Free dental care for kids

Dentists like to think that they can put a beautiful smile on every face by promoting good dental hygiene. Dr. Thomas Livingstone of North Canaan is determined to put a smile not only on the faces of his pediatric patients but also on the faces of their parents by taking part in the national Give Kids a Smile Day. Dental care for any parents already struggling to meet their expenses can get free dental care for their children at Livingstone’s office in North Canaan. All they have to do is call ahead and make an appointment.The free dental day is Friday, March 2, with appointments between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Of course, school is still in session during those hours but Livingstone promises that visits should only last an hour or so.More time will be needed for restorative work such as fillings, of course. But under normal circumstances, when a cavity is discovered, a follow-up appointment is made for the work to get done. On Give Kids a Smile Day, Livingstone will do the work right away that day.Most children, though, will just need the basics of an annual checkup: an examination, a cleaning, toothbrush instruction, fluoride treatments to help protect the teeth and X-rays.Appointments are available for children from birth to age 18 who live in the nearby towns in Connecticut, New York and Massachusetts. For some youngsters, this might be the first time they’ve ever been seen by a dentist and hygienist.Livingstone has years of experience working with nervous newbies. If his soothing manner isn’t enough, though, his two Pomeranian/poodle (Olive and Lucy) are there to offer additional comfort and distraction. The children can even hold the dogs in their laps during the appointment.Parents are sometimes nervous, too, about bringing in a child, especially if they had bad experiences in the dental chair when they were young. Some parents might also feel some anxiety about bringing a child in who has never been seen before.Don’t be, Livingstone urges. The important thing is that every child get a chance to have his or her teeth and mouth seen and cared for, whenever possible.“Don’t be shy to call, we want to see you,” Livingstone said.Proof of income is not necessary. No financial paperwork is required. “We won’t turn anyone away,” Livingstone said.Appointments are necessary. Slots that day are limited so parents shouldn’t hesitate to call as soon as possible. To make an appointment, phone the office at 860-824-0751.

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