Tri-Cities Kiwanis worked with several area dentists to provide a day of free dental care on September 15, 2012 for children up to age 18. According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, one in four children have untreated tooth decay, making it the most common chronic illness among school-aged children. National data indicates acute dental pain accounts for the loss of 1.6 million school days for U.S. children per year. Dental pain and tooth loss interferes with speech, limits healthy eating, affects school performance and leads to poor self-esteem. Severe oral infection can be extremely toxic and lead to poisoning of the bloodstream, fever, serious illness and even death. A healthy community starts with healthy kids, and healthy smiles! Appointments for Kids' Free Dental Day 2012 were filled by lottery. Parents signed up online, through their child's school, or at one of the sign-up locations listed below. Applications were received and a drawing was held. Parents of selected patients were contacted by phone or email and given the time and location of their child's appointment. 2012 sign-up locations — Thank You!    LOVE, INC., 1106 Fulton, Grand Haven    LOVE, INC., 15181 Cleveland, Nunica    COMERICA BANK, 1102 Robbins Road, Grand Haven    MACATAWA BANK, 15135 Whittaker Way, Grand Haven    MIDWEST PROPERTIES, 700 Washington, Grand Haven    ONLINE at www.kidsfreedentalday.com 2012 Event Coordinator: Randy Van Ittersum Click here to send email, or call (616) 847-5055

2012 Participating Dentists: Dr. Elias J. Achey, Jr., DMD Dr. Jared M. Van Ittersum, DDS Dr. Darren Riopelle, DDS Dr. Leatha J Wood, DDS 2012 Sponsors: