A $1,000 grant from the local Wal-Mart will benefit dental health needs for children in the community without dental care.

“The Dawson County Health Department Dental Clinic is pleased to have the opportunity to offer a limited number of free dental evaluation exams to low income children, up to age 21, who do not have resources for dental care,” said Janelle Wilson, office manager of the Dawson County Health Department.

The visits will be provided courtesy of the grant from Wal-Mart, which was requested by Larry Anderson, chairman of the Dawson County Board of Health.

“We are so thankful for the grant and hope to help as many children as we can,” Wilson added.

According to Wilson, oral health is important to the health and well-being of children, as well as being a vital component of health throughout life.

Those interested in applying for one of these grant-funded evaluation exams for their child may obtain an application form from the receptionist at the health department.

To be eligible, the patient must not have an established relationship with another dentist as evidenced by not having seen a dentist within the past two years.

Children with Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids or private dental insurance are not eligible for these grant-fundedexams. Income limits do apply, and proof of income must be presented with the application.

The Health Department Clinic provides dental screenings and oral examinations, X-rays, teeth cleanings, fluoride treatment, sealants on permanent molars, restoration of teeth with cavities (fillings), extractions of non-restorable teeth, treatment of oral infections, and referrals for hospital pediatric dental treatment, as well as education to children and their parents on preventing dental disease.

All parents are strongly encouraged to schedule regular dental care for their children.

Also, the health department reminds participants of Medicaid and PeachCare, including WellCare and AmeriGroup, that routine dental cleanings and fillings are covered by these plans, and that dental care for their children may be obtained at any time through the Health Department Dental Clinic.

Patients without insurance can also be seen on a reduced fee basis.

The Dawson County Health Department Dental Clinic is located at 54 Hwy. 53 East in Dawsonville, and operates Monday and Wednesday. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (706) 265-2611.