Congratulating American Dental Association for Sponsoring Second Annual "Give Kids a Smile" Program

CONGRATULATING AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION FOR SPONSORING SECOND ANNUAL "GIVE KIDS A SMILE" PROGRAM -- (Extensions of Remarks - October 06, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. RICK LARSEN
OF WASHINGTON
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2004

Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 567 which congratulates the American Dental Association for once again successfully administering the Give Kids a Smile program.

The Give Kids a Smile program has worked hard to emphasize the importance of kids' access to high quality dental care. This year's program, held on February 6, 2004, resulted in an estimated one million children receiving dental education, screening and care.

The Give Kids a Smile program highlights not only the importance of children's dental care but also the need to help those that may not have access. Access to dental care for children is a critical component of overall health care. Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease and results in thousands of children experiencing poor eating and sleeping patterns and suffering decreased attention spans at school. Congress must join the American Dental Association in recognizing our role in providing assistance to children in need.

I want to thank the dentists, dental hygienists, dental assistants, and others who volunteered their time during this year's Give Kids a Smile program. In addition to the success of this program, America's dental community deserves our thanks for the services and help they provide year round.