February 4, 2009--Las Cruces Sun-News--The New Mexico Dental Association's (NMDA) community of member dentists will promote the importance of oral health care during Give Kids a Smile Day Friday at events and exams scheduled across New Mexico. Pediatric dentist Dr. Joy Trigo is coordinating much of the activities for the NMDA Southwest District Dental Society, which includes Las Cruces and Anthony. Participating dentists here, however, won't limit their donated dental services to Give Kids a Smile Day. They hope to reach over 3,500 kids throughout the month of February in support of Children's Dental Health Month. More than 20 dentists in the Las Cruces and Anthony area will be conducting free screenings and dental care presentations to first graders at local elementary schools over the next few weeks. Dozens of NMDA dentists from around the state have organized a variety of activities, presentations and extended office hours for this year's national Give Kids a Smile Day. Give Kids a Smile Day was first held in 2003 by the American Dental Association and designed to provide children with free dental education and preventative care for tooth decay and other disorders. Many dentists will be giving away free toothbrushes, toothpaste and other oral health care products to the kids they will see throughout the day. "The New Mexico Dental Association is proud to support Give Kids a Smile Day, and pleased that so many of our members are donating their time and talents to help kids in need," said Mark Moores, NMDA executive director. "But a one-day volunteer event isn't a cure all. Our state needs to do more. That is why dental visits for all children are a component of our overall Brighter Smiles for New Mexico legislative campaign this year." The NMDA is currently working with state lawmakers to raise awareness and suggest solutions to improve access to oral health.