Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation Smile Club
Exciting Update For the Smile Club
First established in 2016 as a community project, the Smile Club has been delivering preventive dental care to central Wisconsin youth in need of a dental home. Following closure due to the global pandemic, when it was safe to resume dental care, the Smile Club reopened and has continued to grow its founding commitment to youth oral health in central Wisconsin.
Now in the fourth year since reopening the Smile Club, Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation and the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County have begun exploring opportunities to further strengthen our shared commitment to children and teen’s oral and overall health. This includes securing another operator who could expand upon the Smile Club’s current success in delivering preventive dental care. We are excited about initial conversations that have occurred and will share more information in the near future.
What is the Smile Club?
The Smile Club is a one-chair dental clinic located inside the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County’s Berard Center. Smile Club serves children who are in need of a dental home, have no insurance, or have Medicaid coverage, all at no charge to families (Medicaid is billed for those who are eligible).
At the Smile Club, kids will be seen by Miss Shannon, a dental hygienist, for oral health education and preventive services including cleanings, fluoride, sealants, and x-rays. If needed, kids will also be seen by a volunteer dentist who donates their time and talent to provide dental exams at no charge to the Club kids or their families. If the dentist determines the child is in need of restorative care, there is a referral program in place to get the kids access to that care within the community.
How can I sign my child(ren) up for Smile Club dental services?
A Boys & Girls Club membership is not required to receive Smile Club dental services, however membership is encouraged.
To make an appointment or inquire further, please contact Shannon Klingforth, Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation’s Supervisor, Dental Care & Outreach.
Email: smileclub@deltadentalwi.com
Phone: 715-204-1180
Why participate in the Toothbrushing Program?
Regular toothbrushing is important for both children and adults because it removes bacteria and plaque that cause tooth decay and gum disease. It is recommended that everyone brush their teeth twice a day – every morning and before bed. Kids might forget to brush their teeth, but the Toothbrushing Program is here to help keep smiles healthy!
The program will provide a valuable tool for reinforcing good oral health and help reduce painful cavities. Each child will also learn the importance of brushing their teeth.
- Each child will receive their own toothbrush.
- Children will brush their teeth after breakfast or morning snack in groups.
- Each toothbrush will be sanitized daily in -the Boys & Girls Club’s UV sanitizer.
Be sure to sign-up for the Toothbrushing Program through MyClubHub.
