Transforming Young Smiles: Dental Care for Denver’s Kids in Need!
Picture this: on any given day in metro Denver, a vibrant team is hard at work in local schools, providing free dental care and teaching children the essentials of oral hygiene—even for those baby teeth destined to fall out soon. This is the heart and soul of a remarkable organization dedicated to making a difference.
For over a century, this organization has been on a mission to eliminate the barriers to oral health care for our community’s children and families. Each year, they deliver vital dental services to nearly 6,000 kids, including free screenings, fluoride treatments, and molar care at more than 100 schools across the Denver area through their innovative Chopper Topper program.
This incredible organization also caters to around 700 children each year at two dedicated oral health care centers, offering affordable care for uninsured and low-income families.
“Our goal is to foster a lifetime of healthy oral habits,” explains Erin Breen, the director of development. “Every appointment is more than just a visit; it’s a chance to set a child on the right path toward health.”
In times of financial strain, dental health often falls by the wayside, leaving families uncertain about how to prioritize their children’s needs. Lisa Phillips, board chair and pediatric dentist, emphasizes, “What we’re doing is instilling a culture of dental education in families who might think this care isn’t for them.”
As a proud recipient of a Denver Post Season to Share grant, this organization is committed to bringing oral health care into focus and dispelling misunderstandings surrounding children’s dental health. “Some believe that since baby teeth will eventually fall out, they don’t need attention,” says Breen. “But neglected teeth can have significant repercussions, even leading to painful decay.”
“Building trust and providing education is our priority, and it’s a gradual process,” Breen adds. “We invest time into one-on-one conversations to ensure families feel comfortable and welcome.”
An exciting initiative is the KIND Hearts Promotora program, which cultivates community leaders who bridge the gap between the organization and their neighborhoods through educational sessions and apprenticeships. Each year, Promotoras engage with about 3,000 community members, amplifying awareness and access to dental health.
Since launching in June, the apprentice program has welcomed seven individuals training to become dental assistants and community health care workers, equipped to serve their neighborhoods effectively.
“Many families in our community feel hesitant about approaching doctors and dentists, often due to paperwork and medical jargon,” Breen explains. “With our Promotoras, there’s no pressure—they are here simply to help the kids, making it easier for families to connect with us.”
Kids in Need of Dentistry
Address: 7190 Colorado Blvd., Commerce City
In operation since: 1912
Number of employees: 21
Number of volunteers: Varies, as needed
Annual budget: $1.7 million
Number of clients served: 9,456
