Free children’s dental screenings in Collier County are happening on Feb. 28 at Nichols Community Health Center in Naples. Hosted by the Florida Department of Health in Collier County (DOH-Collier), the second annual Collier County Children’s Dental Day offers quick, no-cost checkups to support your child’s oral and overall health. No appointment is needed, and a parent or legal guardian must be present.
What is Collier County Children’s Dental Day?
Collier County Children’s Dental Day is a one-day community event focused on pediatric oral health. Local dental professionals volunteer their time to provide basic screenings for children at no cost to families.
- Who: Children accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
- What: Basic pediatric dental screenings
- When: Feb. 28, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
- Where: Nichols Community Health Center, 12655 Collier Blvd., Naples
- Cost: Free, no appointment required
The goal is to catch potential problems early, answer your questions, and connect families with ongoing dental care if needed.
Why are free children’s dental screenings important?
Oral health is closely tied to overall health, especially for growing kids. Cavities, misaligned teeth, and dental trauma can affect how children eat, sleep, and concentrate in school.
Pediatric dentistry focuses on preventing early decay, guiding proper growth, and building healthy habits that can last a lifetime. A quick screening can:
- Spot issues early before they become painful or expensive to treat
- Identify areas of concern such as visible cavities or injuries
- Reinforce daily habits like brushing, flossing, and limiting sugary snacks
Events like this make it easier for families to access care, especially if you haven’t yet found a regular pediatric dentist.
Who is offering the free dental screenings?
DOH-Collier partners with several local organizations to make Collier County Children’s Dental Day possible. These partnerships help ensure children receive quality screenings and information from trained professionals, all in a welcoming, family-friendly setting.
How should families plan for the event?
You don’t need an appointment for the free children’s dental screenings in Collier County, but a little planning will make your visit smoother.
- Arrive between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. to allow time for check-in and the screening.
- Bring your child’s parent or legal guardian. A responsible adult must be present for each child.
- Prepare your questions. Think about any dental concerns you’ve noticed, such as tooth pain, sensitivity, or difficulty chewing.
- Plan for follow-up. If the dentist recommends additional care, ask how to schedule a full appointment.
For more details about the event, you can visit the Florida Department of Health in Collier County’s website.