[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 125 (Wednesday, October 6, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1815]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




CONGRATULATING AMERICAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION FOR SPONSORING SECOND ANNUAL 
                     ``GIVE KIDS A SMILE'' PROGRAM

                                 ______
                                 

                            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.

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