Founded in 2002, Kool Smiles is a network of local dental offices dedicated to expanding access to high quality dental care for children and families in underserved communities. In addition to accepting most insurance plans, Kool Smiles is proud to offer care to families seeking a State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) or Medicaid dentist. Kool Smiles also provides oral health education programs through partnerships with community schools and organizations. The alarming state of oral health today is the foundation upon which Kool Smiles has built its mission and vision. Despite the United States’ status as the wealthiest country, the U.S. Surgeon General concluded that oral care is the #1 unmet healthcare need for children. Over 50 percent of 5- to 9-year-old children have at least one cavity or filling, and that proportion increases to 78 percent among 17-year-olds. Oral health is essential to the general health and well-being of children and plays a critical role in their ability to succeed in school and acquire positive self-esteem. To learn more about your options for children's dentistry or to find a local Kool Smiles office, please visit http://www.MyKoolSmiles.com.