NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jul 21, 2026--
More than 400 children from youth organizations across Middle Tennessee recently received free dental screenings, dental care, oral health education, new shoes, books, and more during the fifth annual Kids Dental Day at First Horizon Park. Hosted by Delta Dental of Tennessee, Nashville Sounds, and cityCURRENT, bringing together healthcare providers, nonprofits and volunteers from across the community to help children start the school year healthy, confident and ready to learn.
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"The Nashville Sounds are proud to host Kids Dental Day each year because it's one of the best examples of what a community partnership can accomplish," said Adam English, general manager and chief operating officer of the Nashville Sounds. "Watching hundreds of children fill First Horizon Park - not just for baseball, but to receive important healthcare services and resources - is incredibly meaningful for our organization."
Tooth decay remains the most common chronic disease of childhood and can affect a child's health, attendance and academic success. According to the CDC's 2024 Oral Health Surveillance Report, half of children ages 6 to 9 have experienced cavities in their primary or permanent teeth. Also, according to Delta Dental’s 2026 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report, 67% of parents are concerned dental issues will impact their child’s confidence in their appearance. Events like Kids Dental Day help remove barriers to preventive care by bringing dental services directly to families in a welcoming, community-centered environment.
"This event is proof of what can happen when an entire community comes together around a shared purpose," said Jeff Ballard, President and CEO of Delta Dental of Tennessee. "Kids Dental Day has grown tremendously over the past five years because our partners continue to show up for children and families. Together, we're improving access to care, building healthy habits and helping hundreds of children begin the school year with the confidence that comes from a healthy smile."
Children arrived throughout the day from nearly 20 summer camps and community organizations across Middle Tennessee. They received free dental screenings, dental cleanings as needed, oral health education, hygiene supplies, snacks and a free book from the Book'em Book Bus. Health care providers also administered silver diamine fluoride (SDF), a non-invasive treatment that helps stop the progression of cavities when appropriate.
New this year, Soles4Souls partnered with Kids Dental Day to provide every participating child with a brand-new pair of athletic shoes and socks, helping families prepare for the upcoming school year.
"A new pair of shoes may seem simple, but it can have a lasting impact on a child's confidence as they walk into a new school year," said Buddy Teaster, president and CEO of Soles4Souls. "We're honored to join Kids Dental Day and partner with organizations that understand supporting children means caring for their whole well-being."
Neighborhood Health and Meharry clinicians, students and volunteers provided dental care throughout the event.
"Prevention is one of the most powerful tools we have to improve children's long-term health," said Dr. Michele Blackledge-Polk, Director of Oral Health at Neighborhood Health. "Kids Dental Day allows us to meet families where they are, identify concerns early and provide treatment that can make an immediate difference. It's a wonderful example of what happens when healthcare and community partners work together to improve children's lives."
The day also featured educational activities from community partners, including the American Heart Association, Nashville PBS and Adventure Science Center. Volunteers from cityCURRENT partners and other organizations helped guide children through the event, distribute books and supplies, and ensure every family had a positive experience.
“We had so many amazing companies and organizations participating,” said Jeremy Park, CEO of cityCURRENT and chair of Delta Dental of Tennessee’s Smile180 Foundation. “About 250 volunteers came out and around 400 kids were served with dental screenings and cleanings, new socks and shoes, books, food, and more. It was an awesome day of impact and a perfect example of collaboration in our community!”
Additional partners helped make the event possible behind the scenes. Signature Transportation provided transportation for participating youth organizations from across Middle Tennessee. Kroger donated snacks and beverages for volunteers and participating children, while Henry Schein Cares donated dental supplies, Colgate Bright Smiles Bright Futures® Program provided hygiene products and Hope Smiles provided dental equipment.
To learn more about Kids Dental Day, visit KidsDentalDay.com.
Delta Dental of Tennessee employee Gina Conrad keeps her dental hygienist license current to be able to volunteer at events just like Kids Dental Day.
