Students in four St. Lawrence County school districts will have access to free dental screenings this week.

The Community Health Center of the North Country has partnered with Colgate’s “Bright Smiles, Bright Futures” program to provide free dental screenings to elementary school children across the county In response to the pressing oral health care shortage in St. Lawrence County.

St. Lawrence County faces a significant dental care access challenge, with approximately one dentist for every 3,000 residents. This shortage is even more pronounced for Medicaid

recipients, who often struggle to find providers accepting their insurance.

This week, the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures mobile dental van, equipped with child-sized dental chairs, will visit various elementary schools throughout the county. Licensed dental professionals will perform free dental screenings and provide oral health education. Children requiring further dental care will receive referrals to appropriate providers.

The events will take place Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, April 15, 16, and 17.

• April 15:

Kennedy Elementary, Ogdensburg, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Morristown Elementary, 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

• April 16

Madill Elementary, Ogdensburg, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Heuvelton Central School 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

• April 17

Lisbon Elementary 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.