Watertown, SD: Delta Dental Mobile Program Provides $35,000 in Free Dental Care to 54 Children
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - More than 50 Watertown children received critical dental care last week as the Delta Dental Mobile Program wrapped up a five‑day community visit, providing over $35,000 worth of services to families.
The mobile clinic operated in Watertown from September 21–25, serving 54 kids and providing exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and restorative procedures at no cost to families.
High Rates of Tooth Decay Identified
According to the program’s report, 30% of children screened had tooth decay, with 72 total teeth identified as needing treatment. • 12 children had never seen a dentist before. • 4 children reported tooth pain. • 3 missed school in the past year due to dental issues.
Care Delivered in Watertown
Delta Dental provided: • 109 diagnostic procedures (exams, X‑rays) — $6,272 value • 145 preventive procedures (cleanings, sealants, fluoride) — $16,771 value • 55 restorative procedures (fillings, crowns, extractions) — $12,049 value
Staff placed 146 sealants, helping reduce cavity risk by up to 80% for several years.
Each child also received a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and instruction on proper oral hygiene.
Who Was Served
The report shows the majority of children seen in Watertown faced financial or access barriers: • 72% had no insurance • 37% drank sweetened beverages daily • 83% brushed daily • 20% of households reported incomes under $10,000
Children served ranged from toddlers to young adults, ages 0–21. Demographics included 75% white, 10% American Indian, 6% Asian, 6% Hispanic/Latino, and 3% other backgrounds.
Program Impact
Delta Dental’s Mobile Program continues to partner with communities across South Dakota to provide preventive and restorative care to children who may not otherwise have access. Watertown’s visit is part of an ongoing statewide effort to reduce childhood dental disease and improve long‑term health outcomes.
More information is available at Delta Dental of South Dakota.
