This spring, Idaho legislators teamed up with Delta Dental of Idaho to send a record-setting 7,600 free dental care kits to their constituents.

The Bring A Smile To Your District program began in 2011 in an effort to contribute toward the basic dental care needs of citizens throughout Idaho. The first year, 2,000 child and adult toothbrushes were donated to community clinics on behalf of participating lawmakers.

The need is growing.

Over the years, the donated items have expanded from a single toothbrush to a more complete ‘dental care kit,’ which includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and dental care tips inside a reusable pouch.

The organizations receiving the kits range from community clinics to a local food bank or other group that provides similar services. The program also does not exclude people based on their financial situation. It is up to the clinics to distribute the kits how they see fit.

The kits are distributed in a number of ways, including anyone who walks through the door at a participating clinic or using them as a reward for attending a community-sponsored health education seminar.