Local dentists will give kids a reason to smile beginning Friday.

They will be offering free dental care for kids who qualify.

In St. Augustine, Dr. Matthew McLellan will lead a group of volunteer dental professionals as they give free care to children. They will provide free oral exams, cleanings, x-rays and fluoride treatments to kids ages 5 to 12 years old. The location will be at 1100-2 South Ponce de Leon Boulevard on Friday beginning at 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you would like more information, call the office at 904-829-9399 ext. 102.

In Duval County, The Jacksonville Dental Society will host an event at the Sulzbacher Center from 7:30 to 4:30 p.m.  Call 904-394-8060 for an appointment. As a special bonus, Mr. Biggs from the Jacksonville Giants will be on hand to entertain the children and refreshments will be served.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one in four children, aged two and eleven years old has untreated cavities in their baby teeth.