They may have come in without a smile, but they certainly left with one.

Twenty-four children ages 5 to 12 were treated to free dental care Friday during the second annual “Give Kids a Smile Day” at Lifetime Dental Care in Hays.

“They got a checkup and cleaning and then any necessary restorative work,” said Jana Lowe, Lifetime Dental Care CFO.

“We also give the kids toothbrushes and toothpaste to take home, and talk about how important it is to brush their teeth regularly.”

Kortney Khan, Hays,  brought in her two oldest children, who were both seeing the dentist for the first time.

“As a nurse, I know how important dental health is to your overall general physical health,” she said.

Khan and Lowe both pointed out it’s also a good idea to limit snacks and sugar intake, and adults should set the example.

“Young children won’t have access to pop and sugary snacks if parents don’t buy that stuff,” said Lowe.

Nearly $11,000 worth of dentistry work was performed Friday by Dr. Jeff Lowe and his staff.