Athens, GA – [14 August 2025] – In a powerful display of community commitment, Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry, under the leadership of double-board-certified Dr. John Hansford DMD, hosted its annual “Day of Giving Back” on Thursday, July 3, 2025. The event provided free pediatric dental services to children and adults with special needs in Athens and the surrounding areas.
What Happened on July 3rd?
According to local media coverage by the Oconee Enterprise, the clinic welcomed families and provided a full range of complimentary dental care. Attendees received:
- Routine teeth cleanings and preventive sealants
- White or silver crowns, fillings, and extractions
- Space maintainers for pediatric patients
- Anesthesia services including both local anesthesia and general anesthesia for those needing sedation
As reposted by The Oglethorpe Echo, the initiative was part of Dr. John Hansford DMD’s ongoing efforts to eliminate barriers to children’s oral care within underserved and medically fragile communities.
Serving Those Most in Need
Dr. John Hansford’s team prioritized children ages 1–10 and special needs adults, especially those with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down syndrome, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). Many attendees were Medicaid beneficiaries or uninsured families who face systemic barriers in accessing pediatric dental care.
To streamline care, the clinic required prior appointments and parental accompaniment, along with a pre-consultation for patients needing sedation, ensuring safe and personalized care under Dr. Hansford’s oversight.
Community and Volunteers at the Heart
The success of the free dental day is a testament to the dedication of Dr. Hansford’s staff, volunteers, and local students, including pre-dental interns, committed to serving vulnerable populations. A student from the University of Georgia shared that volunteering on past free days alongside Dr. Hansford had been transformative in her journey to dentistry.
Event Highlights
| Feature | Description |
| Scope of Care | Cleanings, sealants, crowns, fillings, extractions, space maintainers |
| Patient Eligibility | Children 1–10, special needs adults, Medicaid or uninsured |
| Access | Appointments by advance scheduling, guardian presence required |
| Comfort & Safety | Local and general anesthesia provided; sedation required consultation |
| Community Involvement | Volunteers, students, and staff supporting event logistics |
Community Response
Dr. Hansford described the event with pride:
“Providing compassionate care at no cost is our way of empowering families and promoting a culture of oral wellness in Athens.”
Local coverage reaffirmed the event’s impact, highlighting positive parental feedback and the joy experienced by young patients—a testament to Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry’s mission of community-centered, trauma-informed care.
Looking Ahead: Spooktacular Smiles 2025
Following the success of July’s event, Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry is gearing up for its “Spooktacular Smiles” free dental day on October 31, 2025. Inspired by the 2024 Halloween-themed outing (well-received for combining festive fun with no-cost care), Dr. Hansford plans to expand the experience.
The upcoming event will again provide free dental treatment while embracing the holiday with costumed fun, games, and family-friendly decor, prioritizing access and anxiety-free care for children and special needs patients.
About Dr. John Hansford, DMD
Dr. John Hansford is a board-certified pediatric dentist and dental anesthesiologist with residencies at Montefiore Medical Center (pediatric dentistry) and Wyckoff Heights Medical Center (anesthesiology). Known for his focus on special needs dentistry and patient safety, Dr. Hansford leads Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry with compassion and clinical excellence.
About Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry
Located in Watkinsville and serving the Athens–Oconee region, Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry provides comprehensive, child-focused care—including sedation dentistry, restorative treatments, and preventive programs. Their practice emphasizes inclusive, education-based outreach, earning trust through events like the annual Free Dental Day and Spooktacular Smiles.
Contact us to learn more or schedule an appointment:
- Phone: (706) 769‑1994
- Email: hello@athensareapediatricdentistry.com
- Website: AthensAreaPediatricDentistry.com