RAPID CITY, S.D. — Students in the Douglas School District will have access to free dental care later this month as the Delta Dental Mobile Program returns to local schools.

The program will be on site April 20 through April 24, providing services to students during the school day.

According to Douglas School District, the program is designed to help children who may not have regular access to dental care due to cost, lack of insurance or transportation challenges.

All services are provided at no cost to families, and no insurance is required.

Students will be able to receive exams, cleanings, preventive care and cavity fillings through the mobile clinic, which brings dental professionals directly to the school.

District officials say students with the greatest dental needs will be scheduled first, with additional appointments offered based on availability.

Parents are not required to be present during appointments, but a completed registration packet must be submitted in advance for students to participate.

Families interested in the program can sign up by completing the registration packet, contacting their child’s school or requesting additional information from the district.

School leaders say the program plays an important role in supporting student health, helping remove barriers so children can receive care they might otherwise go without.