dentistry you get instant gratification. As a provider you’re rewarded immediately with them smiling and saying ‘Oh my God, this looks great. I can smile again.’” Hundreds of dentists have volunteered with Give Back a Smile since it began in 1999, with 600 active dentists providing care today, Fitch said. Dentists are matched up with domestic violence victims in their area who qualify for the program. The AACD completes pre-screenings and it’s the patient’s responsibility to schedule the initial appointment.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TEAM SMILE
Team Smile
Through Team Smile, volunteer dentists spend a day treating children in need at a professional sporting event, like a Kansas City Chiefs football game, Executive Director Lezlie Doyle said. About 300 children are treated during each program, and on average each receives $450 in care. Team Smile turns to volunteers to set up the clinics and to provide screenings, treatment, cleanings and sealants, Doyle said. “Many times this is their first interaction with a dentist,” Doyle
functioning dental clinic so children can receive the care they need is truly rewarding, and makes all the hard work that goes into planning the program worthwhile, Dr. Robbins said. “It is important that new dentists reach out to their community to help,” she said. “The skills we have can serve so many and we can help educate the next generation on the importance of oral health care. Volunteerism helps round out your practice and helps show your patients you are more than just a dentist. You are a person who cares about your
America’s ToothFairy
said of the children who are treated through Team Smile. “We keep the atmosphere fun. We have a DJ playing and appearances from cheerleaders and mascots.” Team Smile began 10 years ago in Kansas City and has since expanded across the nation. Dr. Rebecca Robbins recently started a program with the Cleveland Indians, for example, and in two years 250 volunteer dentists have treated 657 children and donated $300,000 in free dental care. Watching the Terrace Club at Progressive Field turned into a fully
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICA’S TOOTHFAIRY: NATIONAL CHILDREN’S ORAL HEALTH FOUNDATION
Team Smile
first case, treating a patient who had multiple objects thrown at her face, including a boom box. This patient suffered a fractured jaw, which had healed by the time Dr. Tamkin saw her, and presented with fractured teeth, tooth decay and gum disease. Dr. Tamkin spent about five months treating this patient, which included gum surgery, extractions, crowns, bridges, implants and a root canal—at least $10,000 worth of dentistry. “When we handed her the mirror she was in tears. She hugged us and thanked us,” Dr. Tamkin said. “In
community and only good things come out of that.” Dr. Deanna Barden first got involved with Team Smile in dental school, and helped develop ways to incorporate more education into the clinics. Since she became a practicing dentist, she’s volunteered with her local program twice. “When you have a skill set that enables you to help people who are less fortunate, it’s important to do that,” Dr. Barden said. “It’s something you just have to make time for.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 >>
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