Even More Reasons to Smile: GKAS Sees Record-Setting Participation

February 15, 2023

Group of dentists with young patient dressed as Spiderman

For many young children it can be intimidating to sit in a dental chair for the first time. Knowing this, Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) students created a fun and engaging atmosphere for children to learn about positive oral health habits during the annual Give Kids a Smile (GKAS) event held during Children’s Dental Health Month on Saturday, February 11. More than 60 young patients ages one to 17 received free dental care—a record-setting number.

Student organizers Adam Yang, DMD25, Jake Cantrell, DMD25, Anita Nasseri, DMD25, and Jen Candiano, DMD25, helped plan and promote the successful event working closely with faculty and student volunteers.

Four students standing together wearing crimson scrubs — GKAS student organizers Adam Yang, DMD25, Jake Cantrell, DMD25, Anita Nasseri, DMD25, and Jen Candiano, DMD25

“This was a great opportunity to practice inter-professional care while giving back to our community,” said Nasseri. “We were able to provide free, quality dental care to kids and educate them about the importance of oral health.”

HSDM students served as dental providers, assistants, and oral health care education volunteers. Their work was overseen by HSDM faculty, Harvard Dental Center staff, and Advanced Graduate Education (AGE) residents.

While routine dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays were provided to all patients, orthodontic consults were made available through HSDM’s orthodontic residents and faculty. Several patients were also fitted for custom-made mouthguards through HSDM’s Operation Mouthguard initiative. The program provides free mouthguards to young athletes in the Boston area who might not otherwise have access to this imperative protection to reduce the risk of sports-related oral injuries.

Large group of people standing on steps of HSDM For the first time, students from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene program also participated in GKAS, working with HSDM students and faculty members to assist patients. MCPHS students facilitated the oral health education stations, instructing young patients on how to brush their teeth and floss properly. In addition to learning about positive oral health habits, a face painting station and goodie bags were also included in the festivities.

“It’s nice to provide children who may not otherwise receive regular dental checkups a positive experience in a dental setting,” said Cantrell. “The goal is to help families find a dental home whether it’s at HSDM or another local clinic. Events like these build relationships within our dental community while helping address local access issues.”