“Give kids a smile”  –2/28/2024

• Participating in the Give Kids a Smile community event during my senior year of dental hygiene studies was an enriching and invaluable experience. Collaborating with professionals from various fields, including vision care specialists and Colgate industry professionals, offered different patient cares on pediatric dental health. Working these diverse professionals not only enhanced team collaboration but also provided the comprehensive needs of young patients through interdisciplinary cooperation.
• During this event, I gained valuable experience into effectively communicating with pediatric patients and their families, each with unique needs and concerns. Interacting with a diverse range of children, including an 8-year-old patient who was brace and displayed friendly communication, was particularly enlightening. I conducted a comprehensive oral examination for him, assessing his overall oral health status and identifying any dental issues or concerns. Subsequently, I provided recommendations for treatment or preventive measures. Additionally, I educated him on good oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing and floss pick techniques. It was gratifying to note that the child already demonstrated proficiency in using a floss holder, indicative of a positive oral hygiene routine. However, he required four sealants on his first molar teeth to prevent cavities. I successfully completed the sealant procedure with the child’s cooperation. This experience significantly bolstered my confidence in engaging with pediatric patients and ensuring a positive and supportive environment conducive to their oral health care needs.
• Engaging in community events like Give Kids a Smile not only offers practical, real-world experience but also reinforces the importance of empathy, communication, and collaboration in the field of dental hygiene. These experiences have solidified my commitment to delivering compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all ages, especially children, as I continue to pursue my career in dental hygiene.