02/26/2025
As part of my Public Health course, under the insightful guidance of Professor Wyche, I had the rewarding opportunity to extend my dental hygiene knowledge beyond the classroom and into the community. One of my most impactful service-learning experiences took place at a local religious institution, where I collaborated with my classmate Faatma to deliver an engaging and informative oral health presentation to a group of young children. Our focus was on educating them about the harmful effects of “sugar bugs” (dental plaque and cavities) and the importance of proper brushing techniques. This population was ideal for such outreach, as the setting was familiar and comfortable for the children, allowing for more meaningful engagement and retention of information.
To enhance participation and motivate the children, we prepared thoughtfully assembled goodie bags that included child-friendly dental care essentials: a toothbrush, travel-sized Crest anticavity toothpaste, giraffe-themed floss picks, fun stickers, and a wind-up chattering teeth toy to keep the experience both educational and enjoyable. This initiative was not only a success in terms of outreach but also a valuable opportunity for me to develop my communication skills, foster trust in underserved populations, and deliver health education in a way that was accessible, culturally appropriate, and impactful. This experience further solidified my passion for preventive care and community outreach—core values I intend to carry with me throughout my dental hygiene career.
Presentation link:
Bye-Bye Sugar-Bugs!
04/29/2025
Once again, I had the privilege of presenting an oral health education session to Pre-K students at a Head Start program on Neptune Avenue in Brooklyn. Using age-appropriate language and the “Tell-Show-Do” technique, I taught the children about the importance of brushing and how to keep their teeth healthy. Their enthusiasm and curiosity made the experience incredibly rewarding. This opportunity helped me strengthen my communication skills with young children and reinforced my passion for promoting early oral health habits in community settings.
