Give Kids A Smile masterpieces showcase growing program

July 30, 2014

San Juan, Puerto Rico This February, about 1,000 kids with special needs and their families
from across Puerto Rico had lots of reasons to smile thanks to a growing Give Kids A Smile program
that includes interactive oral health education, an art competition and exhibition, exams and follow-
up care.
In 2014, more than 220 volunteers provided exams and education simultaneously at 11 sites
organized through the University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine. General dentists,
specialists, third- and fourth-year dental students, residents, faculty, predental students, nutrition
students, dental assisting students and staff volunteered in interprofessional teams at the dental
school, community health centers and schools around the island.
Now in its ninth year, the Puerto Rico GKAS program this year focused on serving special needs
children. Children from a variety of organizations participated, including the San Gabriel School for
the Deaf, Instituto Loaiza Cordero Para Nios Ciegos, Down Syndrome Foundation, SER de
Puerto Rico, Pediatric Hospital of Puerto Rico, Instituto Psicopedaggico de Puerto Rico and
other schools. Parents also received education on the benefits of good oral health and how to help
and supervise the oral health care of their children.
Continuing a tradition in Puerto Rico, the 2014 GKAS included an art contest and exposition for
children, from preschool to sixth grade, who created drawings showcasing the importance of good
oral health. A group of artists from the local Down syndrome foundation also displayed and sold their
artistic creations.
"Organizing hands-on activities that educate children and their caregivers on how to maintain good
oral health and its benefits are key for the reduction of dental caries," said Dr. Ana N. Lpez,
director of community dentistry at the dental school. "This activity is also an excellent way to
compliment the education of the future health professionals, by giving them the opportunity to
engage in community service learning through interprofessional collaborations. This is one of the
many activities the dental school gets involved in as part of its mission and strategic plan."
Volunteers provided exams, fluoride varnish applications and education. Children with urgent needs
were referred to the dental school clinic or a local dentist for dental care. Kids also enjoyed puppet
shows; hands-on preventive care activities like brushing and flossing targeted to the special needs of
participating children; lessons on the importance of exercise, balanced nutrition, choosing healthy
beverages and regular dental care to prevent caries; and a nutritious, oral-health friendly meal.
"It is important to include special needs patients and to acknowledge their particular needs, to send
the message that as a profession we educate our students to work with all patients regardless of
their needs," Dr. Lpez said. "By working with these children and educating their caregivers, our
students are also exposed to the needs of a variety of patients. As an academic institution we
encourage voluntary and community work for all areas of the community, especially those more
vulnerable and with less access to care. We also encourage the treatment of a diverse population."
The University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine organizes the annual program
http://www.coursehero.com/file/1309632/dentalmag07/ with support from the ADA Give Kids A Smile
program sponsors, Colgate and Henry Schein.
For more information about the ADA's Give Kids A Smile program or to start your own program,
please visit the GKAS Web page.