Spirit of India Volunteering for Oral Health

This past Sunday, members of the Smile Squad visited Medford for the annual Spirit of India celebration hosted by the United India Association of New England. Our volunteers brought great energy and enthusiasm to the event. The students engaged with children of all ages, from toddlers under 3yo to children over 14yo, using colorful puppets and giant toothbrushes to demonstrate proper brushing technique and teach them about oral health. Parents and children were eager to learn oral hygiene tips and we reinforced the importance of brushing and flossing. To support these conversations, we distributed free toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and stickers, including donations from Dr. Neela Gandhi. Students also had the opportunity to hand out their student business cards and connect with members of the community interested in receiving dental care at TUSDM, strengthening ties between the dental school and the community.
   
This event was a meaningful opportunity to combine oral health education with community outreach. The interactive teaching style helped children stay engaged while also giving parents practical tips they could bring home. Our volunteers left with a deeper appreciation for the roles we play as clinicians, and also as educators and advocates who can inspire positive habits early in life.
  

Thank you to the student volunteers: Valquiria De Laurenzio (President) D26, Erica Perry (Secretary) D26, Ripple Garg (Treasurer) DIS 26, Yash Brahmbhatt D27, Sophia Patel D27, Michelle Zak D27, George Azar D27, Chandnee Puri D28, Sruthy Emmanuel D28, D-Lo Sittambalam D28, Rachel Ivy D28, Andrew Carman D28, Starlette Peng D28, Eric Swenson D29; And to our incredible faculty advisor and founder Dr. Wallach.