SNDA Educates Middle-Schoolers at Fenway Park
Students from the GSDM chapter of the Student National Dental Association (SNDA), along with faculty sponsor Clinical Instructor Dr. Corinna Culler, reached out to middle-school age children at the annual Middle-O event held at Fenway Park. The event took place on September 6 and eight members of the SNDA attended.
When asked what the number one thing the volunteers emphasized to the middle school students in attendance, Wyatt Traina DMD 14 said, “Diet recommendations and the benefits of oral hygiene were the hot topics.”
Brittney Barrows DMD 14 added, “Considering the age group, we focused on handing out mouth guards with education pamphlets, and awareness on complications of piercings in the oral cavity.” She continued, “We also took this opportunity to speak on issues outside of basic oral hygiene instruction, and exposed them to other topics that were relevant to their age group. The students and parents alike were all very receptive."
The volunteers also made sure to speak to the parents in attendance.
Barrows said, “It’s important for parents to know that middle school is an optimal time to impress good oral health habits on their children. Emphasis on the importance of oral care will perpetuate healthy habits that last throughout adulthood. The transition from child to teenager is the perfect time to instill these values. This is what makes Middle O such a great event for GSDM to participate in!”
Traina also said, “I think it is important for parents to make sure they keep their children going to the dentist on a regular basis. It is just as important as regular doctor visits.”