Presenter: Mina Shahmirzadi, Finance & Information Systems, Global Public Health Scholars
For my practicum project I had an internship at Smile Arts dentistry in Greenbelt Maryland. I was shadowing and observing the dentists and hygienists who work there, as well as helping to set up and clean up for procedures. I also was able to get some experience working at the front desk and handling different insurance policies. I was able to observe (and assist when allowed) with different procedures such as cavity fillings, root canals, extractions, and crowns. I was able to observe many challenges in the dental sector such as language barriers and a lack of education.
This was a great presentation! Dental insurance can be very costly, which can lead to people not being able to receive the necessary dental care. Also, those who might not have received a high level of education might not know the importance of dental care. It is awesome to see people helping those who can not afford dental insurance make sure they are getting their check-ups and keeping good oral health. One question I have is, what are some ways you would help others learn the importance of coming in for regular check-ups?
I really like your project and the insight you gained from it.
While working what disparities in oral health did you notice between patients of different socioeconomic status? Also, do you have any suggestions for how dentists can reduce "single use medical equipment" waste?
Thanks Meredith! Smile Arts does not specifically host any events outside of the office to educate people on oral health. However, they do provide resources on their website that inform individuals on the importance of oral health, while also providing them information on their practice. They also make sure to educate all of their patients on the subject of oral health, and provide them with take home resources that they are encouraged to share with friends and family members.
I loved your presentation! My uncle is a dentist, so oral health has always been emphasized in my family so much so that I didn't realize it is an area that is ignored or forgotten by so many people of the general population. This was really interesting! Does Smile Arts do any work in the Greenbelt area to educate people on oral health?