More Than a Cleaning: Witnessing the Power of Access to Care

“As I assisted the second year students at the Rose Park dental clinic, I was able to learn so much. The patients receiving care at this clinic are part of underserved communities and have limited resources to dental care. Many of the patients had not had cleanings in years or ever. This experience was so rewarding because not only was I able to learn so much as I observed and assisted senior students, but I got to see these patients receive care that they really needed but weren't able to get. One experience specifically stood out to me. There was a young man that came in for a deep cleaning. He had a mental disability that played a role in his poor oral hygiene and lack of home care. He had a lot of calculus covering all surfaces of his lower anterior teeth. I learned so much watching this cleaning, but the best part was the patient's response. We were able to take a picture when half his mouth was cleaned and half was not. He was so shocked by the result and so happy and grateful to have received this care that he needed. Overall, this experience was so educational and rewarding. I am very excited to be able to participate in this rotation when I become a senior student. As we continue to participate in these service-learning activities/events, my passion for oral health, especially in our underserved communities, becomes much stronger and prominent.”

- Olivia Arona