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Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine (SIU SDM) in partnership with Team Smiles and the National Football League’s St. Louis Rams provided dental services to underserved students at Miles D. Davis Elementary School in East St. Louis earlier this month.

SIU SDM students, alumni and faculty, along with local dentists joined together to provide free comprehensive dental care and screening to more than 400 kindergartners. The range of treatment included examinations, cleanings, fluoride treatments, fillings and extractions.

“For most of the kindergartners, this event served as their first dental exam,” said Dr. Toni Roucka, associate dean for academic affairs at SIU SDM. “The exciting and stress-free environment made for an exciting day for both the children and our students.

“Our students gained valuable experience by providing service to a local community in need. Without their dedication to service, this event would not have been possible.”

Throughout the day, all 425 kindergarten students were educated on proper oral health and wellness. Rams mascot Rampage and former wide receiver Brandon Williams attended the event to ease anxiety and explain the importance of oral hygiene and staying healthy.

“The Team Smile concept of adding the sports element to a dental outreach program has proven powerfully successful in bringing children a positive connection to dental health,” said Kellie Reneau, executive director of Team Smile. “The success of the concept has been outstanding, and its growth nothing short of phenomenal.”

The one-day event was successful through the collaboration and partnership of more than 20 oral health care professionals, volunteers and students.

Photo: SIU School of Dental Medicine volunteers visited Miles D. Davis Elementary School in East St. Louis.