A reason to smile

D3 Katelyn Kennedy with two athletes Photos courtesy Dr. Danette McNew

TAMBCD volunteers team up to provide dental screenings for some special athletes

The long holiday weekend didn’t keep this team of students, faculty and family volunteers from giving their time. During the Texas Special Olympics held May 24-25 at the University of Texas at Arlington, athletes experienced more than just good sportsmanship and the rewards of healthy competition — they also received dental screenings and education as part of the Special Olympics’ Healthy Athletes program.

Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry volunteers helped both days, and this group, which provided screenings May 25, saw upward of 150 athletes. Dr. Katie Julien, clinical assistant professor in orthodontics, says she was struck at the range of dental needs and care among the athletes.

“There were some people with pristine hygiene and no fillings, and others with only root tips remaining,” Julien says. “Every athlete was unique, but they were all very happy, excited to be there and thrilled to receive a free Shrek spin brush!”

BACK ROW: Kathryn McKean; Dr. Danette McNew, clinical assistant professor; D2 Jose Aldana; D3 Niekia Franklin; Dr. Katie Julien, clinical assistant professor in orthodontics, second to right; and Joy Parker, '03, '06 and Healthy Athletes, Healthy Smiles director, far right. FRONT ROW: Katie Parker; Kennedy; and Paige Parker.