Orthodontist takes part in TeamSmile
CRANBERRY TWP — An orthodontist with a practice in the township took part in an event this summer where several hundred children from the region got free dental care.
The Pittsburgh Pirates hosted the first TeamSmile event for Pittsburgh at PNC Park July 18.
Dr. Stephanie Rhoads was one of several doctors who volunteered to provide free exams, cleanings and dental work for children, some of whom had never been to the dentist before. Members of her staff at Rhoads Orthodontic Specialist also helped out.
More than 100 volunteers came together for the event, according to the Team Smile website. They provided $96,835 worth of care to 248 children, including 90 fillings, 73 sealants and 18 extractions. Some of the children came with day care or school groups, but they were all from low-income families.
Rhoads said some of the children had never visited the dentist before and didn’t know about basic dental hygiene.
Even with the advent of the Affordable Care Act, many families still can’t afford to visit the dentist on a regular basis, don’t have transportation or need better education about oral health, Rhoads said.
She said she stressed with the children that they need to brush their teeth twice a day for at least two minute each time. She also advised them to avoid having too many sugary drinks like soda or sports drinks.
