Give Kids a Smile Event Expands Access to Care for Local Families

On Saturday, March 21, Midwestern University’s Dental Institute in Downers Grove hosted its annual Give Kids a Smile event and health fair, bringing together dental care and a range of healthcare disciplines to provide free services, education, and activities for children and families.

A total of 48 patients, ages 5 to 15, received dental screenings and treatment, including exams, X-rays, cleanings, fluoride, fillings, and extractions. In addition, families had access to screenings, education, and resources from speech-language pathology, optometry, occupational therapy, and physical therapy, creating a well-rounded experience.

Kid-Friendly Approach

From the moment families arrived, the event blended care with creativity. Each child received a “passport” to collect stamps as they visited educational tables, played games, and earned prizes along the way. 

Following their screenings, patients were given sensory bags filled with items like noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, and fidget toys to help ease anxiety and improve comfort during treatment.

“The patients and their families seemed genuinely happy to be there, and their warmth and appreciation really stood out,” said Anisha Vora, D.D.S., Clinical Assistant Professor in the College of Dental Medicine–Illinois (CDMI). “Many were already asking if the event would return next year, which speaks volumes about the positive impact it had.”

Learning Through Service

The event also served as a powerful hands-on learning opportunity for Midwestern students.

“Volunteering and giving back are integral parts of being a dental professional,” Dr. Vora said. “Experiences like this help students better understand access-to-care challenges, build empathy, and strengthen their clinical skills, especially when working with pediatric patients and their caregivers.”

For dental medicine students like Sydnie Taylor (CDMI ’26), the experience was especially meaningful.

“I hope patients and their families left with a positive experience surrounding oral health and dental care,” Sydnie said. “From the educational tables to the clinical treatment provided, we worked to create a welcoming environment that encourages lifelong oral health habits.”

Dental medicine student Danica Tuason (CDMI ’26) echoed that sense of purpose and connection.

“It wasn’t just about helping children with their oral health—it was an opportunity to connect, empower, and inspire the community,” Danica said. “One of my favorite moments was learning about Minecraft from the kids while teaching them about oral health. It was a reminder that learning truly goes both ways.”

Both Sydnie and Danica are also pursuing a Master of Public Health degree at Midwestern University, underscoring a shared commitment to public service, prevention, and improving health outcomes in the communities they serve.

A Team Approach to Whole-Person Care

The event’s interprofessional design allowed families to experience care beyond the dental chair, with opportunities to engage in additional screenings and educational activities that highlighted the link between oral health and overall wellness.

“Having multiple specialties working together creates a more comprehensive experience for patients and families,” Dr. Vora said. “It also gives students invaluable exposure to team-based care and how collaboration improves health outcomes.”

Stephen Palatinus, D.D.S., M.P.H., Associate Dean of Clinical Education at the Dental Institute, emphasized the interprofessional impact. “Together we touched many lives and made a difference in our community,” Dr. Palatinus said. “This event brought our University community together in a powerful way – creating a circle of giving that benefits both those receiving care and those providing it.”

As families completed their visits, the event reflected Midwestern University’s commitment to accessible care, education, and community service.