Fortis Institute in Scranton Helps ‘Give Kids a Smile’ – Scranton Times-Tribune
Fortis Institute in Scranton recently took a compassionate step to improve children’s oral health by participating in the Give Kids a Smile initiative, as reported by the Scranton Times-Tribune. This nationwide campaign aims to provide free dental care to underprivileged children, ensuring they receive necessary treatments and education to maintain healthy smiles.
What is ‘Give Kids a Smile’?
Give Kids a Smile (GKAS) is a program launched by the American Dental Association (ADA) in 2003. It offers free oral health services to children from low-income families who might otherwise lack access to proper dental care. The initiative mobilizes dental professionals, educational institutions, and community organizations to raise awareness and reduce barriers related to children’s dental health.
Key Goals of Give Kids a Smile:
- Provide free dental checkups, cleanings, and treatments.
- Educate children and families on maintaining oral hygiene.
- Prevent future dental diseases through early interventions.
- Promote community awareness about pediatric dental care disparities.
Fortis Institute’s Role in Scranton’s Give Kids a Smile Program
Fortis Institute in Scranton, a recognized career training school focused on healthcare education, actively contributed to the 2024 Give Kids a Smile event. By involving its dental assisting students and faculty in this local initiative, Fortis played a critical role in delivering impactful dental care services to children in the community.
How Fortis Institute Participated:
- Student involvement: Dental assisting students provided chairside support, guided children through dental hygiene routines, and helped with intake screenings.
- Faculty oversight: Experienced instructors supervised all clinical procedures ensuring safety and quality coordination.
- Community outreach: Fortis helped promote the event through local media and social platforms, attracting more families in need.
Benefits of Fortis Institute’s Participation
Fortis Institute’s active engagement with Give Kids a Smile created numerous benefits for both the community and the Institute’s students:
- Health impact: Hundreds of children received free diagnostic services and preventive care that would otherwise be unattainable.
- Hands-on experience: Students gained invaluable real-world clinical skills by working on active dental care cases.
- Community goodwill: The Institute strengthened its reputation as a community-focused educational center committed to public health.
Case Study: A Smile Transformed in Scranton
One memorable success involved eight-year-old Emma, a local Scranton resident whose family couldn’t afford regular dental checkups. Through the Give Kids a Smile event supported by Fortis in Scranton:
- Emma received a comprehensive dental exam and cleaning.
- She was treated for early-stage cavities before they worsened.
- She was provided with tooth brushing kits and oral care education tailored to children.
- Her parents gained information on affordable ongoing dental care resources.
Emma’s story is one of many highlighting the positive community impact of such programs.
Practical Tips for Parents to Maintain Children’s Dental Health
While initiatives like Give Kids a Smile provide crucial short-term relief, maintaining good oral health at home is equally important. Here are some practical dental care tips for parents and caregivers:
- Brush teeth twice daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush appropriate for your child’s age.
- Floss regularly: Start flossing between teeth as soon as two teeth touch.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks: Reduce candy, soda, and juice intake to prevent cavity formation.
- Regular dental checkups: Schedule biannual dentist visits even if there are no obvious problems.
- Encourage healthy habits: Teach children to rinse after meals and avoid thumb sucking.
Fortis Institute in Scranton: Educational Excellence and Community Service
The Fortis Institute is widely recognized for its commitment to providing high-quality healthcare education, including programs in dental assisting, medical assisting, and nursing. Its involvement in community events such as the Give Kids a Smile initiative illustrates how the Institute fosters a culture of service and practical learning among its students.
Programs Offered at Fortis Institute Scranton
| Program | Typical Duration | Career Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Assisting | 9-12 months | High demand in dental clinics and offices |
| Medical Assisting | 12-14 months | Growing field in healthcare administration |
| Practical Nursing | 1 year | Strong job prospects in facilities and clinics |
Firsthand Experience from Fortis Students
Dental assisting student Maria Lopez shared her experience:
“Participating in Give Kids a Smile was eye-opening. I got to apply what I’ve learned in class and make real differences in children’s lives. Helping kids feel comfortable and seeing their smiles after treatment was incredibly rewarding.”
Conclusion
The collaboration between Fortis Institute in Scranton and the Give Kids a Smile program significantly enhances children’s oral health in the local community. This partnership not only provides crucial dental care to those in need but also empowers students with practical experience while fostering community engagement. Families in Scranton and beyond benefit greatly from such initiatives, ensuring every child has the opportunity to maintain a healthy, confident smile.
If you reside in Scranton and need dental care assistance for your child or want to support future Give Kids a Smile events, contact Fortis Institute or your local dental community centers for more information.
