UCLA Dental Students Spread Holiday Cheer as Angels in Medicine!
by Elbert Tom, MPH, DDS
As the holiday spirit fills the air, UCLA dental students have once again stepped up to make a profound impact on their community. This year, their mission was clear: to bring much-needed dental care to the underserved in the Compton/Watts region of Los Angeles, an area where accessibility to healthcare can feel like a distant dream.
Partnering with Healing California, a commendable non-profit organization devoted to delivering free healthcare to those in need, this event was a beacon of hope, offering essential dental services to nearly 100 individuals.
The event was equipped with cutting-edge tools and materials, empowering student volunteers and healthcare professionals to provide a range of services that truly transformed lives.
From oral hygiene education to dental cleanings, fillings, and extractions, the services rendered not only enhanced the oral health of participants but also emphasized the importance of regular dental check-ups—a crucial takeaway for many.
What truly set this initiative apart was its holistic approach. The event didn’t stop at dental care; it also included medical screenings, triage services, and eye care. Vision specialists were on hand, conducting refraction tests and distributing prescription glasses right on the spot, ensuring attendees left with not just smiles, but improved overall well-being.
Catherine Johnson, a passionate third-year dental student at UCLA, shared her excitement about volunteering at such impactful events. “Participating in initiatives like this is incredibly rewarding. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and reminds me why I chose this path,” she expressed.
Her words reflect the heart and soul behind these efforts, showcasing the drive to bring about real change in the world through dedicated service.
This event beautifully illustrated the power of community healthcare. By uniting dental, medical, and vision services, it not only addressed pressing health concerns but also sowed seeds of hope and connection during a season meant for generosity and gratitude.
About the Author
Dr. Elbert Tom is a Group Practice Director and Health Care Clinical Assistant Professor at the UCLA School of Dentistry.
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Angels in Medicine is a dedicated platform highlighting the selfless heroes in healthcare—physicians, nurses, and volunteers who reach out to those lacking access to quality care. Their stories shine a light on the compassion that exists in medicine. Discover more at www.medangel.org.
Want to contribute your voice? Know an Angel whose story needs to be told? Reach out at [email protected].
