As part of National Children's Dental Health Month, 30 young patients received free dental screenings and sealant applications Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Universities at Shady Grove dental practice.
A student provides oral health care to a young patient at Sealant Saturday.
The Sealant Saturday initiative, organized by the University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD), brought together 40 dentistry and dental hygiene students who worked under faculty supervision to provide preventive care focused on cavity prevention to young Marylanders.
The event was held in partnership with the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
"By collaborating with the School of Dentistry on this event, we are able to raise awareness about its presence in Montgomery County as a dental care partner," said Tricia Boyce, DDS, dental director for Montgomery County DHHS. "Sealants can reduce the risk of tooth decay by 80 percent on the molar teeth."
The procedure involves applying thin, plastic coatings to the chewing surfaces of back teeth where it’s hard to brush and decay commonly begins. The painless treatment is particularly effective for children between ages 5-14 when permanent molars first emerge.
Event co-organizer Ramsay Koury, DMD, UMSOD clinical assistant professor, noted that while many children at the event had already received some dental care, the program remains vital for those without regular access to preventive services.
It also serves as a guidepost for parents who bring their children in for care.
"Parents help maintain their children's dental health by making sure they perform good dental hygiene, eat healthy, and have regular dental visits," Koury said.
The clinic enhanced the child-friendly experience with face painting, balloon decorations, and dental health-themed coloring books. The Shady Grove facility offers year-round pediatric services including cleanings, checkups, and preventive care, with a focus on serving families who might otherwise lack access to regular dental care.
"This event provided an incredible opportunity for UMSOD to deliver essential dental education and serve as vital partners in the fight against tooth decay among children in the community," said Halima Karim, DDS, FAGD, FACD, UMSOD clinical instructor and director of the Shady Grove clinic.
“The students had a great time and want to come back to do it again,” added Koury.
In addition to Sealant Saturday, which caters to children, the Shady Grove dental practice also hosts Mission of Mercy events, which offer free dental care to underinsured adults.
The next Mission of Mercy will take place in April 2025. Sealant Saturday is expected to return to the Universities at Shady Grove in February 2026.