Staff describe Team Smile dental outreach that provided free screenings and some extractions to Eden students

Presenters told the board the district’s first participation in the Team Smile program, coordinated through the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, brought 28 students to a fieldhouse event offering free dental screenings, X-rays, cleanings and, in some cases, extractions performed by licensed professionals. The event included education stations, sensory supports and family outreach materials for follow-up with primary care dentists.

Lisonbee Gardner, identified in the meeting as the GLP social worker who helped coordinate the trip, said the program prioritized students with higher needs and those who face barriers to routine dental care, including transportation and lack of dental insurance. "It provided free dental care and oral hygiene and education for children in a fun, supportive environment," Gardner said. Antoinette Backard, the district’s pre-K–5 psychologist, described Team Smile’s team approach — including occupational and physical therapists, special-education teachers and volunteer dental staff — and said staff used weighted lap pads, modeling and other strategies to help students with sensory needs access care.