NMDA Journal Fall 2019

10 New Mexico Dental Journal, Fall 2019 VOLUNTEER DENTISTS SCREEN 279 CHILDREN AT THE 2019 GATHERING OF NATIONS The Society of American Indian Dentists, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Care Van, and the Gath- ering of Nations joined forces to provide dental screenings to 279 children at the 2019 Gather- ing of Nations (GON). GON draws thousands of tribal dancers and audiences throughout the United States and Canada. Dr. Zellisha Quam LeBeaux (Zuni Pueblo) and Dr. Darlene Sorrell (Navajo) have been in the audience at GON on numerous occasions. Both dentists have distinguished careers in tribal dental facilities. They’ve seen first-hand the challenges many tribal children face when it comes to oral health.“Screening children early and getting them to a dental home can have a lasting positive impact on their oral health. GON is a family-friendly event, with a lot of children; it made all the sense in the world that we as dentists could go to them and provide screenings, answer questions, and direct them to a dental home,”stated Dr. Quam LeBeaux. For a number of years, Quam LeBeaux and Sor- rell had both contemplated how to approach GON with the dental screening idea. The New Mexico Dental Association (NMDA) typically touches base with tribal dental facilities every 12–18 months to offer support and discuss ways to collaborate. Stephine Poston (Sandia Pueblo), NMDA’s tribal liaison heard about the dentist’s interest in providing screening at GON. By Fall 2015, Poston had introduced the dentist to Melonie Matthews (Santa Clara), one of the producers of GON. Without hesitation, Matthews agreed to pro- vide space for the dentists at the 2016 GON. This year, 2019, marked the fourth year of this initiative, screening nearly 1,000 children. For many of the children, it’s the first time they’ve seen a dentist. Quam LeBeaux further stated,“It’s always a great feeling to be in the heart of the commu- nity. Parents are so appreciative. Others stop by inquiring about how to get dental screenings organized in their local tribal communities and powwows.” The dentists and volunteers are to be com- mended for their dedication and hard work. “Commitment like this will contribute to helping improve the oral health of Native American communities and encourage families to establish a dental home. Further- more, it goes without saying that we are truly grateful and value our partnership with GON’s,” stated Sorrell. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Dr. Quam LeBeaux at [email protected] by February 28, 2020.