Domestic Abuse Survivor
Regains Her Smile and Her Confidence
By Dr. Helaine Smith
Women comprise over 95% of domestic violence victims -- with many experiencing broken teeth, jaws, and facial injuries due to the abuse. Give Back a Smile (GBAS), a community service program sponsored by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), helps women regain their smiles and confidence by matching survivors with volunteer dentists.
Although I've been involved with GBAS for a number of years, I've not had a case sent my way until recently, when Gretchen, a 34-year old woman and mother of one child, was referred to me by her social worker in August.
Due to her abusive boyfriend, Gretchen had four broken and chipped front teeth. If you've ever had a chipped tooth, you know how uncomfortable it feels to have your tongue rub or catch on the tooth's rough edges. Gretchen's discomfort was increased by the fact that every time she looked in the mirror, she remembered the abuse she suffered.
Using materials donated by MicroDental Laboratories, the manufacturers of MAC Veneers, I restored Gretchen's smile in two visits. When Gretchen saw her beautiful new smile in the mirror, she tearfully said, "Now when I look in the mirror, I'll no longer remember the abuse. Thank you!"
I don't know who was happier -- her or me.
Launched in 1999, GBAS has seen over 900 AACD member dentists, lab technicians, and other dental professionals volunteer their time and expertise for the program. Since its inception, GBAS volunteers have completed 464 domestic abuse cases for a total dollar value of $3,529,231.94! Currently, 364 applicants are being treated throughout the US.
Restoring Gretchen's smile was truly a team effort -- thank you to the AACD, Lisa Langenfeld at GBAS, and the folks at MicroDental Laboratories. I would also like to send my heartfelt encouragement to Gretchen -- who is working hard to put her life back together. She's been out of the abusive relationship for over a year, and is interning part-time while she receives job and life skills training.
You, too, can help heal the effects of domestic violence with a financial contribution to Give Back a Smile. And, since October is Domestic Abuse Awareness month, now is a perfect time. Whether you give $25 or $100, your contribution will go far in helping GBAS "Restore a smile, restore a life" for hundreds of women across the U.S.
What about you? Do you need a restored smile?
Have you considered cosmetic dentistry but think it's for "vain" people or is outrageously expensive? If you'd like to learn more about your options, please call or email our office to set an appointment. Whether you want a whiter smile or need to replace missing teeth, I can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted.
By phone: 617.327.1350
Through our Website: www.helainesmithdmd.com
Email: helainesmithdmd@aol.com
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