Building student involvement, fostering civic engagement and enhancing community service to advance public health. 

The D18 class  has put together “tooth talks” at the Castle Square Tenants Organization with the goal of introducing oral health topics (hygiene, dental insurance, nutrition) to the members of the community. D18 class members engaged the community with dental jeopardy, flossing demonstrations, and a Q & A session. D18 Co-Community Service Chair Lauren Gerkowicz reflected on the event:

“The D18 Community Service Chairs have been working hard to create opportunities for the class to get intimately involved in the local community, namely through programs with the Castle Square Tenants Organization in the South End. A series of “Tooth Talks” was set up and the first seminar covered general oral health and hygiene, a flossing demo, dental jeopardy, and passing out of toothbrushes and toothpaste. A group of D18’s hosted the seminar at Castle Square, and the turnout was incredible! Over 45 residents attended and were fully engaged in the presentation. The next talk will cover dental insurance and we’re hoping for even more class and CSTO resident involvement. Through these interactive seminars, Tufts dental students get to connect with individuals in our neighborhood in a very meaningful way.”