MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Dozens of U.P. high school students got a taste of dentistry at Northern Michigan University.
Planet Smilez hosted a free Discovering Dentistry Symposium at the Northern Center – bringing in educators and dental students from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry to give local students a hands-on look at careers in oral health.
The event was funded by the Delta Dental Foundation, with a focus on inspiring young people in rural communities to consider the field. Students who attended will also have the opportunity to take part in a six-session virtual mentorship following today’s event.
Planet Smilez President and Founder Dr. Kathryn Pawlak says the hands-on experience is what sets the program apart. “Students are really gaining an exposure as to what the career entails, and learning about different careers as oral health professionals including the role of dental assisting, dental hygeine, and dentistry,” says Dr. Pawlak. “The most exciting part is the hands-on activities. They’re getting the opportunity to learn how to do fillings, manage dental traumas, how to suture, and more.”
More information on Planet Smilez and future programs can be found at planetsmilez.org
