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San Joaquin Valley College Blog

Medical Assisting and Dental Assisting students help give moms a break

June 16, 2016

SJVC Fresno Dental Assisting students volunteer to help moms learn about dental careSeveral Medical Assisting and Dental Assisting students from SJVC’s Fresno and Madera campuses volunteered several hours at the Madera County Behavior Health last month to help a few moms of children under five years old enjoy a day of relaxation and health education.

“The goal was to spend some time helping the women focus on their own health and well-being,” says Sandra Lozito, Dental Assisting instructor on the Fresno campus. “It was more about relaxation and awareness about their health.”

Displays were set up at the Self Care event, and services such as aromatherapy, relaxation therapy, art therapy, massage chair, medical awareness and dental health made sure moms were pampered – and educated – throughout the day.

“Our group was able to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques and answer questions about dental health for both adults and children,” says Sandra. “We had plenty of goody bags with toothbrushes, floss and toothpaste for both the mothers and their children.”

A few SJVC student volunteers were fresh out of classes that gave them the information they needed to pass along to moms that day. “[Some of the] Dental Assisting students were only at SJVC for 8 weeks, but had already learned so much,” says Sandra. “They got to practice what they had just tucked under their belts, and were talking and acting like dental professionals.”

Volunteerism has always been an important component of SJVC’s educational experience. Jason Fischer’s Term One students got to give something to the community and learn from that experience first-hand that day. Participating Fresno students included: Insigneun (Tiffany) Yangnouvong, Jessica Bueno, Carlos Vega, Phillip Zuniga, Selena Gijalva, and Vanesa Rios.

Several Madera campus students participated, as well.

“It was satisfying helping the mothers with proper brushing and flossing techniques,” says Jessica Bueno, Dental Assisting student. “It gave a great warm feeling to help others.”

Moms who participated that day felt pampered and appreciated. “It was a time when anything students can offer them is going to be positive, and when we go out and do something like this, the community is so appreciative,” says Sandra.

“It was really nice giving educational information to the families regarding their children’s dental health, as well as educating the parents,” says Dental Assisting student Tiffany Yangnouvong.

Volunteerism is also a great way for Medical and Dental students to meet professionals in their field and begin to develop relationships that will benefit their careers.

“It was nice to be around people who cared about the community, and to be a part of a cause that helps promote proper dental care,” says Carlos Vega, Dental Assisting student.

Everyone enjoyed a tri-tip lunch that added the final, perfect touch to the day.

“The group (SJVC students) displayed a level of kindness and professionalism that has left a lasting impression on me,” says Sandra. “They were attentive, outgoing, knowledgeable and caring. I can tell that this group has a bright future ahead. Way to go team!”

Learn More About A Career In Dental Assisting

Are you interested in dentistry and passionate about helping people? Then a dental assistant career could be for you. Dental assistants work in dental offices under the supervision of dentists. They have excellent interpersonal, organizational and listening skills.

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