Buffalo, NY – Planet Smilez®, a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of oral health professionals, has been featured in The Inner Circle and recognized for its innovative work in pediatric dental education and community outreach.
Founded by pediatric dentist Dr. Kathryn M. Pawlak, Planet Smilez® is transforming how students from educationally and economically underserved areas are introduced to careers in dentistry. By focusing on early intervention, mentorship, and immersive hands-on learning, Planet Smilez is building a compassionate oral health workforce through early exposure.
At the heart of the organization’s mission is the belief that students from all backgrounds deserve the opportunity to see themselves as future healthcare leaders. Through signature programs like the Discovering Dentistry Camp and Discovering Dentistry Symposium, Planet Smilez offers middle and high school students the chance to explore the oral-systemic health connection, participate in hands-on dental activities, and connect with oral health mentors. Planet Smilez is proud to be a 2024 recipient of the Delta Dental Institute’s Driving Greater Diversity in the Oral Health Workforce campaign. With support from this initiative, the organization is expanding its reach, by hosting 10 immersive Discovering Dentistry Symposiums across the country to close the gaps in promoting dental education and the future oral health workforce.
Dr. Pawlak, a board-certified pediatric dentist, serves as President of Planet Smilez and continues to lead its vision with passion. She holds academic appointments at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and NYU College of Dentistry. She brings years of experience in outreach, education, and clinical care. Pawlak has been recognized by national organizations including the American Dental Association as a 10 Under 10 Award recipient, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Delta Dental Foundation, American Dental Education Association, and the Hispanic Dental Association. She is a fellow of the International College of Dentists and was recognized as a Rising Dental Health Leader from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry.
“I believe education and mentorship has the power to transform lives.” Pawlak said. “My goal for the DDS program is to empower children with oral healthcare knowledge and hands-on dentistry experiences. This will, optimally, help children envision a future in dentistry, while also fostering a generation of healthcare professionals who can address the diverse and unique needs of their communities, they one day will serve.” With a growing network of partners, including schools, dental associations, and community-based organizations, Planet Smilez is poised to make a lasting impact on the oral health workforce—one student at a time.
For more information please visit: http://www.planetsmilez.org
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