BSPD award for ‘inspirational’ dentist building a brighter future for children

Based in Yorkshire and Humber, Happy Teeth is geared to building a brighter future for children with special educational needs (SEN) or children affected by the refugee crisis.

Foundation dentists (new graduates in dentistry) are trained to go out with Linzi to special schools to teach and screen children’s teeth. Teachers and assistants in these settings are also trained in oral health so that good practice can be maintained after the visit.

Dr Maybin said that as a student, she only had one thirty minute lecture on the management of patients with special educational needs. After graduating, she got involved with a special school in Halifax and found the experience so rewarding she developed her Happy Teeth project. “I just feel passionate about caring for patients who can’t always communicate that they have a dental problem.”