The New England Center for Children® (NECC®), a global leader in autism education and research, has partnered with Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine (GSDM) to deliver dental exams and preventative care for students with autism at NECC’s on-site dental clinic.
The Smigel Supersmile® Dental Clinic represents a groundbreaking step in NECC’s mission to improve the lives of children with autism. Through this collaboration, pediatric dental residents from GSDM gain hands-on experience working under the supervision of the school’s faculty while providing essential dental services to over 100 children with autism living in NECC’s residential group homes. The clinic also supports desensitization techniques that were developed by researchers at NECC and are now published in the ACE® curriculum used with more than 10,000 learners worldwide.
“Boston University’s Goldman School of Dental Medicine is a perfect partner for us,” said NECC CEO Dr. Jessica Sassi, BCBA-D, LABA. “Providing high-quality dental care on our campus reduces stress for our students with autism, while dental residents from GSDM gain invaluable experience working with this unique population.”
“We are honored to provide dental services to children with autism,” said Dr. Michelle Henshaw, professor of health policy & health services research and associate dean for global population health at GSDM. “Improving the overall health of our diverse population remains a key component of our school’s mission. Opening the eyes of future health care professionals to health disparities in our nation and around the world is a vital part of a complete education in dental medicine.”
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, and dentists recognized that children with autism often experience oral health inequities due to behavioral challenges that make traditional dental visits difficult or impossible. Before the establishment of NECC’s in-house dental clinic, dental appointments required substantial resources and travel for students and staff.
“The NECC dental clinic is a tremendous benefit to our son, who’s behavioral and communication issues have prevented him from receiving proper dental care for years,” shared Louis, the father of NECC student Asa. “Asa places great trust in his teachers and being able to walk to a familiar setting makes the experience much more positive. NECC’s desensitization program and the on-site clinic are a game changer for our son’s dental and overall health.”
Discover the latest trends and insights—explore the Business Insights Journal for up-to-date strategies and industry breakthroughs!
