11/3/2006

BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) dentist Helaine Smith, EMBA ’05, a volunteer for AACD’s Give Back a Smile (GBAS) program, recently restored the smile of a survivor of domestic abuse. Gretchen, the 34-year old woman and mother of one, had four chipped and broken front teeth and was referred to Dr. Helaine Smith by her social worker. Using materials donated by MicroDental Laboratories, the makers of MAC Veneers, Dr. Smith restored Gretchen’s smile in two office visits.

"Although I’ve been involved with GBAS for a number of years, I’ve not had a case sent my way until recently," said Dr. Smith. "When Gretchen saw her new smile in the mirror, she tearfully said, ’Now when I look in the mirror, I’ll no longer remember the abuse. Thank you!’ I don’t know who was happier -- her or me!"

Dr. Smith went on to add, "Through the GBAS program, AACD members like me assist survivors by treating their dental injuries sustained through domestic abuse. The program helps women reclaim their smiles, their self-esteem, and their lives. And, because more than five million people are affected by domestic violence every year in the United States and Canada, there is clearly a need for a program like Give Back A Smile to help survivors rejuvenate their lives through the caring hands of a local dentist. I’m honored to be part of the Give Back a Smile program."

How the Give Back a Smile program works:

• Domestic violence survivors who have suffered dental injuries from abuse from a former intimate partner or spouse can contact GBAS toll-free at: 800.773.GBAS (4227).
• Survivors must make an appointment with a counselor, domestic violence advocate, social worker or therapist to complete the advocate section of the GBAS application.
• GBAS conducts the initial review of the application; however, the dentist has the final say as to the eligibility of the applicant.
  If eligible, the AACD connects the survivor with a local GBAS volunteer who provides treatment at no charge to the recipient.

The official Give Back A Smile program was launched May 27, 1999. Since then, more than 900 AACD dentists, lab technicians and other dental professionals have volunteered their time and expertise pro bono for the program. Since the program’s inception, 464 domestic abuse cases have been completed for a total dollar value of $3,529,231.94. Currently 364 applicants are being treated throughout the United States.

About Helaine Smith, DMD

Dr. Smith, a Boston, Massachusetts cosmetic dentist, has combined a dedication to patient care, volunteerism, and business acumen since beginning her dentistry career in 1991. She is a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry and a Las Vegas Institute graduate. She recently completed an executive MBA program at Suffolk University.

In May 2006, Dr. Smith’s practice was named first runner-up in the prestigious Cosmetic Practice of the Year Award competition, sponsored by Levin Group, Ascend Media, and Philips Oral Healthcare. For more information about her practice visit http://www.helainesmithdmd.com

About the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

In July 2001, the AACD was one of only eight organizations in the world to receive the Award of Excellence at the prestigious Associations Advance America Summit Award for its GBAS program. For complete details about the Give Back A Smile program, visit www.givebackasmile.com or call toll-free: 800.543.9220. Those interested in finding help with the Give Back A Smile program can also visit the Web site, call the National Hotline: 800.773.GBAS, or send an e-mail to givebackasmile@aacd.com.

About MicroDental Laboratories

MicroDental Laboratories is the world’s largest and most advanced cosmetic dental laboratory, setting the industry standard for innovation and quality for more than 40 years. The manufacturer of MAC Veneers, MicroDental works closely with leading manufacturers, cosmetic dentists, and professional organizations to help develop new materials, dental procedures, and meaningful continuing educational opportunities for dental industry professionals. The company employs more than 500 people and is located in Dublin, California. For more information visit http://www.macveneers.com

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