Special Smiles is the dental health discipline of the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes® program. Special Smiles provides free oral health screenings, education, preventive services, and referrals for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID), helping to improve access to dental care and overall health outcomes.
Role: As a Special Smiles Volunteer, you will help deliver compassionate, inclusive dental care in a non-clinical, event-based setting. Volunteers perform dental screenings, educate athletes on oral hygiene, and provide fluoride varnish treatments when appropriate. You’ll play a vital role in promoting lifelong dental wellness and helping athletes get connected to follow-up care when needed.
Responsibilities: Conduct basic oral health screenings following Special Smiles protocols Educate athletes on proper brushing, flossing, and nutrition habits Apply fluoride varnish (if licensed and trained to do so) Assist with fitting and distributing free mouthguards for sports safety Record findings and help ensure athletes receive appropriate referrals Create a welcoming, respectful experience for all participants
Qualifications: Licensed Dentists, Dental Hygienists, or Dental Students (2nd year or above) Interest in inclusive health and serving people with intellectual disabilities Strong communication skills and a friendly, patient demeanor Experience in community outreach or public health is helpful, but not required
