DDS student makes a difference with TeamSmile

As busy as the life of a dental student is, there often seems to be little time for “extras” like volunteer work (or eating or sleeping or …). Yet for Sophie Chweya, DDS ’26, giving back to her community is an everyday occurrence. She recently coordinated volunteers for a TeamSmile event to provide life-changing dental care and instruction to local children who otherwise would not have access to it. 

Not only did she manage to find more than 30 fellow students to volunteer at the recent event, but those classmates agreed to participate during the University’s spring break. “Our school has such amazing students, and they showed up in a big way,” Chweya said. “I plan to volunteer next year, too, and I hope we can engage more first-and second-year students. Once they experience the event as assistants, I know they’ll be excited to return as student providers — and hopefully, one day, as practicing dentists.”

TeamSmile facilitates partnerships among dental professionals, pro sports teams and dental organizations. Since its inception in 2007, it’s conducted more than 275 events, served more than 55,000 children and provided more than $20 million in free dental care and oral health education nationwide. 

“TeamSmile holds events in Minnesota twice a year,” explained Angie Hastings, DMD, director of the Division of Community Outreach and Engagement at the School of Dentistry. “They gather at either US Bank Stadium or Target Field, and players come out to meet the kids. TeamSmile has fully equipped chairs with equipment and product reps on hand.” Hastings is proud of the impact students make by participating in these events: “On average, TeamSmile has provided $85,407 worth of free dental care and oral health education per event, averaging $424 per child.”

The interaction with professional athletes is important for the kids, and it made a big impression on Chweya, too. “One moment that stuck with me from last year was when a football player stayed until the very last child was treated, holding their hand because they were scared. I knew then that I wanted to continue being involved with TeamSmile.”

And while she knows that everyone is busy these days, Chweya encourages DDS, DT and DH students to get involved. “It’s a unique and fun experience for both the volunteers and, most importantly, the children,” she said. “It offers many children, especially those with dental anxiety, the opportunity to see our profession in a different light, and allow them to have fun while receiving care they might not otherwise have access to.”