Category: Featured, Healthy Communities, Oral Health Promotion
The Bureau of Chronic Disease Prevention and Healthcare Access, branded as Well-Ahead Louisiana, is committed to expanding statewide access to dental care while promoting preventive oral health for children and families.
One of those efforts came in the form of an oral health clinic hosted by Well-Ahead’s Oral Health program and one of its partners, TeamSmile, at the Caesar’s Superdome in New Orleans.
At the event, TeamSmile members screened and educated a diverse range of local New Orleans participants at no cost.
“The smiles we saw today show what’s possible when partners unite around access to care,” said Dr. Kami Thomas, TeamSmile’s Program Director.
More than 230 participants received dental care services, including sealants, extractions, fluoride applications, pediatric prophylaxis, fillings, crowns, and more.
Despite the high volume of participants, team members maintained an efficient workflow, with clear triage, clinical stations, and education tables.
“Events like this help close gaps while reinforcing healthy habits at home and in school,” shared Jasmine M. Alexander, MSW, Oral Health Program Manager.
The oral health program continued to build more connections in 2025 by partnering with the Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) and Colgate Bright Smiles Bright Futures (BSBF) to host the annual Touch a Truck event at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner, Louisiana.
The event aimed to provide hands-on learning experiences while expanding access to preventive oral health education and screenings for children.
Throughout the two-day event, the Well-Ahead Louisiana team provided interactive oral health education, demonstrations, and age-appropriate materials, while Colgate BSBF delivered on-site dental screenings.
Overall, BSBF conducted 46 screenings and educated over 400 students, with more than 2,500 families participating in vehicle exhibits and health activities.
The event was supported by numerous community sponsors, including Cintas, Raising Cane’s, Coca-Cola, Cox, Louisiana State Troopers, Kenner Police, Entergy, and Manning Family Children’s Hospital.
This collaboration highlighted the importance of blending public health education with family-friendly community events.
Well-Ahead Louisiana looks forward to continuing its partnerships with TeamSmile, JLNO, and Colgate BSBF, and is excited to explore more prevention efforts within the community in 2026 — one smile at a time.
Looking to Join Louisiana’s Oral Health Movement?
If your dental clinic or school is interested in getting involved, visit Well-Ahead Louisiana’s oral health program or Louisiana Seals Smiles for additional information.
