Feature Story

Health Center Today, October 21, 2009

Pink Is the Color of the Month at University Dentists

By Chris Kaminski

The University Dentists team dressed in pink. First row, left to right: Kathy Tosca and Claire Marcelino. Back row, left to right: Dr. Jacqueline Duncan, Agnes White and Violet Pierson.

UConn Health Center’s University Dentists are literally "thinking pink" during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Every Wednesday, the dentists, hygienists, and clerical staff are wearing pink to raise breast cancer awareness. "Almost every person in our practice has been touched directly or indirectly by breast cancer," says practice manager Pam Miles. The idea of promoting breast cancer awareness was raised during a staff meeting. "Initially, the hygienists suggested using pink supplies. Subsequently, a dental assistant suggested wearing pink one day a week and the idea caught on with the faculty and staff."

Individuals that have appointments at the University Dentists office in October are greeted by a hygienist or dentist donned in pink, pink dental supplies, and are treated to a pink toothbrush. "The patients have been very receptive to what we are doing and will share their breast cancer experiences with us," says Miles. "It’s a way for us to be part of an important cause in a fun way."

Dental hygienist Karin Steisel giving a patient a pink toothbrush.

University Dentists is a group practice comprised of highly trained and academically based faculty who provide comprehensive and specialized care in all fields of dentistry.