Pamela Doray, DMD is a highly qualified and experienced cosmetic dentist in Philadelphia. Patients often seek her services because of her expertise and ability to achieve results that are beautiful, healthy and functional. Dr. Doray is fortunate to have a thriving practice and believes in sharing her time and talent with those who have been less fortunate. One way Dr. Doray gives back is through the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry’s (AACD) Give Back a Smile program to heal the effects of domestic violence by providing free consultation and dental treatment to restore the smiles of survivors of domestic violence. “Through the Give Back a Smile program, AACD members assist survivors by treating their dental injuries that were sustained from domestic violence, so that they may reclaim their smiles, their self-esteem and, ultimately, their lives,” said Dr. Doray.
How Give Back a Smile works
Domestic violence survivors who have suffered dental injuries in the smile zone 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.
Helping the Community by Helping Individuals
“Because more than 5 million people are affected by domestic violence every year in the United States and Canada, there is clearly a need for a program like GBAS to help survivors rejuvenate their lives through the caring hands of a local dentist,” Dr. Doray said. In July 2001, the AACD was one of only eight organizations in the world to receive the Award of Excellence and the prestigious Associations Advance America Summit Award for its GBAS program. The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), of Washington, DC, sponsors this yearly national competition to recognize charitable organizations that make the most effort to advance American society. For complete details about the GBAS program, visit www.aacd.com or call toll-free 800-543-9220.