Overland Park, KS (PRWEB) May 12, 2012
Dr. Ross S. Headley, was awarded a medal May 3 at the annual conference of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry in Washington, D.C. for his work during the past year with victims of domestic violence. Working through the Give Back a Smile (GBAS) program, Dr. Headley, an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, volunteered his time, resources and skills to change lives of domestic abuse victims.
The Give Back A Smile (GBAS) program is an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry charitable foundation. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, it is estimated that 1.5 million people experience intimate partner violence each year. Dentists and dental labs who volunteer their time, skills and resources help victims of domestic violence by restoring their smiles. Victims of domestic violence (women and men) can suffer physically, mentally and financially. When physical abuse takes place, broken front teeth are common.
“Restoring a smile is a healing experience and a major step toward restoring self confidence and hope for their future,” says Dr. Headley. “Helping victims of domestic violence has been a rewarding experience for me as well as my entire staff. Each of my staff members is educated on domestic violence and is extremely professional in interacting in a compassionate and caring manner with these patients.” For a victim of abuse, the process of determining eligibility begins by contacting the GBAS (Give Back A Smile) at 800-773-4227 or going online at https://www.aacd.com.