IndiaPost.com - Dentist Pannu in Give-Back-A-Smile program

MADISON, WI: Local American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) dentist, Dalvir Pannu DDS, volunteered for the AACD's Give Back A Smile (GBAS) 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 Give Back A Smile program, AACD members like me 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," commented Dalvir Pannu DDS of Northern California. Pannu Dental Care has three locations in San Jose, Fremont, and Cupertino. How the program works

• Domestic violence survivors who have suffered dental injuries 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 like Dr Dalvir Pannu DDS who provides treatment at no charge to the recipient. Helping the Community by Helping Individuals

"Because more than five million people are affected by domestic violence every year in the United States and Canada, there is clearly a need for a program like Give Back A Smile to help survivors rejuvenate their lives through the caring hands of a local dentist," Dalvir Pannu DDS indicated.

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, D.C, sponsors this yearly national competition to recognize the charitable organizations that make the most effort to advance American society.