Seal in a Smile

Healthy smiles in the classroom as Seal in a Smile returns

May 13, 2026 | 4:44 PM


PRINCE GEORGE – For over 20 years, the Seal in a Smile Program has been providing elementary school students with proper early dental care and education which they may not have access to otherwise while also providing Dental Assistant students some much needed hands on experience. This initiative is made possible with collaboration from four major local organizations which include School District 57, Northern Health, The College of New Caledonia (CNC) and the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation.

“Anytime you can have local organizations coming together to support our community and especially children in our community, it’s a win win situation.” said Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation Community Engagement Coordinator Cynthia Thomson.

The Seal in a Smile program gives the students an opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice while forging patient bonds, handling live cases, and acclimating to the fast-paced demands of a dental career.

“We’re polishing the patient’s teeth and it’s a way for kids to get free cleanings and sealants done. Otherwise it’s very expensive, especially if the parents don’t have insurance. It’s also a way for us to practice on real people instead of using mannequins.” said CNC dental assistant student Edyn Halfnights.

In addition to building confidence among the dentistry students the event provides a crucial role in building confidence in the school children, particularly since many of the children were visiting a dentist for the first time.

“I’m just very happy that I am able to provide the free health care that these kids need because a lot of them don’t understand the importance of oral health care. It’s great that we’re able to teach them and then they’re able to tell other people about it just so it spreads like good health to everyone else.” added CNC dental student Ivan Tan.

Despite anxious looks on some of the children as they went in, they came out with clean teeth and a better understanding of oral health moving forward.

“They will clean my teeth and help me to not get cavities.” said Harwin Elementary student Everleigh Levesque.

The annual Seal in a Smile program continues to highlight the importance of regular dental care in supporting children’s overall health and wellbeing.