For Dr. Meelin Chin Kit-Wells, dentistry has always been about serving others. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, she began her career as a school dental nurse before earning her dental degree at the University at Buffalo after graduating summa cum laude from Howard University. Today, she leads pediatric dentistry at Wells Dental in Tucson, Arizona, and is dedicated to expanding access to quality oral health care, especially for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Do you brush and floss as much as you recommend?
Yes… realistically, I try my best! It gives me the opportunity to say to patients, “Here’s what I do according to the guidelines.”
What is your favorite flavor floss?
My favorite floss flavor is traditional mint.
Electric or manual toothbrush?
I prefer a manual toothbrush. I keep an electric toothbrush handy for a collaborative effort when needed.
Which celebrity has the best smile?
I like Denzel Washington’s smile, and Kerry Washington’s as well — both are healthy and beautiful.
If you could tell patients to stop doing one thing, what would it be?
Stop feeling nervous about visiting the dentist. Search for a dental home where you feel comfortable and cared for. There are many wonderful, compassionate and caring dentists who want to help you.
What is the best dental advice you’ve ever received?
The best dental advice I’ve ever received is to floss the toothpaste between your teeth. I love sharing that tidbit!
What is the best thing about being a Delta Dental dentist?
The best thing about being a Delta Dental dentist is being able to provide care for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities, knowing that Delta Dental and the Foundation understand the unique challenges they face and are committed to supporting their care.
Any funny stories from the dental chair?
After moving to Arizona from Buffalo, New York, one of my pediatric patients asked if I was from Buffalo Wild Wings. That still makes me smile.
How would you describe oral health’s impact on your patients’ overall health and well-being?
We take the time to help our patients understand the connection between oral health and overall health. By scheduling follow-up appointments and looking at the whole picture, we see firsthand how much of a difference that approach makes. Our patients become ambassadors for total health through oral health.
What is the most important thing you want parents to know about caring for their child’s teeth?
As independent as your child wants to be, parents should still help with brushing. Brush their teeth before or after they do, and even after age 8, check that they’re reaching all the trouble spots. We’re happy to point those areas out at each appointment. Together, we can help keep your child cavity-free!
What is your favorite dental joke?
Hmm… I don’t really have one! Let me look one up. How about this: What’s a dentist’s favorite animal? A molar bear. That’s pretty cute.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what three items would you bring?
Water, a cell phone, and my resourceful front desk manager. She’d get us out of there!
Anything else you’d like to add?
Advocate for quality care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Treat every patient with compassion and lead with love for all humanity because everyone deserves a healthy smile.
