Join us in Bridging the gap between oral health and mental wellness

Get to know us

Mental Smiles Initiative (MSI) was founded by Betul Yildiz, a pre-dental student at Rutgers University, with the goal of redefining how we approach healthcare. Inspired by the strong connection between mental wellness and oral health, MSI was created to bring awareness to an often overlooked aspect of patient care.

With experiences through shadowing and dental assisting, Betul recognized that oral health is not just physical, it is influenced by mental health, behavior, and access to care. MSI reflects this perspective by promoting a more integrated and patient centered approach to health.

Our Purpose

MSI aims to bridge the gap between dentistry and mental health by educating students and communities on how these areas intersect. We focus on prevention, awareness, and creating conversations around how mental wellness impacts oral health behaviors and outcomes.

Our vision

Promote oral health education in connection with mental wellness
• Raise awareness about how stress, anxiety, and depression affect oral hygiene habits
• Advocate for a more holistic, patient-centered approach in dentistry
• Conduct student-focused research on oral and mental health connections
• Organize outreach events and provide oral hygiene resources

Our team

Mental Smiles Initiative is made up of a diverse group of students with interests in healthcare, public health, research, and community engagement. Our team brings together different perspectives to promote a more holistic approach to health that connects mental wellness and oral health.