25 April 2025 1 minute read
Kailan Bain, C'2026, is a junior chemistry major with a concentration in cosmetic chemistry on the pre-dental track at Spelman College.
As a passionate advocate for accessible healthcare, Bain is committed to addressing the disparity in dental care for children in underserved communities. She strives to make a meaningful impact by increasing access to affordable pediatric dental care and educating children about the importance of healthy oral hygiene practices.
By promoting early intervention, Bain aims to prevent long-term oral health issues and empower children to develop habits that will sustain their oral health throughout their lives. Bain serves as the Vice President of the Chemistry Club and is the Historian for the Spelman Pre-Dental Society. As a Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation Scholar and a Bonner Scholar, Bain has dedicated over 1,300 hours to community service, working closely with local schools to promote college and career readiness. Bain has also served as a tutor and teacher assistant, focusing on literacy, science, and math proficiency. In addition to her leadership roles, Bain is a Fellow with the Spelman Innovation Lab, where she designs and digitally reconstructs 3D models of oral anatomy using real clinical cases to enhance dental visualization and study. She is currently developing interactive VR simulations from these 3D dental images to offer pre-dental students an immersive, hands-on learning experience that deepens their understanding of oral anatomy.
Bain's experiences extend to prestigious programs such as the Harvard Bridge to Dental School Program and the Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) at Columbia University. As a participant in HSDM's Bridge to Dental School Program , Bain studied dental surface terminology, tooth anatomy, and the progression of caries. She also explored the social determinants of dental care access. During her time as a SHPEP Scholar, Bain gained hands-on experience by taking tooth impressions, crafting Essix retainers, and preparing dental casts. As an HCOPPP scholar, Bain continues to expand her knowledge of healthcare while dedicating her efforts to improving health outcomes in underserved communities. She is committed to leveraging her education, experiences, and future dental career to advocate for equitable oral health care, ensuring that all children and families have the necessary resources and support to maintain lifelong health and well-being.