The Los Angeles Team, organized by Drs. Flavia Pirih and Beatriz Bezerra of UCLA, coordinates a city-wide PerioDash event involving UCLA, West L.A. VA, and USC.
The team was inspired by PerioDash’s ability to combine wellness activities with fundraising support for the AAP Foundation. According to the organizers, “We saw PerioDash as an opportunity to bring our residents, faculty, and friends together” while supporting the foundation’s mission.
The L.A. Team has become one of the largest and top-fundraising groups by maintaining an inclusive, celebratory atmosphere. The organizers emphasize that keeping the event engaging is essential—they sponsor student and resident registration fees, secure raffle donations from faculty, and offer prizes for fast runners.
Residents and students energize the effort through widespread recruitment and participation, with the Periodontal Study Club playing an instrumental role in engaging dental students.
Beyond fitness, PerioDash strengthens community bonds and provides visibility for periodontal health awareness among colleagues, patients, and the broader community.
