As part of the Pathways to Oral Health initiative, Oral Health Kansas has launched a new consumer video series called Confidence in Every Smile. The videos are designed to help individuals with disabilities, and their caregivers navigate oral health routines through adaptive techniques, specialized equipment, and practical strategies for common challenges such as limited upper extremity mobility.
This series was the passion project of Kathy Hunt, RDH, ECPII, Oral Health Kansas’ Program Director, who led its development from idea to final production with the help of Compass Marketing Group. We sat down with Kathy to learn more about what inspired the project, the process of bringing it to life, and her hopes for its impact.
Inspiration Behind the Project
Q: What inspired you to create Confidence in Every Smile?
Kathy Hunt: I was inspired by the many conversations I’ve had with people with disabilities and their caregivers about the daily challenges of oral hygiene. I noticed there were very few resources available online, and I knew that seeing techniques demonstrated is far more impactful than just reading about them. My goal was to create practical, easy-to-follow guidance that could truly make a difference in their everyday lives.
About the Process
Q: What was the most rewarding part of working on this series?
Kathy Hunt: Seeing the videos come to life and imagining someone finally feeling confident and capable of brushing their teeth—or helping someone else brush—was incredibly rewarding. Knowing this series could reduce frustration and improve daily routines made all the effort worthwhile.
About the Audience
Q: What do you hope people living with disabilities take away from these videos?
Kathy Hunt: I hope they take away the message that oral care is possible, even if it looks different for them. Small adjustments and practical tools can make brushing and flossing easier, safer, and more effective.
Looking Ahead
Q: How do you hope this series will impact oral health access and equity?
Kathy Hunt: I hope the series helps break down barriers by providing accessible, practical guidance that empowers people with disabilities and their caregivers. Ultimately, I want it to support better oral health outcomes and give people the confidence to advocate for their care.
Why This Matters
Oral health is closely tied to overall well-being, yet many people with disabilities face barriers that make daily care feel daunting. By offering clear, visual demonstrations and adaptive approaches, Confidence in Every Smile provides a new kind of support—one rooted in empowerment, equity, and compassion.
Thanks to Kathy’s leadership and the Pathways to Oral Health initiative, these videos are now a resource for families, caregivers, and individuals who deserve both the tools and confidence to care for their oral health.
Watch the full Confidence in Every Smile video series at pathwaystooralhealth.org.
