This Veterans Day, Dental Lifeline Network is proud to honor our nation’s veterans. From clearing up painful dental infections to being able to eat normally again – providing comprehensive dental care can make a tremendous difference for veterans.
One Marine veteran who received care through the Donated Dental Services program (DDS) is Bob, 69. He is a Marine Corp veteran who served from 1972-1976. His youth was not a picture-perfect childhood. He struggled throughout most of his young adulthood to provide for himself without parental figures to help guide him through life’s challenges. His experience as a Marine gave him a sense of purpose and allowed him to take charge of his own life. Every night throughout his service he would tell himself “I can do this” to get him through the journey.
Over the years, Bob faced dental neglect with a dislodged implant and numerous broken teeth causing not only physical pain but also a reluctance to smile. He is an in-house caretaker but was not able to afford the treatment he desperately needed. Thankfully, a generous, long-term DDS volunteer, Dr. Steve Gorman, and a volunteer dental lab came to his aid. “Not only did they fix the damage, but they helped me smile again. It has been such a blessing,” Bob stated about his DDS program experience. “I went from having my head down and moping to now smiling every day and [I] look forward to taking pictures. Dr. Gorman is one of a kind and did such an amazing job. He is someone I will never forget.”
Thanks to this team of volunteers Bob was able to eat pain free again and smile more confidently. DLN has served 4,720 veterans nationwide and generated $26.4 million since 1985.
In our ongoing commitment to supporting veterans, we updated our application process so that veterans are placed at the top of our waitlist. This adjustment reflects our continued recognition of the unique needs and sacrifices of those who have served.
In addition to the many dentists, specialists, and labs who have volunteered, we’d like to thank the generous sponsors of our 2023 Lifeline Heroes Challenge – DLN’s annual rally call to ensure veterans get the dental care they need. This year’s sponsors include Benco Dental/Benco Family Foundation, Delta Dental Plans, Patterson Dental, Henry Schein, Dentsply Sirona, Integra Foundation, Safeway Foundation, Midmark, Septodont, and others. Click here for a full list of supporters.
How to Get Involved:
Dentists/Labs: Visit WhyIDental.org and fill out our short form.
Donate: dentallifeline.org/donate.
