Michigan’s Donated Dental Services Program was honored at the state Capitol June 9, 2009 for providing $10 million in dental care to thousands of Michigan’s elderly, disabled and disadvantaged citizens.

Started in 1996, the Donated Dental Services Program is a joint effort of the Michigan Dental Association and the National Foundation of Dentistry for the Handicapped, which receives funding from the Michigan Department of Community Health to administer the program. Delta Dental of Michigan is a major partner, donating office space for administrators and other support services.

“The people served by this program often have severe oral health problems because they don’t have access to care,” said Fred Leviton, NFDH vice president. “Michigan’s dentists have performed a major service by helping ease the pain and suffering of these people over the years.”

Donated Dental Services has helped 3,755 people over the past 14 years who otherwise never would have received care. In recent years, an average of nearly 400 people were treated annually, each requiring about 15 dental procedures. Individuals receive an average of $2,700 worth of care.

The program receives about $150,000 annually in state funds for administration. For every dollar invested, about $8.73 worth of care is provided, so return on investment is high.

“Michigan’s dentists have established a remarkable track record ensuring Michigan’s neediest citizens get the care they need,” said Dr. William Wright, MDA president. “Ten million dollars represents not only the commitment of our association, but the personal commitment of individual dentists working to address health care needs right in their own communities.”
   
Also recognized for outstanding service to the program were Dr. Vince Benivegna, an East Lansing oral surgeon, and Davis Dental Lab of Grand Rapids. In addition, Sen. Roger Kahn (R-Saginaw), and Rep. Gary McDowell (D-Rudyard), were honored for their continuing support of state funding for the program.

One example of Michigan’s Donated Dental Services program success is Nelson Haahr, 41, of Lansing, who was paralyzed in a car accident in 1990 and now uses a wheelchair. Although Haahr receives Social Security Disability Insurance, and his wife works, they were unable to afford treatment to replace his missing front tooth. Through the program, Dr. Roger Cheney of Lansing provided treatment that included a dental bridge, which was donated by Spartan Dental Laboratory of Lansing.

“Being able to eat and talk without a big gap in my teeth is great – I feel better and I look better,” Haahr said. “I really needed this bridge, but we just couldn’t squeeze it into our budget. Dr. Cheney and the Donated Dental Services Program made it happen.”

Currently, 877 dentists volunteer for the program. In addition, 214 dental laboratories donate some of the fabrications, including bridgework and teeth needed by many patients.

Despite its success, the Donated Dental Services Program is challenged to meet the growing need, and there is a waiting list in many counties. More information on local programs is available on the Community Dental Programs page.