From Local Roots to National Impact

The Start of Something New

Dr. Justin Stone’s journey of moving Dental Lifeline Network from a state program to a national program began in a small New Jersey dental office. Back in 1961, Dr. Stone’s goal was simple: treat patients with disabilities who struggled to find proper care. What started as a slow trickle of patients soon became a flood, with wait times stretching to months. 

This growing need sparked even more passion in Dr. Stone, and he stumbled upon an article in the Journal of Dentistry for Children featuring DLN’s founder, Dr. Larry Coffee in Colorado. Inspired by Larry’s mission to help individuals with disabilities, he wrote a letter to see if he could work with Dr. Coffee and replicate the program’s success in New Jersey.  

Larry’s response was a turning point. He empowered Dr. Stone to replicate the program and sent eventual CEO, Fred Leviton, to help. With their combined efforts, they built what was then called the New Jersey Chapter of what would become the New Jersey • Dental Lifeline Network’s Donated Dental Services (DDS) program.  Larry, Justin, and Fred then officially launched DLN as a national organization.  

Brian D. Stone Awards Created 

Dr. Justin Stone’s own connection to the mission made a significant impact on DLN. As a Navy dentist, he’d witnessed the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities seeking dental care. Additionally, the loss of his own child, Brian D. Stone, only strengthened his resolve. To honor his son’s memory, Dr. Stone and his wife established the Brian D. Stone Memorial Award, recognizing future dental professionals who share their commitment to serving the most vulnerable populations.  

Dr. Justin Stone’s Legacy: 40 schools, 391 Awards 
Thanks to the Brian D Stone Award DLN is currently partnered with 

• Over 40 accredited dental schools give the award 

• 391 philanthropic dental graduates have been recognized (since the award’s inception in 2010) 

The lives of countless individuals with disabilities were changed when Dr. Justin Stone decided to transform a local challenge into a national solution. His legacy will continue to live on through the various achievements he has accomplished for DLN, and we hope that DLN will continue to grow and inspire dentists of all generations to join the mission and reach more patients in need.