Access to dental care can be a significant challenge for many, even more so when facing health challenges and financial hardship. This was the reality for Shirley, 62. As a former teacher with disabilities and living on a fixed income, Shirley thought restoring her oral health was impossible. It was through Dental Lifeline Network’s Donated Dental Services (DDS) program that she experienced a lifechanging transformation.
2017 brought significant challenges to Shirley’s life. That year, a diagnosis of severe diabetes forced her to go on disability and led to the onset of debilitating neuropathy. She continues to suffer the effects of those issues and struggles with other health complications including carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoporosis, and depression. Adding to these challenges, Shirley also faced significant oral health problems. When she came to the DDS program, she was missing six teeth and several others were cracked, causing severe pain, especially when eating. This constant discomfort made daily life difficult.
Before going on disability, Shirley enjoyed her work as a third-grade teacher. No longer able to work due to her health complications, she now lives on limited social security benefits and food stamps, unable to afford the treatment necessary to restore her oral health. Shirley was left in despair, wondering if she would get the care she needed to eat and live pain free again.
DDS Volunteers Give Hope and Healing
This all changed when Shirley found the DDS program. Thanks to the generosity of general dentist Dr. Rebecca Warnken and several volunteer labs, Shirley received two crowns, an upper plate, and additional restorative work, giving her back her smile and renewing her oral health. Although there is still treatment left to complete, Dr. Warnken and her team were able to complete almost all major work on Shirley’s birthday, a gift that allowed Shirley to eat pain-free and enjoy life with renewed confidence.
“It’s the best birthday present ever, and nothing is going to hold me back now” said Shirley, reflecting on her treatment. “I can address my dietary needs now, and I am so happy about it. As a diabetic, I am now able to eat fresh vegetables without being worried about cracking a tooth. I can move forward with my health, and I don’t have to stop because I can’t eat certain foods. I just feel so grateful, and I can have a happier smile now.”
You Can Change a Life
Hundreds of DDS patients are waiting for the life-changing dental care they desperately need. Individuals in your community, like Shirley, lack the resources to afford essential treatment. You can make a difference by becoming a DDS volunteer.
“I highly encourage you to become a volunteer,” said Dr. Rebecca Warnken. “During the course of treatment, Shirley faced multiple hardships, including losing her housing and living out of her car for a while. She still managed to keep all of her appointments. It was a joy to provide donated dental treatment in our office, and DLN makes the process so smooth and simple. I highly encourage my colleagues to get involved!”
Your skills as a dental professional can bring hope and healing to those who need it most. Dental Lifeline Network offers a simple way to give back in the United States, where many vulnerable adults lack access to essential oral care. DLN’s DDS program connects compassionate volunteers like you with patients in desperate need of treatment.
Sign up to volunteer or learn more by visiting WhyIDental.org or by scanning the QR code.
