Richard, 69, lives alone in central Mississippi. He enjoys getting out in his community and visits with his sister and friends regularly. Richard worked in production plants and lumber companies before experiencing a terrible motorcycle accident. The pain in his left ankle never fully healed and he had to have his leg amputated below the knee. Richard now has a prosthetic leg and uses a walker.
Unfortunately, Richard also had poor oral health. He was missing many of his teeth and had not seen a dentist in several years. Due to heart problems, his physician urged him to immediately see a dentist. Richard survives on a small Social Security benefit and his disability insurance did not cover the cost of the dental treatment he desperately needed. He seemed to have nowhere to turn for help.
How DDS Helped
He was referred to the Donated Dental Services (DDS) program and received help from the following generous volunteers:
• Dr. W. Mark Donald performed multiple extractions and donated full upper and lower dentures
• Triangle Dental Laboratory fabricated the dentures
“Dr. Donald did a really good job. I can eat a lot better and actually chew my food. It has changed my life. I really appreciate everything he did.” -Richard, DDS Patient
“I have had the honor and privilege of treating DLN patients since the origination of the DDS program. It has enriched my practice and has had lasting positive effects on the patients.” -Dr. W. Mark Donald, DDS Volunteer and DLN • MS Leadership Council Member
Mississippi Donated Dental Services (DDS) is a program of Dental Lifeline Network, a national humanitarian organization and affiliate of the ADA, providing access to comprehensive dental care for people with disabilities or who are elderly or medically fragile and have no other way to get help. Nearly 2,500 patients in Minnesota have received treatment from over 240 volunteers.
Learn more about volunteering or to learn about DDS in your state, visit our state pages.
