Sidney, 73, lives alone in Washington County. He served 2 years active duty and 8 years in the reserves for the US Navy. While in the Navy he trained in electronics and used those skills for a 14 year career in the IT industry. Unfortunately, Sidney injured his back and was forced to stop working. He also suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and mental health issues.
In addition, Sidney’s oral health was in poor condition. He was missing many of his teeth and those that remained were broken and decayed. His gums bled regularly and he found it difficult and painful to eat. He last saw a dentist in 2014 but was unable to afford the necessary treatment.
Sidney survives on a small social security benefit that just covers his expenses. While he has healthcare with Veterans Affairs, it doesn’t include dental benefits. It seemed he had nowhere to turn for help.
How DDS Helped
Fortunately, Sidney was referred to the Donated Dental Services (DDS) program and he was linked with a team of volunteers.
•Dr. Rick Guthrie
•Premiere Dental Lab
•Bertram Dental Lab
“I’m so glad this program exists and that I found out about it. It all worked out great for me. I’m very happy. Thank you.”
—Sidney, DDS Patient
Tennessee Donated Dental Services (DDS) is a program of Dental Lifeline Network, a national humanitarian organization and a strategic partner 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. Nationally, 15,000 dentists and 3,500 laboratories volunteer for DDS.
Learn more about volunteering or to learn about DDS in your state, visit our state pages.
