Susan, 73, is a vibrant woman who lives in Allen County and is active in her community. She was a licensed practicing nurse (LPN) for more than three decades, primarily working with the geriatric population in nursing homes. Years of maneuvering patients left her with multiple orthopedic injuries that required several surgeries including spinal fusion, double knee replacement, hip replacement, and rotator cuff repair.
In addition to these health challenges, Susan also had dental problems. As a teenager, she fell and hit her mouth on a bathtub breaking several teeth. She began wearing a full upper and partial lower denture shortly after the surgery. It had been nearly 20 years since her last dental appointment and Susan’s dentures no longer fit properly.
Unfortunately, Susan could not afford the dental treatment she needed. She still works with a catering service and earns a minimal wage, but is unable to work many hours due to the impact on her body. She relies on a Social Security benefit and barely makes ends meet. Comprehensive dental care seemed to be a luxury beyond her reach.
How DDS Helped
- Fortunately, Susan was referred to the Donated Dental Services (DDS) program and was linked with three generous volunteers.
- Dr. Matthew Kolkman donated a new upper denture and an implant-retained lower denture.
- Image Dental Arts fabricated the full upper and partial lower denture at no cost.
- Biohorizons Implant Systems donated the implants.
“I am very happy with the help I received. Dr. Kolkman and his staff are absolutely wonderful and I wish I could tell everyone about the blessing I received.”
—Susan, DDS Patient
“It is always a privilege to work with DDS patients. Susan was VERY grateful for the services and was so much fun and a joy to work with..”
—Dr. Matthew Kolkman, DDS Volunteer
Indiana 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, 16,000 dentists and 3,500 laboratories volunteer for DDS.
Learn more about volunteering or to learn about DDS in your state, visit our state pages.
