WEST ALLIS, WIS., Aug. 14, 2018 – Dentists volunteering through the Wisconsin Dental Association Foundation’s Donated Dental Services (DDS) program provided 142 disabled, senior, low-income and uninsured Wisconsin adults with $559,105 in much-needed charitable dental care between July 1, 2017 and June 30, 2018. In addition, dental laboratories across the state contributed $23,761 in materials and services.
“It is difficult to find the words that fully reflect how grateful I am for all that you and your staff did for me. I am back to eating all the foods I like and I am no longer embarrassed when I smile,” wrote one grateful patient.
Many DDS patients generally need extensive dental work that can include bridges, crowns or dentures at an average treatment cost of about $3,937 per person.
DDS patients do not qualify for government assistance programs and cannot afford dental care, because a permanent disability, chronic illness or advanced age restricts their income-earning capability. Patients are selected on the basis of financial need and a phone interview with a referral coordinator. A patient candidate then visits a volunteer dentist who assesses the individual’s dental needs and decides whether to accept the financial and clinical responsibilities of providing the necessary comprehensive dental care.
The DDS program is currently accepting applications for patient slots in all Wisconsin counties. Download a Donated Dental Services application or complete it online on WDA.org.
Residents of Calumet, Dodge, Door, Fond du Lac, Grant, Green, Jefferson, Kenosha, Kewaunee, Lafayette, Manitowoc, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Rock, Sheboygan, Walworth, Washington, Waukesha and Winnebago counties interested in applying for DDS assistance may call 888-338-6852. Residents of all other Wisconsin counties should call 866-812-9840.
“DDS is such a rewarding program to participate in,” Dr. Christine Jones, a general dentist in La Crosse said. “The patients are so appreciative of the care they receive, and it’s wonderful to be able to help them smile again! It is a great opportunity to really make a difference in someone’s life,” she added.
The state of Wisconsin and Delta Dental of Wisconsin Foundation provide limited monetary support for administrative and lab costs. Participating dentists often donate more than $8 in clinical expertise, treatment and materials for every dollar contributed to the program.
The DDS program was established in 1998. Since then, some 864 volunteer dentists have provided more than $11.7 million in comprehensive dental care at no charge to 3,883 adults in need. An additional $813,353 in supplies and services has been donated by 159 dental labs.
Visit the WDA Foundation donor page to learn how you can help provide tax-deductible financial support for statewide charitable dental care and oral hygiene education outreach efforts like the Donated Dental Services program.
