Dental Lifeline Network • New Jersey’s Donated Dental Services (DDS) program celebration of reaching a major milestone led to two signification recognitions: Governor Murphy proclaimed a day in its honor and the American Dental Association President issued a citation. Thanks to volunteer dentists and laboratories across the state donating their time and materials, the DDS New Jersey program has provided over $25 million in comprehensive care to the state’s most vulnerable populations.
“These generous contributions have improved the lives of over 9,100 individuals in New Jersey and made it a better place to live,” New Jersey Gov. Philip Murphy wrote in his 2020 proclamation.
ADA President Chad Gehani in his citation wrote “In recognition and thanks to Dental Lifeline Network • New Jersey, its DDS program, volunteer dentists and labs for reaching a $25 Million milestone in providing donated dental care. My warmest congratulations!”
The Donated Dental Services (DDS) program aims to reach people with disabilities, the elderly or medically fragile who would not otherwise have access to dental care. Russell, a US Air Force veteran, is one of the many patients who has had his dental health restored since the New Jersey DDS program’s launch in 1988. Russell is retired after years of working as a social worker, suffering from health issues and unable to afford dental care. His remaining teeth were broken and decayed, making it difficult to chew.
The Department of Veterans Affairs referred Russell to the DDS program, and two caring DDS program volunteers stepped in to help. The team extracted 16 teeth and constructed a partial upper denture, giving Russell the confidence to smile again - and eat pain-free.
“I am so grateful and proud of the generosity of our volunteer dentists and labs across the state,” said Dr. Sidney Whitman, Past President DLN • New Jersey. “With their help, we have been able to surpass $25 million in care to help save and change the lives of people in our community who desperately need dental care.”
With the support of the New Jersey Dental Association, almost 9,500 patients, living in all 21 counties have received comprehensive dental treatment. Currently more than 620 volunteer dentists and 120 volunteer labs participate in the program. The program needs additional volunteer dentists and laboratories to continue its mission of transforming lives through the delivery of lifesaving care.
"Volunteering with Dental Lifeline Network has been an invaluable experience for both myself and my dental team," said Dr. Mark Vitale, President of DLN New Jersey. "Having the opportunity to work together to serve those members of our community in need, while meeting some of the amazing individuals in our state has been an honor and a gift. I hope more dentists will join me in this wonderful experience."
The DDS program makes it easy for you to make an impact. Dentists see patients in their own office on their own schedule and determine a treatment plan. A DLN-NJ coordinator takes care of the paperwork, ensures patient qualifications and acts as a liaison between dental staff and the patient. If you have questions about the program contact one of the DLN•NJ Board of Directors: