Delta Dental is expanding access to oral health care for veterans through free and reduced-cost programs in collaboration with nonprofit organizations, community health centers, and state agencies. The effort aims to address the gap in dental benefits for those who have served in the armed forces.
Although nearly 9 million veterans are eligible for medical care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, only 6 percent receive dental benefits, and this limited access contributes to poor oral health outcomes that can affect overall health and well-being, according to the company.
Over the past year, Delta Dental has invested nearly $2 million in programs supporting veterans’ oral, mental, and overall health. According to the company, these investments have supported 35 specialized initiatives, including free dental clinics, mobile care programs, and direct assistance for veterans who are low-income, experiencing homelessness, or medically vulnerable.
“On Veterans Day, we pause to honor the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our country,” said James W. Hutchison, president and CEO of Delta Dental Plans Association. “At Delta Dental, we remain committed to supporting veterans on their path to better health by helping ensure access to essential oral care. It’s one of the many ways we strive to give back to those who have given so much.”
Delta Dental also continues its collaboration with Dental Lifeline Network through the Lifeline Heroes Challenge, a national effort connecting veterans with volunteer dentists and laboratories for no-cost comprehensive care. Since 2020, Delta Dental companies have contributed nearly $1 million to support the initiative, helping generate more than $17.8 million in donated dental services for veterans who are elderly, disabled, or medically fragile, the company said.
“Delta Dental has been an invaluable partner and supporter of Dental Lifeline Network’s efforts to advance oral health care for our veterans. It is a privilege to provide critical care to those who have served our country. We are grateful to Delta Dental for making this care possible,” said Lynda Ricketson, president and CEO of Dental Lifeline Network.
Dental Lifeline Network is a national nonprofit organization that coordinates direct-service programs through a network of volunteer dentists and laboratories to provide care for vulnerable adults, including veterans. The Delta Dental Institute, which partners with Delta Dental companies and other organizations nationwide, supports oral health research, community outreach, and advocacy to expand access to care.
Dentists can find volunteer opportunities with Dental Lifeline Network at WhyIDental.org. More information is available at DeltaDentalInstitute.com/cir.
