Which programs in Florida provide assistance with dental care?

ORLANDO, Fla. – As Florida grapples with a significant shortage of dental professionals, various organizations are stepping up to address the pressing need for accessible dental care.

With nearly half of the state’s population lacking dental insurance, initiatives from the Florida Dental Association, Tooth Fairy Mobile Dental Services, and Catholic Charities of Central Florida are making strides to ensure that all Floridians can receive essential dental treatment.

The Florida Dental Association (FDA) plays a role in promoting dental health across the state. Through its philanthropic arm, the FDA Foundation, the organization has provided over $665,712 to charitable programs in the past year, treating more than 18,000 patients through initiatives like the Florida Mission of Mercy, Project: Dentists Care, and Donated Dental Services.

The Florida Mission of Mercy (FLA-MOM) is a standout program that offers free dental care to underserved and uninsured individuals. This large-scale clinic operates without cost to patients, ensuring that those who might otherwise go without care receive the treatment they need. The program provided thousands in Daytona Beach with free dental care just last month.

Project: Dentists Care (PDC) complements this effort by creating a network of organizations that provide preventive and restorative dental care to low-income individuals who do not qualify for public assistance. Many FDA members volunteer their time to support these initiatives, which aim to establish dental-access programs statewide.

Additionally, the FDA Foundation collaborates with Florida Donated Dental Services (DDS), a program of the Dental Lifeline Network. This initiative connects vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities and the elderly, with free, comprehensive dental treatment. Operating through a network of over 420 volunteer dentists and 200 dental labs, DDS addresses the needs of those who cannot afford necessary care.

Tooth Fairy Mobile Dental Services offers another innovative approach to making sure everyone has access to dental care. This mobile service provides on-site dental procedures in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and private homes. With over 20 years of experience, their team performs a range of services, from routine exams and cleanings to denture fabrication and extractions, all in the comfort of the patient’s environment.

Catholic Charities of Central Florida also plays a crucial role in delivering dental care to those in need. Their clinics offer quality medical and dental services free of charge to uninsured individuals living at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. With the support of volunteer healthcare professionals, these clinics operate under a “medical home” model, ensuring comprehensive care in a compassionate setting.

Despite these efforts, the statistics reveal a stark reality. Florida ranks 50th in the percentage of children receiving annual dental visits and 42nd for adults. Many Floridians resort to emergency rooms for non-traumatic dental issues, where they receive temporary relief rather than comprehensive care.

Catherine Cabanzon, a dental hygienist and founder of the Florida Dental Hygiene Alliance, emphasized the importance of increasing access to preventive care.

“If we could increase our access to care, especially in the prevention area… we could stay ahead of this and do better,” she said.

As these organizations continue to work to improve dental care accessibility, the hope is that more Floridians will receive the necessary treatment to maintain their oral health and overall well-being.