A recent article in the Los Angeles Times noted that dental care access for the disabled may grow scarcer due to cuts in government funding and lack of training or facilities that can handle the special needs required for certain patients. Many families with a disabled member often have financial difficulties related to health care costs and are then put at a further disadvantage.

Fortunately, the National Foundation of Dentistry for the Handicapped (NFDH) arranges for much-needed services and care for many mentally, physically and/or medically disabled individuals. The group, a charitable affiliate of the American Dental Association, focuses on getting dental treatment to needy individuals through a network of volunteer professionals and organizations.

Beyond grants and private donations, a volunteer network of 12,900 dentists and 2,700 dental laboratories contribute millions of dollars in services every year. In the more than 20 years since the Donated Dental Services program began, over 86,000 people have received comprehensive treatment valued in excess of $142 million.

Four ways you can help

While some disabled patients may need specialized care, most can be treated in general practices. NFDH has several programs that you or your staff can contribute services or funding.

1. Volunteer Your Time with Donated Dental Services (DDS)

The organization’s primary program, Donated Dental Services, is committed to providing volunteer dentists and their staff with a gratifying and frustration-free experience, while enabling patients to benefit from comprehensive care.

You can sign up for the DDS program using a simple application with either a local or national program (depending on your state). The application allows you to designate the kind of patient you feel you are best prepared to treat. A local coordinator from the program office will handle all details between your practice and the patient. Patients can access the program only on a one-time basis (or treatment schedule), but some dentists opt to continue services at a discounted rate or through donated services. Only patients that meet the organization’s specific requirements are eligible to participate. Dentists have the option whether or not to proceed with treatment after an initial examination. It is relatively easy to participate and offers personal rewards and recognition.

2. Buy DentaCheques

Some dentists participate by purchasing DentaCheques, a catalog and discount coupon program that helps support disabled dental care volunteers. The booklets contain a variety of special offers on dental office supplies and free samples.

3. Make a Donation

Make a financial contribution directly to the Foundation.  According to the Foundation, for every $1 donated, about $15 worth of care is provided to special needs patients.

4. Participate in a regional program

The Dental HouseCalls program operating in Chicago, Denver and New Jersey, is geared toward patients who are home-bound, in group homes or other facilities, but are unable to travel outside the facility. The program matches patients with a local dentist willing to travel to private homes or facilities to perform treatment. An NFDH coordinator with access to a fully-equipped portable dental operatory in a van arranges appointments and provides set-up and chair-side assistance.

In New Jersey, the Bridge/Campaign of Concern program for the developmentally disabled brings volunteer dental hygienists into schools, vocational facilities and group homes for preventive education and screenings to identify those with more urgent treatment needs.

For complete details of these programs, visit the National Foundation of Dentistry for the Handicapped web site.