More than 350 patients were cared for by School of Dentistry faculty, students and community volunteers.
More than 350 underserved and homeless people in the Birmingham area received teeth cleanings, fillings and extractions at no cost as part of the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry’s sixth annual community outreach event, which took place Wednesday, Oct. 31.
The event, UAB Dentistry Cares Community Day, helps raise awareness of the health barriers low-income adults face in accessing critical dental services. The difficulty this population faces can elevate chronic health conditions, reduce employability and lead to the preventable use of costly acute care in hospital emergency rooms.
“There is such a critical need for oral health care services and education in our community,” said Michelle Robinson, DMD, M.A., interim dean of the School of Dentistry. “We’re proud that, in our sixth year, we are able to have a profound impact on our neighbors in need.”
More than 400 volunteers took part in the give-back day. This year, patients were expected to receive nearly $ 250,000 in pro bono dental services and treatment. With help from sponsors, donors and community agencies, UAB’s School of Dentistry is among few dental schools in the country that host such a large-scale give-back day.