What Matters Most in Life? One DSO Gives their Answer

Pacific Dental Services (PDS®), who recently hit an impressive 10,000 team member milestone, also just launched the 8th annual Smile Generation Serve Day. Six hundred twenty two PDS-supported offices and 5,272 volunteers, working in conjunction with Dental Lifeline Network (DLN) and The Smile Generation, treated 2,705 patients who received comprehensive oral health care resulting in $5.6 million in donated dentistry for Smile Generation Serve Day 2018.

Dental Lifeline Network (DLN) is a national charitable organization whose mission is to improve the oral health of people with disabilities or who are elderly or medically fragile and have no other way to get help. DLN accomplishes its mission by developing and coordinating collaborative relationships that provide essential resources for direct-service programs, especially charitable care.

The Smile Generation is a resource for dental recommendations, where patients can find local dentists who offer affordable and convenient, comprehensive services.

“Participating in the physical act of service changes our hearts and minds about what matters most in life.” -Stephen E. Thorne IV, CEO and Founder of Pacific Dental Services

Millions of Americans are without access to basic oral health care. In addition to the importance of having good oral hygiene, the mouth is a gateway to the rest of the body, with more than 120 systemic diseases originating in the mouth. Research supports the link between oral health and whole-body health, which PDS refers to as the Mouth-Body Connection®.

Smile Generation Serve Day is an annual day of service and part of a nationwide campaign of giving that focuses on providing donated dentistry to patients in need, supporting underserved community members across 20 states to get the access to dental care they need to be healthier and happier. PDS-supported dentists provide comprehensive oral health care, including cleanings, x-rays, scaling and root planning, restorations and extractions, if needed.

Since its inception in 2011, more than 15,000 patients have received donated dentistry during Smile Generation Serve Day, totaling $25 million in oral health care. The Smile Generation’s annual campaign also includes local service projects, such as cleaning up community parks and volunteering at local food banks.

The following two videos capture the essence of service days and how impactful they are on both the providers and recipients. The videos heartwarmingly illustrate the powerful nature of service and the significance of giving back. Please take a moment to watch them.

Read GDN’s article on the 2017 Smile Generation Serve Day HERE.

Sources: Pacific Dental Services, The Smile Generation, Dental Lifeline Network