Meet Maria.
Maria’s dream was to be an animator. A first generation college graduate, she completed her BA in 3D Digital Design. Her family was proud. But times were tough, and in order to help her parents, she gave up her dream and began to work at her local church. She loves her new path, serving her community.
Three months ago, Maria came across a TikTok post about a KinderSmile Foundation event in Trenton, providing 100% FREE dental screenings, vision care, glasses, dentures and other critical services, all in partnership with RAM (Remote Area Medical) and Mercer Street Friends. Thinking of her parents, and especially her dad who suffers from diabetes and associated vision loss, she immediately added it to her calendar!
We planned to open the doors to this event on a first-come-first-served basis at 6am on a Saturday morning, and we had guests queue up overnight. Maria and her parents, Manuel and Sofia, drove two hours from the Bronx, and were first in line, arriving at 9pm on Friday, and patiently waiting 9 hours. When the sun rose in the morning, we welcomed Manuel and Sofia as our first two patients to be scanned for new dentures!
As they waited for the dentures to be prepared, Manuel, Sofia, and Maria received eye exams, and Manuel and Sofia were fitted with new glasses.
Through screenings at this event, Manuel was diagnosed with retinal degeneration and severe periodontal disease, and will require eye surgery and regular dental care to ensure that his remaining teeth can be saved. Diabetes and periodontal disease have a strong bidirectional relationship. People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing periodontal disease, and periodontal disease can worsen diabetes control. Regular dental checkups, oral health education, a proper oral hygiene routine, and managing blood sugar levels are essential for preventing and treating both conditions. KinderSmile Foundation’s Medical-Dental Integration initiatives offer access to care for uninsured families, linking them to a Dental Home and Medical Home alike.
Sofia’s previous ill-fitting upper partial denture was made as a temporary six years ago, and was never replaced. She will need comprehensive care on several of her remaining teeth. Maintaining an optimal model of care, KinderSmile Foundation highlights an overall patient-forward approach, highlighting oral health as an essential part of healthcare!
By the end of a long 20-hour day, Manuel, Sofia, and Maria were thrilled to receive dentures and eyewear! They could not be more grateful. “It’s a great help, great service, they were really looking out for us!” Maria said. “Services very welcoming, you have the best team!!!”
This beautiful Saturday ended in RAM’s state of the art, and the world’s first and only mobile digital denture lab, with hugs, tears, and gratitude! Manuel and Sofia received the gifts of smiles, sight, and so much confidence!
For many of our families, barriers in access to care are the reality. KinderSmile Foundation was established to address these disparities and bridge the gap. But we need YOUR help!
The impending uncertainties to Medicaid and social services, and the media confusion about the use of fluoride, are further limiting access and threatening prevention, rather than prioritizing the health of the community.
We are turning to YOU, our partners, supporters, donors, and friends to help us make a long lasting positive impact. Please give the GIFT of a SMILE and advance health equity for the community in need! #ItTakesAVillageKSF