Touro College of Dental Medicine (TCDM) hosted its 7th annual Smiles for Veterans event on November 11, a day-long celebration of veterans, military personnel, and their families. In honor of Veterans Day, TCDM provided free dental screenings, x-rays, and cleanings to veterans as thanks for their service to our country. With patients seen on-site and more scheduled for follow-up visits, the event continues to be a cornerstone of TCDM’s dedication to community and service.
The celebration drew participation from TCDM’s third- and fourth-year dental students and faculty, as well as notable local figures, including NY Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assemblymember MaryJane Shimsky. Speakers included Dr. Mill Etienne, Vice Chancellor for Diversity and Inclusion at New York Medical College and Dr. Marvin A. Fier, Clinical Associate Professor at TCDM; both doctors are veterans themselves.
“Being able to offer vital dental care to veterans is a true privilege for our students and faculty,” said Dean Ronnie Myers of Touro College of Dental Medicine. “Our commitment is to provide accessible, high-quality care to members of our community, including those who have sacrificed for our country. Smiles for Veterans is one of our most meaningful initiatives, enabling us to express our gratitude to veterans while actively supporting their health and well-being.”
Many veterans and their family members delay routine dental care and treatment due to financial constraints. TCDM’s Smiles for Veterans campaign is an essential part of helping veterans get back on track with their oral health, offering them critical care in recognition of their sacrifices. For TCDM’s dental students, the event is an invaluable clinical experience that underscores the importance of community service in the role they will play as future dentists.
“I am proud to stand with Touro College of Dental Medicine in supporting the well-being of our veterans and helping to bridge gaps in healthcare access,” said Sen. Stewart-Cousins. “TCDM’s ‘Smiles for Veterans’ program reflects the compassion and dedication essential for addressing healthcare disparities and supporting those who have given so much for our nation. I commend their commitment to our veteran community and congratulate TCDM for making a profound impact on their lives.”
TCDM remains dedicated to hosting Smiles for Veterans each year and working with community partners to ensure that veterans and their families have ongoing access to high-quality dental care. In addition to free services offered through Smiles for Veterans, Touro Dental Health provides discounted rates to veterans, military personnel, and their families year-round.
