The Foundation for Endodontics surpassed its 2016-2017 goals by raising $1.48 million for research grants, education, public awareness, and improved access to care for underserved populations. As the philanthropic arm of the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), the Foundation relied on the networking and fundraising efforts of dedicated trustees, committee members, and colleagues in the specialty, as well as the generous support of endodontists, residents, and corporate partners.
“We are tremendously grateful for the support of our first time and longtime donors. Supporting the Foundation is the most fundamental way to support the future of the specialty,” said Peter A. Morgan, DMD, president of the Foundation.
During the campaign, the Foundation approved a new strategic plan that focused on access to care by developing the Outreach Program, designed to offer meaningful opportunities for endodontists to support and represent the specialty and promote the benefits of saving natural teeth in underserved communities. Working with the Henry Schein Cares Foundation, endodontists go to the Helping Hands Clinic in Jamaica Beach, Jamaica, to provide endodontic treatment to save teeth that otherwise would need to be extracted.
During the past 3 trips to Treasure Beach, volunteers saved more than 100 teeth. They worked under the guidance of William Griffin, DDS, and James Carney, DDS, who have a longstanding association with the clinic. The volunteers also educated patients about the benefits of saving their teeth. Plus, they worked side by side with general dentists and predoctoral students from the United States, enhancing their understanding of endodontics.
“It is very emotional. I am thrilled with what we are doing,” said volunteer Daniella S. Peinado, DDS, an endodontist from Jacksonville, Fla, and a trustee with the Foundation for Endodontics. “The excitement and commitment of this team is something really amazing, and the patients are so grateful that we’re able to save their teeth.”
“A lost tooth has serious emotional, social, and physical consequences,” said Morgan. “The opportunity to preserve a tooth with root canal treatment often isn’t an option for patients who have limited access to care. Our teams are honored to be there to relieve pain, save teeth, save smiles, and improve lives.”
The raised funds cover the costs for 2 residents and one endodontic mentor to travel and stay in Jamaica as well as a license to practice in the country, med-vac insurance, and other precautionary measures for each trip. One more trip has been budgeted for this year.
“As the specialty of endodontics becomes more mainstream and international, access to care efforts provide new opportunities for the Foundation to apply our resources to benefit endodontics and patients,” said Morgan. “Funding the Outreach Program will enhance care for patients in need and demonstrate the value of endodontic treatment by endodontists in a way the public can easily understand.”
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