After 40 years without a dental visit, Charlie, 72, faced not just health issues but also the inability to enjoy a lifelong passion.
Unable to afford care, the Vietnam-era Navy medical corpsman and national guard musician developed jaw and tooth pain that made it difficult to play the trombone comfortably.
June 21 marked Charlie’s fifth dental appointment with Zufall Health as part of a treatment plan that began in May. The Essex County resident was one of more than 60 patients who received no-cost dental care at Smiles for Our Heroes, Zufall’s flagship dental event serving low-income veterans.
Without a 100% service-connected disability, veterans are ineligible for dental benefits through the VA.
“Charlie’s story shows how complex dental care can become when it’s out of reach for so long,” said Zufall President and CEO Frances Palm. “When you factor in the lack of insurance, transportation challenges, or chronic medical conditions, it becomes even harder for veterans to stay on track.
“That’s what makes this program so meaningful. We’re with them through the entire treatment journey, not just on event day.”
The program is made possible by a Delta Dental of New Jersey Foundation grant and a network of partners and volunteers committed to honoring those who’ve served, Palm said. Since its formation in 2017, the grant has supported nearly 600 veterans.
“The Delta Dental Foundation has been supporting our neighbors in need for nearly 40 years — from children to seniors to our veterans, we believe everyone deserves a healthy smile,” said Paul Di Maio, President and CEO of Delta Dental of New Jersey. “We remain committed to supporting dental care for our nation’s heroes through our Foundation’s grant support, as well as our employees who volunteer at this event each year to help serve those who served our country.”
For veterans like Sabrina and Robin, who also attended the event, the opportunity to receive dental care for the first time in years was met with deep relief and gratitude.
Sabrina, 61, served in the Army during the Cold War. Years later, a traumatic brain injury ended her civilian career and left her with overwhelming medical costs.
“I went 12 years without seeing a dentist,” said the Morris County resident. “I’m not proud, but I’m very appreciative and hopeful that Zufall will help me get through this setback.”
Lack of affordable care had a similar impact on Robin, 66, also a Cold War-era Army veteran, who lives in Union County. Missing teeth left her reliant on using a food processor for meals.
“I didn’t know where I’d get teeth from,” she shared. At the event, Robin underwent an alveoloplasty, a procedure to reshape the jawbone in preparation for dentures. “I am grateful to God that an agency such as yours exists to serve veterans who can’t afford dental care.”
Smiles for Our Heroes 2025 brought together Zufall staff and volunteers to provide free dental care and celebrate veterans with food, live music by the Denville String Band, and access to community resources.
