Provide Critical Dental Services to Oregon's Youth

Since our projected began, we have received lots of positive feedback! Our greatest feedback however, comes from our patients, like Luis as told by Dr. Lisa Bozzetti, DDS:

“In 2008, I began treatment with a five-year old boy named Luis, who had extensive dental problems. He was frightened when he arrived at the clinic and was subsequently very uncooperative during his exam. His mother begged us to try treatment on him as he’d just had some work done at a pediatric dental clinic, but the family was unable to afford further treatment there. I was hesitant at first and started by recommending that he see a specialist in pediatric dentistry.

But with his mother’s insistence and knowing that the family had no insurance and little resources, I agreed to help if I could. We struggled for the first few appointments, but after coming in a few times, he relaxed and became more cooperative. After six months and multiple visits, I am pleased to report that we were able to successfully complete his extensive treatment.  His mom was thrilled because she could actually afford to bring him in to see us here at Virginia Garcia and Luis was now pain-free and on his way to improved oral health. 

Three years later, I still see Luis for his regular check-ups, and he no longer suffers from acute dental problems. His mother understands the importance of routine care and she can afford to bring him to us. It is rewarding to see Luis arrive, always with a big smile on his face. He has lost all six stainless steel crowns as his beautiful white permanent teeth come in. 

At Virginia Garcia, we understand the value in providing treatment to kids who may not have anywhere else to turn. Our dental providers routinely work with children and help them to overcome their fears and achieve—many for the first time—a pain free and healthier mouth. With our emphasis on educating the whole family on how to care for their teeth, we can make a real and lasting difference in the lives of our young patients.”

We still have a long way to go to ensure that kids, like Luis, are able to have bright, healthy smiles. Everyday, we are welcoming new children into our dental clinics. The latest data available confirms that low income children are more than twice as likely to have untreated decay, almost three times as likely to have rampant decay, and they have annual dentist visits 30 percent less of the time.

Our work is not done to reach our goal of providing critical dental services to children in our community. With 6,000 children expected to come through our doors this year, now is the time to act!

Links:

• Virginia Garcia's website
• 2007 Oregon Smile Survey