A Smile Can Be Part of a Second Chance
Men of Nehemiah is a Christian recovery organization that helps men rebuild their lives after the effects of drug and alcohol addiction. During the nine-month program, men move through three phases focused on stabilization, developing tools for recovery and ultimately returning to employment, family and community life.
For many of these men, oral health is part of that journey.
Years of substance use, homelessness and limited access to preventive care can leave men with significant dental needs, including tooth decay, gum disease, missing teeth and infections. Without insurance, stable income or transportation, treatment can seem impossible to obtain.
“Many individuals in our program need dental treatment to restore not only their oral health, but also their confidence, dignity and overall quality of life,” explains Denise Waters, Medical Services Manager for Men of Nehemiah.
That impact was evident when men from the program received care at the Texas Mission of Mercy (TMOM) in Dallas. James, 40, had not been to a dentist since childhood. Six fillings and a cleaning addressed problems that had made eating difficult—and gave him a renewed sense of confidence.
“When I went to a job interview, I had a boost of confidence,” James said. “It felt good to get the love and generosity.”
Nathan had grown up with regular dental appointments but stopped going once his addiction began. At TMOM, he received a cleaning, examination and X-rays, with a crown scheduled for follow-up care. “It’s a good way for the men to see that the community cares for them outside of Men of Nehemiah,” Nathan said.
That message may be just as important as the treatment itself.
As these men work toward employment and independent living, a healthy, functional smile can remove one more barrier standing between them and the future they are working to build. Needed services range from basic preventive care and periodontal treatment to fillings, extractions, crowns and functional appliances.
DCDS is seeking volunteer dentists willing to help Men of Nehemiah clients receive the dental care they need. Your time and expertise can do more than relieve pain or repair a tooth. It can help a man walk into a job interview with greater confidence, reconnect with his community and take another step toward a restored life.
A second chance can begin in many ways. For some, it may just begin with a smile.
ONE PATIENT. ONE YEAR. ONE LIFE CHANGED.
Could you take one pro bono patient under your care? DCDS Foundation is asking volunteer dentists to consider taking on one Men of Nehemiah patient per year, pro bono, and seeing him through the dental treatment he needs. For a man rebuilding his life after addiction, access to a dentist can mean more than treating a tooth. It can mean relief from pain, improved oral health, greater confidence and one less barrier as he works toward employment, stable housing and a restored life. Choose to make a difference. We’ll help connect you with a man who needs your care. Just email info@dcdsfoundation.org or call 972-386-5741 to learn more about becoming a volunteer dentist.
One patient. One year. One dentist who says yes.
