Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Transforming Lives Through Donated Dental Care in Denver, CO
Since 1975, Dental Lifeline Network has been dedicated to transforming lives through comprehensive dental care for vulnerable adults across the United States. Our mission is driven by a nationwide network of over 12,350 volunteer dentists and 3,300 laboratories, providing free services to individuals with disabilities, seniors, and medically fragile patients. Founded on the vision of Dr. Larry Coffee, we have served over 170,000 patients, addressing critical oral health needs that often intersect with broader medical challenges. Our programs, including the Donated Dental Services (DDS) initiative and the Colorado Campaign of Concern, emphasize accessibility, education, and community collaboration. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we ensure that those unable to afford care receive life-changing treatment, supported by partnerships with national dental organizations and corporate sponsors.Our team, led by experienced professionals, coordinates every step of the care processfrom patient screening to treatment completionensuring reliability and trustworthiness. By prioritizing veterans, elderly populations, and individuals with chronic illnesses, we bridge gaps in healthcare access, adhering to rigorous standards of ethical practice and transparency. Through donor contributions and volunteer expertise, we continue to expand our impact, guided by a legacy of compassion and a vision for universal access to dental care.
Services
Donated Dental Services
Oral Hygiene Training
Patient Screening
Dentist Matching
Dental Lab Partnerships
Veteran Care Programs
Community Outreach
Health Education Materials
State Coordination
Volunteer Recruitment
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of experience serving vulnerable adults through a nationwide volunteer network.
- Our programs prioritize patients with disabilities, seniors, and medically compromised individuals.
- Weve facilitated $500 million in donated dental care, transforming over 170,000 lives.
- Our team coordinates every step of care, ensuring seamless access to treatment.
- We partner with national dental organizations and corporate sponsors for sustainable impact.
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit
What people say
Got my life back
Life-changing treatment
Restored my dignity
Compassionate volunteers
Pain-free again
Services
Donated Dental Services
The Donated Dental Services (DDS) program provides comprehensive free dental treatment to vulnerable adults, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and medically fragile patients. Through a network of 12,350 volunteer dentists and 3,300 labs, we address critical needs like infections, extractions, and restorations. This program has delivered over $500 million in care since 1985, prioritizing those unable to afford treatment.
Oral Hygiene Training
The Colorado Campaign of Concern offers oral hygiene training for individuals with developmental disabilities and their caregivers. Participants learn proper techniques and receive adaptive tools to maintain oral health. This program also connects clients needing treatment with volunteer dentists, operating statewide since 1976.
Veteran Care Programs
Veterans with disabilities, seniors, or those requiring life-saving dental care receive priority access to our services. Through partnerships with volunteer professionals, we ensure veterans obtain necessary treatments, improving their quality of life and overall health outcomes.
Patient Screening
Our state coordinators screen applicants to confirm eligibility based on age, disability, or medical necessity. This process ensures resources are directed to those most in need, with over 5,000 patients currently on the waitlist for treatment.
Dentist Matching
We match eligible patients with volunteer dentists and labs, managing the entire treatment process. From initial consultations to final restorations, our team coordinates care, ensuring accessibility and continuity for patients across all 50 states.
People
Dr. Larry Coffee
Founder
Dr. Larry Coffee founded Dental Lifeline Network in 1974, inspired by his sister Barbie, who had developmental disabilities. His vision to address neglected dental care for vulnerable populations led to the creation of the Donated Dental Services program, impacting over 170,000 lives.
Lynda Ricketson
President/CEO
Lynda Ricketson joined as President/CEO in 2022, leading strategic initiatives to expand the organizations impact. With a focus on partnerships and innovation, she aims to reach new milestones in collaboration with staff, board leaders, and dental professionals nationwide.
Questions
Who qualifies for free dental care through Dental Lifeline Network?
Applicants must be over 65, permanently disabled, or require medically necessary dental care with no other means to afford treatment.
How do I apply for the Donated Dental Services program?
Visit our website, select your state, and complete the online application. You’ll need to provide documentation like dental insurance details or a denial letter.
Does Dental Lifeline Network accept dental insurance?
Yes, but applicants must use existing coverage first. A copy of insurance or a denial letter is required with the application.
How are volunteer dentists and labs involved?
Volunteers provide care in their offices, while labs donate restorations like dentures. Our coordinators handle patient screening and treatment logistics.
What areas does Dental Lifeline Network serve?
We operate in all 50 U.S. states through a network of state coordinators and volunteer dental professionals.
Videos
