The Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas is expanding its low-income dental program to seniors expanding its dental care assistance program to seniors.
The Empowering Smiles Oral Health Initiative Program started in 2024 providing dental screenings and oral health education to students in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD in partnership with Metrocrest Hospital Authority. Now, with a $246,000 grant from Metrocrest, the college will expand the initiative to older patients.
“Community members in senior houses, in assisted living, the oral health is really much in need of attention,” said Dr. Amal Noureldin, professor and director of predoctoral curriculum in the Department of Dental Public Health at the college. She said many seniors struggle to care for their teeth because of a “lack of dexterity. “The school plans to partner with at least two senior living centers in need of dental care to provide screenings, fluoride, varnish and hygiene kits…