UB dental school provides over 100 local veterans with free oral health care
Community event focused on improving access to oral health care and education.
By Sarah Smykowski
Published March 9, 2026
Over 100 local veterans are enjoying healthier smiles following the Dentistry Smiles on Veterans event held on March 6 at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine.
Now in its 11th year, Dentistry Smiles on Veterans provides veterans with free dental services, including cleanings, restorations, X-rays, extractions and more. The event aims to address a critical need in the community; many veterans lack dental insurance or may not qualify for treatment through the Veterans Health Administration.
“Oral health is strongly associated with overall health, which is why it is so important that we improve access to quality care among our veterans,” remarked Marcelo Araujo, DDS, MS, PhD, dean of the School of Dental Medicine. “If we can help meet this need, it’s one small way we can give back to those who have served our country. We are proud to welcome them into our clinics.”
The School of Dental Medicine provided a variety of treatments valued at approximately $50,000 in private practice fees. Treatments included 49 cleanings, 46 extractions, 9 restorations, and treatment for one case of periodontal disease. Providers also aimed to help veterans find a dental home if they didn’t already have one. Over 70% of this year’s attendees made follow-up appointments at the UB Dental clinics, where they can continue to receive quality care.
Students also benefitted from the day of outreach, according to Danielle Sudol, a fourth-year dental student who served as one of the event’s student coordinators. “As dental students, being able to give back to people who have given so much is really impactful," says Sudol. "We get to hone our skills while helping other people. It’s a great day where we get to do a lot of great work.”
Dental residents from the Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) provided care alongside UB's dental students, residents, faculty and staff, while representatives from UB's other schools, such as pharmacy and public health, provided veterans with educational materials and services focused on their overall wellness.
The School of Dental Medicine is planning another event for veterans later this year. Information and registration details will be available on the UB Dental website.