The Back Page: Helping the Homeless through the Delonis Oral Health Initiative

Authors

Sarah Tomaka, DDS, University of Michigan School of DentistryFollow

Abstract

This feature story highlights a student-led initiative at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry to provide dental care to Ann Arbor's unhoused population. Through the Delonis Oral Health Initiative, students have partnered with a local shelter to connect over 100 vulnerable patients with essential treatment. The article discusses the profound impact of treating dental pain on an individual's ability to pursue stable housing and a better life. It also showcases how the program provides students with meaningful leadership and community service experience while addressing a critical gap in public health.

Recommended Citation

Tomaka, DDS, Sarah (2026) "The Back Page: Helping the Homeless through the Delonis Oral Health Initiative," The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association: Vol. 108: No. 3, Article 16.
Available at: https://commons.ada.org/journalmichigandentalassociation/vol108/iss3/16