Why Dental Care Matters for the Unhoused

As we continue the month of June, our focus remains on the healthcare challenges faced by the unhoused community. Today, I want to address an often-overlooked issue: dental and oral health among people experiencing homelessness.

Dental care is a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being, yet it remains a significant challenge for people experiencing homelessness. The lack of access to dental services, financial constraints, and the absence of basic oral hygiene resources (toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss) exacerbate oral health problems, leading to pain, infections, loos of teeth, and a diminished quality of life.

Imagine enduring severe toothaches without access to pain relief or experiencing difficulty eating and speaking due to untreated dental issues, especially when you have no control over what food you are provided. These struggles not only impact physical health but the chronic pain adds emotional and psychological burdens to those already facing adversity.

At City Relief, we are dedicated to improving dental and oral health outcomes for the unhoused. Through partnerships, we strive to address immediate dental concerns and create sustainable solutions for ongoing care. One service that we refer our friends to is the NYU School of Dentistry. They recently expended a program to meet the dental needs for people in shelters, abused women and senior centers.

However, we cannot accomplish this without your support. Your involvement can make a substantial difference in the lives of individuals struggling with all varieties of health issues. 

Let's come together to break down the barriers preventing our unhoused neighbors from accessing the dental care they desperately need. Together, we can restore dignity, alleviate pain, and improve the overall health of our community.

Thank you for your ongoing support and unwavering dedication to transforming lives.

With Gratitude,

Josiah Haken