2025 Courses and Events

Course #: 3280
Date: 11/30/2025
Time: 8:30am - 10:30am
Course Info: Half Day
Speaker(s):
Dan Fridh, DDS
John Osborn, DDS

Topic: Volunteerism
Tuition: $75.00
Credits: 2
AGD Number: 130 – Electives
Recommended For:
Dentists, Hygienists, Assistants, Students, Administrative Staff, Lab Technicians, Spouse, Educator

Description:

JOHN OSBORN, DDS

DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN AID PROJECTS
Millions of people around the world suffer from the consequences of poor oral health, often without access to even the most basic dental care. Geographic and financial barriers leave many dependent on the generosity of volunteer dental professionals who provide free treatment through humanitarian programs. This course offers an inspiring overview of both domestic efforts such as Remote Area Medical and Mission of Mercy and international programs including the Dominican Dental Mission Project and Health Volunteers Overseas. Participants will learn how these initiatives improve patient health outcomes in underserved communities and how to get involved as a volunteer, making a meaningful impact both at home and abroad.

DAN FRIDH, DDS

OPERATION: STAND DOWN – PROVIDING ESSENTIAL DENTAL CARE TO VETERANS
Operation: Stand Down is a volunteer-driven initiative created to deliver free dental care to Veterans in need many of whom fall outside the limited eligibility for VA dental services. The program begins with a designated screening day at a large dental office, where volunteer teams provide exams and X-rays for a large group of Veterans. Following the screenings, patients are matched with volunteer dentists who have committed to providing essential services such as cleanings, restorations, and extractions at no cost. More advanced treatment needs are coordinated directly between the dentist and the Veteran.
With the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs currently providing dental care to only about 8% of the Veteran population, an estimated 10 million Veterans go without necessary oral healthcare. Operation: Stand Down plays a critical role in improving the health, comfort, and dignity of those who have served our country.

Support for this program is provided by