Hidden Pain – How A Lack Of Dental Care Worsens Living Situations For Homelessness & Unsheltered

More Than Just A Toothache

When you think of someone experiencing homelessness or living unsheltered, the causes that first come to mind may be; unemployment, substance abuse, mental or physical illness, lack of affordable housing, domestic violence, etc. Though these issues are what can cause or lead to homelessness, the state of your body and mind becomes so damaged it is hard to escape a period of homelessness once one begins. Homelessness affects one's ability to eat, sleep, or interact with normal, everyday people. However, one issue that is underlooked in this is how poor dental health can worsen conditions of homelessness.

The Cycle Of Poor Oral Health

When we apply for a job, a loan, or even are in public settings, our physical appearance means a lot. That goes for the clothes we wear and our physical appearance. When folks are experiencing homelessness, it is very difficult to have a professional or clean appearance. A major issue has to do with the access of oral and dental health. With poor oral health, one's physical appearance may be seen in a negative way. Trying to find employment or finding housing may be difficult to accomplish with poor oral health due to potential threats of foul smelling breath, gum disease, or tooth decay.

Physical appearance matters a lot especially when applying for a job. Without a job to provide a stable income, it makes it extremely difficult to escape being homeless. To expand off of this cycle, it is not just employment that is affected but also one's personal health. Risk of tooth decay and gum disease can lead to oral infections and other diseases that are harder to cover. With a lack of adequate access to healthcare, dental and oral health infections can worsen one's overall health. 

Organizations Providing Solutions

Fortunately, some programs are working to bridge the gap:

• National Health Care for the Homeless Council – Advocates for better healthcare access for homeless individuals, including dental care.

• Mission of Mercy – Provides free dental services through mobile clinics in various U.S. states.

• Remote Area Medical (RAM) – Offers free pop-up dental clinics for those in need, including the homeless.

 

Restoring Dignity: How Dental Care Helps Homeless Veterans Build Their Healthy Life

Unforeseen Health Issues Among Veterans

When we typically think of the struggles that homeless veterans endure returning from combat, we typically think of broader issues such as mental health and unemployment. As these issues are very devastating and disastrous to both one's mental and physical well being, one specific area that is severely under
looked is their access to healthcare. More specifically, is their access to oral and dental health. 

Why Homeless Veterans Struggle With Dental Care

Dental care is not fully covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) unless a veteran is 100% disabled or was a prisoner of war. Because of these strict requirements, there are still thousands of homeless veterans who have no access to basic oral care or even tools to maintain oral hygiene. Because of this, many suffer from tooth decay, gum disease, and various oral infections. 

With poor oral hygiene from lack of access and affordability, this makes it harder to find a job. Without being able to have a stable income, it makes it even harder for veterans to be able to receive the care that they need. 

Programs Reaching Out

Despite the struggles that veterans face regarding their oral healthcare, we still see that there are other various sources and networks reaching out to help 

• The VA Homeless Veterans Dental Program provides partial care depending on the health and current diagnoses of a veteran

• Stand Down Events across the country is a group of volunteers who come together to help veterans be given food, clothing, and health screenings, as well as referrals to housing, employment, substance abuse treatment, and mental health counseling

• Nonprofit organizations like Homeless Not Toothless is a great source for homeless and unsheltered individuals to have oral care they desperately require

Why This Matters

Despite the major political divide in our country, one thing should be very clear; we need to treat our veterans when they return home. As these men and women help protect us from potential threats around the world, they deserve to be treated with the proper care they deserve upon returning home. Similar to post World War II, we should strive as a country to help our veterans return to their feet by offering more access to services including oral and dental healthcare. Dental care should not be a privilege, it should be a right to every American and especially those who have sacrificed their lives for our country. 

Resources To Reach Out 

Homeless Not Toothless 

https://www.homelessnottoothless.org/

Stand Down Events

 https://www.va.gov/homeless/events.asp

Bridging the Gap: A Former Public Health Worker on Healthcare and Homelessness

An Interview with Jean Dentinger

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, yet for people experiencing homelessness, it remains one of the most significant challenges they face. In this interview, we sit down with Jean Dentinger, a former public health outreach professional, to discuss the real barriers unhoused individuals encounter when seeking medical care. From systemic hurdles to the personal struggles of building trust, Jean shares invaluable insights on what’s needed to bridge the gap between healthcare services and the people who need them most.

The full interview can be accessed and viewed with this link:  

https://youtu.be/Hce5Wi1ZO04

Understanding these challenges is just the first step. Providing healthcare to unhoused individuals isn't just about offering services, it’s about fostering trust, reducing stigma, and creating sustainable solutions. If you want to learn more or support organizations working on this issue, check out the resources listed at the end of this video. Together, we can advocate for a healthcare system that truly serves everyone.

Resources: 

https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/project-respond-effective-response-homeless-mentally-ill-police-and#:~:text=Project%20Respond%20is%20a%20crisis,urban%20core%20of%20Portland%2C%20Oregon.

https://www.samhsa.gov/communities/homelessness-programs-resources/

https://www.hhs.gov/programs/social-services/homelessness/resources/

https://healthcenter.multco.us/current-patients/find-more-support/mobile-clinic

https://outsidein.org/health-services/mobile/

https://centralcityconcern.org/health-care-location/mobile-health/

Teledentistry: A Game-Changer for Accessible Dental Care

Online oral health appointments are helping to expand access to dental care for underserved groups.

Going to the dentist isn’t exactly the average person’s idea of a great time, but for many, it’s not even an option. Cost, scheduling, and a lack of access to providers can make regular checkups impossible. And without regular checkups, small issues can go unnoticed, snowballing into major life-altering (and expensive) emergencies.

But what if a dentist could come to you—at least virtually? That’s where teledentistry comes in.

What is Teledentistry?

It’s exactly what it sounds like—dentistry, but online. Using video calls, photos, and digital tools, teledentistry lets you consult with a dentist without stepping into a clinic. Long commutes? Gone. Waiting rooms? Eliminated. Pants? Unnecessary—but you better still be wearing them anyways. All you need to do to talk to a dentist is just hop on a video call, or send in photos of your teeth for review. A dentist on the other end will take a look, then give you advice on your next steps.

It’s no replacement for in-person visits, but it’s a great option for the simple things—like consultations, follow-ups, and basic screenings—the ones where you would have had to block out half a day for only a 10 minute conversation.

Who Can This Help?

The short answer? A lot of people.

• People in rural or underserved areas – Many communities don’t have easy access to a dentist, but a virtual consultation can help determine if an in-person visit is even necessary.

• Busy individuals and families – Instead of taking time off from work or school, patients can get quick guidance from a professional online.

• Houseless individuals – Housing struggles can make it difficult to find opportunities to see a dentist, even with low-cost or no-cost options available—but teledentistry allows anyone to see a dentist as long as they have a device with internet access.

• Those facing financial barriers – Teledentistry is often more affordable than a full office visit, with some services even being covered by Medicaid or low-cost programs.

What’s the Catch?

You’ll never get a filling over Zoom. Teledentistry won’t ever replace in-person visits, but it can bridge the gap for people who otherwise wouldn't see a dentist at all. And that’s a big deal.

More clinics are starting to offer virtual consultations, and as tech continues to improve, this could become a game-changer for dental care access.

Want to learn more about teledentistry? Check out the nonprofit CareQuest Institute for Oral Health and see how teledentistry stacks up against traditional care.

Need Free Dental Care? PCC’s Dental Clinic is Looking for Patients

The PCC Dental Clinic is offering free Dental Care to anyone who schedules an appointment.

Dental care is expensive—there’s no getting around that. Even a basic cleaning can cost more than you’d expect, and anything beyond that? You’d better have good insurance. Fortunately, if you’re needing a trip to the dentist (but your wallet’s got severe dentophobia), PCC runs a free dental clinic right on the Portland State campus downtown. And they’re currently looking for patients.

If you’ve been putting off a trip to the dentist because of cost, this might be exactly what you need.

What the PCC Dental Clinic Offers

The PCC Dental Clinic, located in the Vanport Building at PSU, is staffed by dental hygiene and dental assisting students. It’s a teaching clinic where students provide care under the supervision and guidance of licensed professionals, and as long as you schedule ahead, the services are available to anyone. Since it’s part of a training program though, the appointments can take longer than usual—but in exchange, you get free, high-quality dental care.

Here’s what they offer:

• Dental exams and X-rays

• Teeth cleanings (regular and deep cleanings)

• Fluoride treatments and sealants

• Basic fillings

• Oral health screenings

They don’t handle emergencies or more complex procedures like root canals, crowns, or extractions; but if you’re looking for routine care, it’s a solid option—especially considering that the only cost is your time.

Why This is Worth Your Time

Because this is a teaching clinic, there’s a time commitment. Procedures may need multiple appointments, and each of those can last up to 3.5 hours—not ideal if you’re in a hurry, but the price is unbeatable. If the time commitment isn’t a deal-breaker for you, they actually need more patients right now, meaning it’s a great time to secure an appointment. New patients are admitted by waitlist, and the clinic isn’t open during the summer—meaning you’ll want to grab a spot now before all of the Spring slots fill up.

How to Schedule an Appointment

If this sounds like something you—or someone you know—could use, getting started is easy. They don’t take walk-ins, but all you have to do to secure an appointment is reach out to one of their contact methods below.

Location: 1810 SW 5th Ave, 3rd Floor, Portland, OR 97201
Phone: 971-722-4909
Email: dentalclinic@pcc.edu

Want more info? Check out the PCC Dental Clinic Website here! 

Spots won’t stay open forever, so if you’ve been putting off that dental visit, now’s the time to take advantage of this. Call or email today to book an appointment.

How Plastic Microbeads Are Causing Big Problems

Lush Cosmetics is a company which is devoted to creating vegetarian, eco-friendly, and sustainable beauty products for men and women. Not long ago, Lush released an informative video about Microbeads and how we can help prevent the further production of the nasty Micro-plastic which can be found in our toothpaste, facial cleansers and home care supplies.

  If you believe in saving our oceanic wildlife sign the petition to eliminate plastic microbeads in our waters!

Sources

http://www.lushusa.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bic7QEVRNe4
http://www.5gyres.org/

Heres to another bill banning Microbeads!

In the month of November a measure to ban Microbeads in Columbus, Ohio was introduced by state representatives, John Patterson and Kent Smith.  Lake Eerie in Michigan, is one of the largest fresh water ecosystems in the world and the ban on Microbeads will surely help to keep this body of water and all of its creatures clean and healthy!

Click here to read more!

Sources

http://www.monroenews.com/news/2015/nov/28/bill-banning-microbeads-makes-debut-ohio-legislatu/

http://www.beatthemicrobead.org/en/bill-banning-microbeads-makes-debut-in-ohio-legislature

Fracking and Climate Change

Hydraulic fracturing, commonly known as ‘fracking’, is a drilling technique used to obtain oil and natural gas from deep in the ground. Patented in 1949 by Halliburton, the practice has expanded and advanced through today, with many companies taking part in this technique. The companies drill deep holes into the earth and cases it with steel and cement, then they pump a mixture of sand, water and chemicals into the well at high pressures, fracturing the rock, allowing natural gasses to flow out of the rock, through the tunnel to the surface where it is treated and removed. Generally, the wells ‘dry up’ within a few years, then they are plugged and the companies move on to other areas. Since 9/11 and conflicts with many countries with high rates of oil production and export, fracking has seen a boom in the U.S., in the last five years alone the U.S. has a daily increase of 3.7 million barrels of oil, dropping the import of oil by 44%. In 2012, the U.S. became the #1 producer of natural gas, removing Russia from the top spot. Obviously, this has been good for the economy of the U.S. but has it been good for our environment?

Environmental Impact:

With fracking, the use of natural gases have become much more abundant than the use of oil and coal. Natural gases output carbon dioxide at less than half the rate of oil and coal, which should be a good thing for the atmosphere. But, what studies are finding is that because the natural gases are more abundant suddenly (because of the prevalence of fracking), and cheaper than coal and oil imported from the Middle East, the rates of consumption have gone up, thus increasing the lowered rates of carbon output. Another problem with fracking is the release of natural gases into the atmosphere while drilling. Methane is the gas that could have the most alarming consequences, being 72 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period, trapping heat in the atmosphere. Besides affecting the atmosphere, fracking has had negative effects on our nation’s human water supply, variously from leaks into communities’ ground water supplies and drinking wells to the high volume of water needed to use for the process itself. There have also been a number of earthquakes directly related to fracking practices. Another extremely unfortunate side effect of fracking is that it has taken the focus and funding away from actual clean energy resources that would not be harmful to the environment, such as solar and wind energy. With the funding going mostly towards fracking, solar and wind power research and technology funding has suffered greatly, unable to make strides towards clean energy. How can we shift funding back towards clean energy that is safer for personal health and safer for environmental health to slow down climate change?

Watch this Documentary:

Check out these links: 

http://www.livescience.com/39406-fracking-wasterwater-injection-caused-ohio-earthquakes.html?li_source=LI&li_medium=most-popular&li_campaign=related-test

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/peopleandpower/2014/10/american-power-fracking-boom-2014101121933879758.html

http://news.discovery.com/earth/global-warming/fracking-makes-climate-change-worse-not-better-141015.htm

http://grist.org/climate-energy/edf-defends-its-controversial-study-of-methane-leaks-from-fracking-wells/

http://insideclimatenews.org/news/05062015/fracking-has-contaminated-drinking-water-epa-now-concludes

Climate Change and Human Health

When we hear about climate change, the first thing that comes to our minds is environment, animals, plants, and earth temperature. However, we always miss another important part that would suffer from this issue as well as other living creatures. Humans health can be affected by climate change through  a variety of pathways, for instance as a result of increased frequency and concentration of heat waves, , increased floods and droughts, changes in the distribution of vector-borne diseases and malnutrition. Climate change is a very critical public health issue that is affecting and will affect a wide majority of people around the world.  Children, elderly people, the poor, and those with fundamental health condition are the most vulnerable people for health effect from climate change. 

Although the impacts of climate change have the potential to affect human health in the United States and around the world, there is a lot we can do to prepare for and adapt to these changes. All public health and global health organizations and local agencies are collaborating together in order to support development of healthy cities that are prepared for climate change. One of the adaptation methods that are used to reduce climate change effect is planning urban adaptation strategies by planting trees to minimize heat buildup in cities and manage storm water, or promoting the use of cool roofs to reduce energy needs and improve air quality. But what can normal people do to protect their health?

We can do many things in order to reduce climate change effects by simply reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Planting your garden or your neighborhood would make a different and would make your surrounding much healthier.  Donating for global health agencies to improve low income countries environment would increase the possibilities to save others lives.

For more information: 
http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/impacts-adaptation/health.html

Allergy Sufferers Unite Against Climate Change!

Blog Series: Climate Change and your Health
by Karen Cooper

Climate change is resulting in longer, warmer summers in the U.S.  In fact, in parts of the northern U.S. and Canada you can bask in warmer weather for almost a month longer than was possible in 1995. Long summers used to be a rarer treat that could be rightfully savored.  But a trend of warmer summers has sounded the alarm bells for allergy-sufferers. 

If you’re an allergy-sufferer, grab your favorite neti pot and brace. Allergens have joined the climate change party with a vengeance. The warmer weather is facilitating the northward creep of pollen-making machines like ragweed. Ragweed is already notorious for its talents of proliferation and one plant can produce about a billion grains of pollen in a season. To add insult to injury, Ragweed has been shown to show greatly increased pollen production when more carbon dioxide is present. Ragweed is almost impossible to eradicate. The way to strike back at ragweed is to target its enabler: climate change.  

  
Join the fight against climate change and allergies! 

One way to stop climate change is to reduce the burning of fossil fuels. The fuel cars burn contribute a great deal of the pollution that cause global warming and climate change.

Five everyday things you can do to fight climate change (take that ragweed!)

>> Use public transportation more (use ear  
     buds and relax!)

>> Carpool

>> Ride your bike

>> Keep your car maintained to proper
     standards

>> Keep cleaning products and chemicals
     well-sealed to prevent evaporation

Pollen trackers to help manage your allergies...
Check out this web site that has links to pollen trackers and widgets that will help you manage your allergies… then you can concentrate on fighting climate change! http://www.health.com/health/condition-article/0,,20292425,00.html

Sources:

http://www.epa.gov/region8/climatechange/KnowledgeBuildingSeriesClimateChangeHumanHealthAndWelfare.pdf -- Knowledge Building Series: Climate Change, Human Health and Welfare

http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/ - Climate change: what you can do

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ragweed - Ragweed

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2011-02/usdo-usc022211.php - USDA study confirms links between longer ragweed season and climate change