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The College of Dental Medicine-Arizona (CDMA) at ³ûÄñÊÓƵ is preparing to launch an inspiring new initiative - Community Dental Days. This quarterly event is designed to deliver comprehensive dental care to some of the most underserved and overlooked populations in the Valley. More than a standalone outreach, Community Dental Days marks the beginning of an ongoing, compassionate commitment to serve those in greatest need.

The first Community Dental Days event will welcome individuals who are rebuilding their lives following extreme hardship, including survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence, women reentering society after incarceration, individuals in recovery from substance use disorders, refugees, homeless mothers, and veterans. These individuals often face significant barriers to consistent dental care - barriers that ³ûÄñÊÓƵ is working to break down.

What distinguishes Community Dental Days from other outreach efforts is its long-term vision. Patients will receive high-quality dental care not only during the event itself, but as part of a lasting relationship with the . These individuals will be welcomed as ongoing patients, ensuring they have access to the continuous, follow-up care necessary to restore both oral health and personal dignity.

Building Partner Relationships, Learning Opportunities for Student Dentists

This initiative was born out of years of collaboration between ³ûÄñÊÓƵ and local nonprofit partners, including shelters, rehabilitation centers, veteran organizations, and refugee support services. As these relationships deepened, a clear need emerged: too many in our community live with untreated dental conditions because they lack access to reliable, affordable care. In response, CDMA has mobilized its students, faculty, and staff to meet this challenge with both clinical skill and human compassion.

Community Dental Days also serve as an invaluable learning opportunity for dental students. Prior to treating patients, students and faculty receive training in trauma-informed care, equipping them with the tools to approach treatment with empathy, cultural sensitivity, and respect for the diverse and often complex experiences of the individuals they serve. This emphasis on emotional intelligence and patient-centered care ensures that future dentists graduate with not only technical expertise but also a deep commitment to service.

Hosted at the state-of-the-art ³ûÄñÊÓƵ Dental Institute on the Glendale Campus, the event will leverage the expertise of CDMA faculty and the dedication of third- and fourth-year dental students. With 242 dental chairs, specialty suites, and advanced diagnostic technology, the Institute provides an ideal setting for delivering comprehensive, affordable care in a supportive environment.

Community Dental Days exemplify the mission of ³ûÄñÊÓƵ: to educate tomorrow’s healthcare team while improving the lives of those in our communities. By combining education, service, and compassion, ³ûÄñÊÓƵ is helping transform not just smiles - but lives.