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by Dr. Catrise Austin | February 18, 2025

Access to affordable dental care is a growing challenge in the United States. Millions of Americans struggle with untreated cavities and other oral health issues due to high costs or lack of insurance. According to the CDC, 1 in 4 adults have untreated cavities, and 74 million Americans lack dental insurance. This crisis disproportionately impacts underserved communities, where oral health disparities are often tied to socioeconomic and racial inequities.

 
This episode of Let’s Talk Smiles sheds light on the real-life implications of these disparities and highlights solutions that are making a difference.

Dr. Joshua Golden, a Miami native, shared his inspiring journey into dentistry. Growing up in Liberty City, Florida, Dr. Golden didn’t have access to mentors or resources to guide him into the field. 

A summer program at Columbia University and mentorship from Dr. Dennis Mishrew changed his life, leading him to pursue dentistry instead of medicine.
“I didn’t see anyone who looked like me in dentistry,” Dr. Golden explained. This lack of representation fueled his passion to create The Golden Foundation, which supports Black and Brown students aspiring to enter the dental profession.

Dr. Golden’s work with Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps (RAM) is an example of how healthcare providers can make a tangible difference. RAM organizes mobile clinics to bring free dental, vision, and medical care to underserved areas.

The upcoming Miami Gardens RAM event on April 26-27, 2025, will offer critical dental services, including cleanings, extractions, and fillings, to patients on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Programs like RAM are essential because they help people who would otherwise fall through the cracks,” Dr. Golden said.

Resources Mentioned:

Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps (RAM): ramusa.org
7-Day Smile Workout Challenge: vipsmiles.com/challenge
The Golden Foundation: https://www.mygoldenfoundation.com/
Affordable Dental Care in the USA – Top 5 Resources (Dr. Catrise Austin): https://vipsmiles.com/affordable-dental-care-a-dr-catrise-austin-guide/
West Sunrise Dentistry: https://www.westsunrisedentistry.com/
Free Dentistry Event Miami April 26th and 27th: https://www.ramusa.org/events/miami-gardens-florida/

Watch the full episode on YouTube here. 

Prevention is the cornerstone of good oral health. Dr. Austin emphasizes the importance of daily brushing, flossing, using alcohol-free mouthwash, and cleaning your tongue.

To take your oral care to the next level, join the 7-Day Smile Workout Challenge! This free program offers daily tips and videos to help you and your family maintain a healthy, confident smile. 

Sign up today at vipsmiles.com/challenge.

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