Most veterans currently enrolled in the Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system are ineligible for VA dental benefits because they do not have service-connected dental issues.

To help close the oral health care gap for veterans, students in the School of Dental Medicine participated in the 2025 Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs Stand Down—an annual event that connects Connecticut veterans with essential services and programs offered by federal, state, and local agencies, organizations, and non-profits.

“I am so honored to have had the opportunity to share resources and provide oral screenings to this incredible population that has sacrificed so much for us,” said Marissa Airoldi, third-year dental student leader. “Getting to sit with them and hear their stories was such a privilege in itself. They were so overwhelmed with gratitude for us just being there, when it is them, we are eternally grateful to!”

A total of 18 dental students, comprising of 5 second-year, and 13 third-year students, screened approximately 93 veterans, and provided over 100 veterans with educational resources on oral health care.

“As a future dental provider, I am always finding ways to get to know the community I am serving, and the veterans Stand Down event allowed me the opportunity to connect with veterans and give back to individuals who have done so much for our country. It was truly an honor to serve them during this special event,” said Madison Witt, third-year dental student.

This is the third year that the School of Dental Medicine participated in this event to deliver oral health screenings, hand out supplies such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and denture cleaner, and distribute important information on resources for veterans.

This year, the students stationed at five regional locations: Bridgeport, Danbury, Norwich, Stamford, and Southington.

Daniel Kotait, a third-year student said, “I had a great time at the veteran’s Stand Down event in Norwich. I’m grateful for the chance to give back and support veterans in a very tangible way.”

Not only did the students provide essential services for veterans, but they also gained valuable clinical learning experience as they worked alongside several faculty members.

“It was an honor to serve those who have served our country,” said third-year student Kara Christensen. “I’m grateful to have the opportunity to give back to veterans in a meaningful way.”

UConn School of Dental Medicine’s efforts to address the dental care needs of veterans are made possible with philanthropic support, including the Delta Dental Foundation’s support of our Open Wide for Veterans initiative.