In observance of Veterans Day on November 11, Dentsply Sirona has reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to improving access to oral healthcare for US veterans. Through both organizational initiatives and employee-led volunteerism, the company continues to collaborate with Dental Lifeline Network (DLN) to expand clinical care opportunities for underserved veteran populations.
As part of its global sustainability strategy, BEYOND: Taking Action for a Brighter World, Dentsply Sirona has extended its long-standing partnership with DLN through 2026. The company has made a $30,000 contribution—comprising both financial support and in-kind donations of CEREC blocks—to assist DLN’s Lifeline Heroes Challenge program for veterans. During the recent DS World event in Las Vegas, DLN representatives connected directly with dental professionals to promote volunteer involvement in their programs.
Parallel to these efforts, members of Dentsply Sirona’s employee resource group, VETERANS@DS, organized a local initiative to assemble 500 oral health kits for veterans in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. Each kit contains basic oral hygiene supplies along with information on accessing free dental treatment through DLN’s national network of volunteer clinicians and laboratories. Distribution is being coordinated through area shelters and hospitals.
These initiatives align with Dentsply Sirona’s broader sustainability goals, which emphasize health equity, community engagement, and professional collaboration within the dental sector.
The VETERANS@DS group supports active-duty service members and veterans in their transition to civilian careers, fostering connection and mentorship across the organization. Its work includes professional development programming and partnerships that promote inclusion and mutual support. The group’s Veterans Day projects reflect its broader mission to honor and assist those who have served.
Dentsply Sirona’s collaboration with DLN dates back to 1999 and includes financial contributions as well as visibility at events like DS World to encourage volunteer participation among dental professionals. Over time, this partnership has contributed more than $500,000 in combined donations to support care for veterans, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. Through DLN’s network of 12,000 volunteer dentists and 3,300 laboratories, veterans receive medically necessary care at no cost—restoring oral function, health, and comfort.
A recent example from DLN’s program highlights the tangible impact of this work. Jerry, a 72-year-old Army veteran from Washington, required urgent dental treatment prior to beginning cancer therapy. With help from DLN, Dr. Duane Jones and a collaborating oral surgeon and dental laboratory provided extractions, restorations, and dentures at no charge, allowing Jerry to proceed with his life-saving medical care.
“As we honor Veterans Day, we want to express our gratitude by taking meaningful action,” says Yoshi Johnson, Product Brand Manager Endodontics at Dentsply Sirona, Chair of the VETERANS@DS employee resource group and member of DLN’s Board of Directors. “For us, this day is about giving back to those who have served and ensuring they receive the care and recognition they deserve. By joining forces with DLN, we can help veterans not only access the dental treatment they need but also feel the appreciation and support of our employees, who are deeply committed to strengthening their communities.”
“Dentsply Sirona’s continued partnership and generous support make a real difference in helping veterans receive life-changing dental care,” added Clair Diones, Vice President of Marketing at Dental Lifeline Network. “For many veterans, dental care is not only essential for their health but also for their confidence and quality of life. Through initiatives like this and our long-term partnership, we are restoring smiles, self-esteem and dignity for those who have given so much in service.”
