Iowa
Local Hero: Dr. D

“When we give of ourselves, we always get back much more in return,” says Dr. D. After 11 years in Michigan, Dr. D has now practiced general dentistry in Iowa City for 12 years. In 2004, he became Iowa’s first Donated Dental Services (DDS) volunteer. At the time, the organization was coordinated out of Denver. “We do have a free clinic here,” Dr. D. recalls, “but I had difficulty getting down there. When the opportunity came up to volunteer for DDS, it was a nice way to share and to give something back.” His first DDS patient was an older man who, despite his intelligence, suffered from mental illness and couldn’t hold a job. As the son of a dentist, the patient was highly aware that he needed restorative work that included fillings and crowns. “When he finally had a chance to get the work done, he was really appreciative,” says Dr. D. “DDS does such a wonderful job screening applicants. The patients are really the ones who fall through the cracks. They are so appreciative, which is all you need as a thank-you when you’ve finished the work. We’re blessed to be in a great profession and to have the opportunity to directly impact people in such a profound way.”