Media Advisory: New Dental Program to hold Ribbon Cutting

BUFFALO, N.Y. – The University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine will unveil a new Rural Dentistry Pilot Program at a ribbon cutting ceremony in Cuba, N.Y. The program will expand the school’s mobile school-based dental services into Alleghany and Cattaraugus counties.

When: The event is scheduled for Friday, March 20 at 12:30 p.m.

Where: The program will be held at Cuba-Rushford Elementary School at 15 Elm Street in Cuba, N.Y. 14727.

Why: The pilot will bring dental care to geographically isolated areas and study approaches to overcome barriers unique to rural, under-served regions. Despite the widespread knowledge of the importance of oral health and its implications, disparities are evident in dental care access, use, and outcomes in rural America.

SDM received funding to introduce the program through the Legislative Commission on Rural Resources. The commission’s chair, State Sen. Catherine Young, will attend the ceremony.

“The UB School of Dental Medicine is excited to participate in this program that will expand access to oral health care, and increase dental student awareness of rural health issues,” says Michael Glick, professor and dean of SDM.

“We are educating a group of future health care professionals, some of whom will ideally choose to practice and live in rural communities. At the University at Buffalo and the School of Dental Medicine, our purpose – our promise – is to reach others. It’s a promise that knows no boundaries.”

Representatives from the Allegany County Health Department and Cuba Cultural Foundation, and Cuba-Rushford School District superintendent Carlos Gildemeister will also attend.