Oral Cancer accounts for nearly two percent of all cancers diagnosed annually in the United States. Approximately 35,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer in 2010 and approximately 7,600 will die because of the disease. Through the efforts of the New York State legislature, the Oral Cancer Consortium, and advertising media, oral cancer awareness is at an all-time high among consumers. Moreover, the New York State Department of Education has instituted a mandatory Oral Cancer Education Program for all licensed dental providers.

This widespread knowledge and ongoing development of research opportunities demonstrating the connection of the oral cavity to the entire body and the role of the oral health care team is what Bronx-Lebanon’s Department of Dentistry thrives on.

The primary teaching programs are the General Practice and Pediatric Dental Residencies. Both these residencies are nationally recognized for their outstanding dedication in serving the underserved population. The Department of Dentistry has trained more ethnic minorities than any dental residency program in the United States. “Our mission to guide the graduates of the programs into careers in private practice, dental education, and community health service is being accomplished,”stated Dr. Paul E. Gates, Chairman, Dentistry.

The oral health care of a patient begins during the registration process. With dental related illness now the fifth most common cause of a visit to the Emergency Room, the Department of Dentistry’s clinical sites are prepared for both urgent and nonurgent care. Registrars work efficiently to assist patients with financial matters. All patients are seen, regardless of their ability to pay for care.

Dental Assistants initiate the evaluation by obtaining vital signs (including initial pain assessment), taking radiographs, and conveying information relevant for the assessment to the Dentist or Dental Hygienist. Support services, such as sterilization, supplies, and medical/dental record acquisition are essential to the day-to-day operational flow.

“We are a dynamic, responsive, and user-friendly team,” stated Dr. Leslie Smithey, Director, Clinics/Co-Director, General Practice Residency Program.
All dental services including dental hygiene, oral surgery, implants, endodontic, periodontic, orthodontic, pediatric, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency care are provided in six clinical sites, with more than 60,000 patient visits in 2009.