Bulletin of Dental Education Article

A.T. Still University (ATSU) and the International College of Dentists (ICD) are pleased to announce that Herbert Silva, D.M.D., FICD, A.T. Still University Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-MOSDOH) Assistant Professor, Comprehensive Care Director, and leader of the Dentures for Veterans Project at the St. Louis Dental Center, has received the ICD Distinguished Humanitarian Award, USA Section, as presented during its 90th Annual Convocation in Nashville, TN. 

ICD is the preeminent honor society of the world's outstanding dentists involved in serving others. ICD is dedicated to the recognition of outstanding professional achievement, meritorious service and the continued progress in the profession of dentistry for the benefit of all humankind. The college presented Dr. Silva with an engraved plaque to honor his extraordinary dedication and commitment to serve those in need.

“As a Marine Corps veteran who served in Vietnam and dental educator, Dr. Herbert Silva has a passion for dentistry and advocating for access to oral health care for disadvantaged, vulnerable and marginalized populations, especially veterans. His commitment to serve, with an ability to connect and build relationships with the veterans, is remarkable,” said Dwight E. McLeod, D.D.S., M.S., ATSU-MOSDOH Dean and Professor of Periodontics.

“As the Smiles for Veterans project director, Dr. Silva’s meritorious service is deserving of the ICD, USA Section, Distinguished Humanitarian Award. On behalf of the St. Louis Dental Center family, I congratulate Dr. Silva for this outstanding achievement,” added Dr. McLeod.

Through a unique partnership between ATSU-MOSDOH and Affinia Healthcare, the St. Louis Dental Center is a federally qualified health center serving underserved and vulnerable populations. Many veterans have no health insurance or access to quality oral health care.

“This is our eighth year of welcoming veterans to the St. Louis Dental Center for no cost, affordable care. Our services are important because only 15% of veterans are eligible for dental care through the Veterans Administration,” said Dr. Silva. “When veterans are not in pain and can smile again, they are more likely to engage with work, family and socialization. These meaningful connections can prevent isolation and desperation.” 

To date, more than 1,000 veterans have been screened and treated, and over 590 veterans have received more than 1,000 arches of full and partial dentures at no cost to the recipient veteran.

In addition to Dr. Silva’s award, over 275 dentists from the U.S. and four honorary members will be inducted into the college. With representative chapters in more than 138 countries, the college has over 12,000 members, including about 6,000 in the U.S.   

Courtesy of A.T. Still University Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health