Tunxis Studying Dental Health-Food Insecurity Link

FARMINGTON, CT — A local state community college has received funding to study any potential correlations between food insecurity and dental problems.

The Delta Dental of New Jersey Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Delta Dental of New Jersey and Connecticut, has announced a grant to Tunxis Community College in Farmington.

The $12,788 award will fund research on whether there's a link between students who seek assistance via the school's food pantry and increased risk of tooth decay.

“Our mission at the Delta Dental Foundation is to improve the oral health of New Jersey and Connecticut residents by funding projects that address the oral health care challenges our neighbors and communities face,” said Dennis G. Wilson, president and CEO of Delta Dental of Connecticut and vice president of the Delta Dental Foundation.

“We are proud to be a leader in oral health care giving across Connecticut and we look forward to continuing our collaborations with our foundation grantees and partners on the path toward better health for all.”

Tunxis Community College is among seven organizations in Connecticut receiving part of more than $315,000 to support the oral and overall health of communities in the state.

The grants will provide support for more than 15,500 residents in Connecticut.

The contributions will help provide dental care to thousands of uninsured and underinsured seniors, intellectually and developmentally disabled adults and children, disadvantaged children, and veterans across the state.