Saluting Veterans with Compassion: Dr. Makkar’s Role in NYSDF’s Mission

Dr. Parul Dua Makkar is widely respected in her Long Island community. As a skilled clinician, a leader, and a passionate advocate for oral health. But beyond her daily practice at PDM Family Dental, she has also committed herself to serving one of our most deserving but often underserved populations: our veterans. Through the New York State Dental Foundation's "Salute Vets with a Smile" initiative, Dr. Makkar has generously donated her time and expertise to provide essential dental care to veterans who might otherwise lack access.

The NYSDF launched "Salute Vets with a Smile" to address the gap in dental care for veterans, many of whom do not qualify for VA dental benefits, despite having urgent oral health needs. As a participating volunteer, Dr. Makkar is part of a dedicated network of NYSDA member dentists stepping in to fill this critical need. In doing so, she ensures that veterans receive not only routine screenings but also the restorative and preventive treatments they deserve.

Dr. Makkar's involvement reflects more than professional generosity. It's deeply personal. As a physician who believes strongly in the role of oral health to support overall well-being, she understands how neglect of dental care can affect quality of life. By volunteering her practice, she helps provide dignity, relief, and a path back to wellness for veterans who may have gone long without care.

Her work with the NYSDF has been recognized by the Foundation and by her peers. The Foundation explicitly thanks the "Dental Heroes" who have stepped forward to treat veterans. For Dr. Makkar, this kind of recognition is secondary to the impact. She is motivated by service, by gratitude to veterans, and by the real change she sees in each patient who walks out of her chair with a healthier smile.

Moreover, Dr. Makkar's contribution underscores a broader mission of the NYSDF: to improve access to dental care for New York's most vulnerable populations, including those who are elderly, medically fragile, or have served our country. Through her volunteerism, she helps the Foundation carry out this mission in a meaningful, hands-on way. Her example also encourages other dentists to lend their talents, reinforcing a community-wide commitment to generosity and care.

In sum, Dr. Parul Makkar's participation in the "Salute Vets with a Smile" program is a powerful testament to how one clinician can make a profound difference. Her gift of time and skill is more than just pro bono work. It's a statement of solidarity, gratitude, and compassion toward veterans. As more professionals follow her lead and as more veterans receive the care they need, the NYSDF's vision of oral health equity comes a little closer to reality.

NYSDF Certificate Of Appreciation

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