History of KKV’s Dental Program
Dr. Breese painting KKV’s original Dental trailer with students.
The dental program at KKV was established in 1973 with used military trailers and volunteered time and services provided by Dr. Ron Carlson. In 1979, Dr. David Breese arrived at KKV and the dental program grew with KKV to new facilities on Gulick Avenue, then to a new 6- operatory clinic on School Street, and then to its current location in the Wellness Center with 12-operatories.
In 1995, KKV launched a school-based dental sealant pilot program at Fern Elementary School. The first of its kind in the state, the program was developed in response to extensive State cutbacks in funds for dental services and aimed to provide preventive dentistry for those most likely to benefit from early intervention. In 2014, with generous support from Hawaii Dental Service, the program grew to become a converted Ford Van with two dental operatories.
In 2002, KKV brought the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency to Hawaii through Lutheran Medical Center (now through NYU Langone). Under the direction of Dr. Samuel Ishimura, this residency has grown to other health centers across the state and helps to increase access to dental care and advanced care provided by dental specialists. In addition to its AEGD residency, KKV also hosts a residency in pediatric dentistry and dental public health.
In 2019, KKV celebrated with Dr. Breese for his 40+ years of dedication to help build the dental program. In recognition of the dental program’s growth over the years under Dr. Breese’s leadership, and the fact that it encompasses more than just a dental clinic, the program was renamed the David R. Breese Center for Community Oral Health.
