Presque Isle clinic to offer free dental care Nov. 1

4 years ago

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Maine dentists, dental specialists, hygienists and office staff members will volunteer their time this Friday, November 1, to provide free care during the 11th annual Dentists Who Care for ME.

The St. Apollonia Dental Clinic in Presque Isle will be one of the participating practices, and will open its doors from 8 am to noon. The clinic is located at 122 Academy Street.

The program offers basic oral care services (cleanings, fillings or extractions) for adults who have no other access to dental care, as well as referrals to specialists.

People wishing to receive treatment are encouraged to arrive early at the participating dental offices to secure an appointment, as slots fill very quickly. Appointments will not be taken prior to Nov. 1, and appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Vouchers for free services by dental specialists will be distributed by the referring dentist to patients who need more comprehensive procedures.

The annual day of free care has examined and treated more than 4,000 patients and provided services valued at nearly $1.3 million since its inception.

The Maine Dental Association is again offering its help to organize Dentists Who Care for ME.

“The MDA is pleased to continue its support of this important program,” said Executive Director Angela Cole Westhoff.  “It is just one of many ways that dentists give back to their communities all year round.”

The University of New England College of Dental Medicine, which will be opening their Oral Health Center, and practices throughout the state are seeing patients during this year’s Dentists Who Care for ME.

For a full list of practices that are participating, go to www.medental.org, click on Dentists Who Care for ME, and click on Locations.