Local dentists, staffs offering free dental care to those in need
By Kirsten Ballard
Published in News on September 19, 2014 1:46 PM
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News-Argus/CASEY MOZINGO
Dr. Orlando Stovall numbs the gums of Gladys Sutton during the Dentistry from the Heart free dental clinic at his office this morning with the assistance of Vivian Taylor. Six dentists and numerous dental assistants, hygienists and other volunteers donated their time today to provide dental services to people who cannot afford them on their own.
Dee Sauls had a long wait ahead of her.
She was No. 143 of the 150 people waiting for free dental care today.
But she said the wait didn't bother her. She drove from Eureka this morning to get in line. She brought a book and a seat and said she was happy to sit patiently to wait for her procedure.
"I'm tickled to death they're doing this," she said.
Dr. Orlando Stovall's practice, Stovall Family Dentistry, paired with Dentistry from the Heart to offer free cleanings, fillings and extractions to the community today, starting at 7 a.m. and continuing until 5 p.m.
Dentistry from the Heart is a non-profit organization that provides free dental work for people who otherwise couldn't afford it.
"This is a wonderful thing. I just thank God," Ms. Sauls said.
The line started at 5 a.m. and by the time the doors opened, 150 people were waiting outside of the clinic.
The event is co-hosted by St. Andrew's Episcopal Church.
"We like to look to the needs of the community," the Rev. Mary Reese said. The church hosted a fundraiser in July in preparation for the clinic. Church members volunteered to help with registration, check-out and blood pressure checks.
Stovall, a member at St. Andrew's, believes in giving back to the community. He was joined by five other dentists and more than 30 volunteers clad in "Smile, it's free" T-shirts. His staff and the volunteers had been preparing and organizing since 6 a.m.
"It's for people with no other means. Those who feel they can't afford dental care," Stovall said.
There are plans to make this an annual event.
"You've got to spread smiles, and that's what they're doing here," Ms. Sauls said.