SKOWHEGAN — Northwoods Dental, at 327 North Ave. in Skowhegan, will offer free teeth cleanings, fillings or extractions from 8 a.m. to noon Friday for people who cannot afford regular dental care and do not have dental insurance coverage.
The free dental work is part of the seventh annual Dentists Who Care for ME in nine Maine communities. About 27 dentists and 20 specialists will volunteer their time on Friday. Dentists Who Care for ME offers one oral care service or a referral to an oral surgeon if needed.
“It’s just something that we thought we could do for people,” said Dr. Demi Kouzounas, a Skowhegan dentist and one of the organizers of the event. “For a lot of people, just one appointment a year can make a big difference.”
The free care being offered Friday includes cleanings, fillings, extractions or referral to a specialist. People will be able to get one treatment each.
People wishing to receive treatment are encouraged to arrive early at the dental office to secure an appointment, as slots fill quickly. Appointments will not be taken before Friday and appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Joining the dentists and specialists Friday will be dental hygienists, dental assistants, certified dental assistants, expanded function dental assistants and office assistants.
Kouzounas, who also has a practice in Scarborough, and Dr. Barry Saltz, of Scarborough, organize Dentists Who Care for ME. They estimate that during last year’s program, dentists examined nearly 500 people and provided services valued at about $140,000.
The participating offices this year are in Biddeford, Buxton, Damariscotta, Lisbon Falls, Portland, Scarborough, Skowhegan, South Portland and Yarmouth. Most will open at 8 a.m. Friday, but their hours will vary.
To see a complete list and addresses of the participating dental offices, go online to Dentistswhocareforme.com.
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