PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — A local practice will join Maine dentists, dental specialists, hygienists, and office staff members who will volunteer their time this Friday, Nov. 2, to provide free care during the 10th annual Dentists Who Care for ME.
Saint Apollonia Dental Clinic in Presque Isle will be one of the participating practices, and will open its doors from 12 to 4 p.m.
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. 2, and appointments are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Vouchers for free services by dental specialists are 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 over $1.2 million since its inception. The Maine Dental Association is taking a lead role in organizing Dentists Who Care for ME this year.
“The MDA is pleased to be more closely involved with Dentists Who Care for ME,” said Executive Director Angela Cole Westhoff. “We are committed to developing a strategy to ensure continued growth of this important program.”
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.
