Smiles for service members: Local veterans receive thousands in free dental care
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Over a dozen San Diego veterans received more than $40,000 worth of free dental care at dentist offices across the county this past Saturday.
These local heroes were treated as part of the 15th annual Smile Generation Serve Day, a larger day of service happening across the country. Locally, their treatment was made possible by Smile Generation’s partnership with Hire Heroes, a nonprofit focused on connecting veterans with job opportunities.
“We’re all just here as a team volunteering our day, our time to donate dental services to our community,” said Elena Ortiz, office manager of Downtown SD Modern Dentistry.
According to Smile Generation, more than 80% of veterans nationwide are ineligible for dental coverage. As a result, veterans experience higher rates of gum disease, missing teeth and health issues like diabetes and heart disease which can lead to poor oral health.
In light of these health disparities, Dr. David Kim of SD Modern Dentistry explained the significance of providing free care to veterans.
“It’s nice to be able to help out some of these patients that maybe couldn’t afford some of this treatment,” Kim shared. “To be able to make that difference without any financial burden or pressure is, I think, really special.”
To prepare for Smile Generation Serve Day, the participating nine dentist offices completed pre-screenings the week before. Then, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Aug. 16, veterans received services such as deep cleanings, fills and crowns.
Outside of the Smile Generation Serve Day event, walk-ins are also welcome during the week for veterans in need of dental care.
Christelle Koumoué contributed to this report
