Thursday, June 10, 2010

Ladd Dental Group offering free day of dentistry Friday

Posted: Wednesday, September 30, 2009 12:00 pm | Updated: 10:06 am, Wed Sep 30, 2009.

By Peter Adelsen Perspective staff writer padelsen@kokomoperspective.com | 0 comments

As many people find it difficult to afford dental insurance, many dentists across the county are offering free dental care for a day through Dentistry From The Heart.

One such dental group is Kokomo's Ladd Dental Group, Inc. at 2333 West Lincoln Rd.

The dental group will be hosting its 4th annual Dentistry From The Heart on Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"It's free," said Mandy Kenner of Ladd Dental Group. "There is no cost whatsoever."

In the past, the office has seen about 200 patients per year through this event. Since its first event in 2005, the dental group has seen more than 1,000 patients with more than 150 volunteers.

"I believe in the heart of Kokomo," said John Ladd. "That is people working together to meet the needs of other people. Ladd Dental Group wants to be a part of that effort through Dentistry From The Heart."

The Ladd Dental Group dentists, hygienists and staff will provide fillings, extractions and cleanings to as many people as they can see on the day. The patients will be seen on a first come, first serve basis.

The goal of the event is to help relieve pain and take care of the patient's problems. If a patient needs ongoing treatment, he or she will be referred to income-based programs that will assist them in receiving more extensive dental work.

Many businesses and organizations have donated to this year's event, including Harvey Hinkelmeyers restaurant that will provide food to the staff and patients, Kenner said.

Other businesses donating are Midway Dental Supply, Howard Print Shop, On-Site Services, Merrell Owens, Sign pro, Colgate, Henry Shein Dental Supply, Patterson Dental Supply, 3M/ESPE, Bible Baptist Church, Dr. Sigrid Schwartz, McDonald's, Smile Makers, Micro-flex, American Tool and Party Rental, Coca-Cola and Dan's Variety Bakery.

Dentistry From The Heart originated in New Port Richey, Fla., in 2001 with Vincent Monticciolo's practice. This was Monticcilo's way of giving back to his community and providing aid to the increasing number of people without dental insurance. In 2008, Dentistry From The Heart events helped 5,500 patients and provided more than $1.5 million in free dentistry, according to its Web site. The events were held at more than 60 host locations in 29 states across the country.

http://kokomoperspective.com/news/article_1a04a05a-ad36-11de-af36-001cc4c002e0.html

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