KCTV 5Dentists teaming up to help low-income families

Kansas dentists are teaming up to help families who can't afford dental care.

The economy is keeping many families from getting routine dental work and other procedures done.

"I'm sure finances right now definitely play a part," said dentist Lisa Gonzales. "People are losing their insurance. People have to pick and choose priorities and only so much in the kitty and if it doesn't hurt (people) don't fix it."

Gonzales is co-chairing the Kansas Mission of Mercy Feb. 17 to 18. Click here for more details.

Dentists, hygienists and other medical staff are donating their time to the free clinic, which will be held in KCK. Families will get free cleanings, fillings and extractions. 

"I got on board because this is helping people in my own backyard," Gonzales said. "Anybody can come, no questions asked."

She said she knows many will be fearful and tired but also grateful for the opportunity.

"Afterwards, we see the smiles," she said. "Everyone bends over backwards to help."

Julianna Vallejo, 6, made her first trip to the dentist on Thursday. She was nervous at first but has advice for other kid getting their first cleaning, possibly at the KCK event.

"It doesn't hurt," she said. "Whenever you first get there, you might be scared. But it won't hurt. It just kind of tickles."

Another free dental clinic will be offered by Appletree Cosmetic and Family Dentistry in Olathe on Feb. 11. You must be 18 years or older to participate in this event, which begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m.

For more information on the Olathe event, click here.

To read about a Missouri side clinic that was held in December and drew more than 4,500 patients, click here.

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