S. Florida Dentist Offers Free Checkups For Uninsured Kids

KENDALL (CBS4) - A South Florida dental office is giving 200 uninsured families the chance to get a couple hundred dollars worth of dental care for free.

A visit to the dentist for kids is tough, but it doesn't have to be frightening for parents wondering how they are going to pay the bill.

"It's pretty expensive so it is hard to be able to take him," said Cassandra Serralta who is a single mother working and going to school, but with no insurance, getting a free dental screening is great.

"Since it is free it helps a lot because dental care is really expensive," said Serralta to CBS4's Jorge Estevez.

Dr. Elena Menendez works at Main Street Children's Dentistry in Kendall. The office came up with the idea to give 200 uninsured children a free checkup.

"We see them at an early age, discuss proper hygiene habits and proper diet," said Dr. Menendez.

Sometimes the cost, which for uninsured patients can climb to 200 dollars, can keep families away.

"As a result, the child is the one who ultimately suffers because he has to go through pain and infection," said Menendez.

But the dentists at Main Street Children's Dentistry are hoping to change that with their program called, Give Kids a Smile Free Dental Day. It is a day where they offer free x-rays, cleanings, exams and preventative procedures. And so far it is working for children like Jordan.

"He was really good at letting them brush his teeth and now he sees it is important. It is actually tough to get him to brush his teeth," said Serralta.

Due to the number of people expected, participants must be pre-registered prior to the event. To pre-register a child and receive an appointment time, call (888) 643-0221. Learn more at www.mainstreetsmiles.com; click on the "Dental Health Month" button.