1,000 will get free dental care Saturday

By The Associated Press
June 25, 2009

HEDGESVILLE, W.Va. — Hedgesville High School is turning into a free dental clinic, where volunteers will tend to 1,000 people with oral health needs.

The second annual Mission of Mercy clinic is set for Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Five hundred people will be served each day. The doors will close once 500 armbands to identify patients are issued.

Chairwoman Betty Russell says more people know about the program this year. That, combined with a poor economy, may help boost turnout.

Volunteer coordinator Trina Bartlett says some 800 people have offered to help.

The adults-only clinic is providing X-rays, extractions and cleaning, but patients can’t get bridges or dentures.

A second free dental clinic is set for July 31-Aug. 1 in Parkersburg.