Chickasha Dentist Offers Free Dental Work

CHICKASHA, Oklahoma -- While some people go for flowers and others for candy, people in Chickasha opted for a brighter smile earlier Friday.

They came early and stayed late, waiting in line for a free Valentine's gift.

Again this year a Chickasha clinic is offering Dentistry from the Heart.

"You come in, you pick your procedure," dentist Dr. John Philips said. "You either get a tooth filled, a tooth taken out or your teen cleaned; one of those three procedures. And how much does it cost? Free.

Christina Maynes jumped at the chance for a free cleaning.

"I haven't been able to get a cleaning since my first some was born, so I wanted to come and just maintain my teeth," Maynes said.

People started lining up yesterday evening. They kept arriving throughout the night. The line continued to grow through the morning--full of folks ready to say "ah!" for free.

For Vickie Davis, it was worth showing up before dawn.

"This is the only way I can get dental care at clinics when they do ‘em," Davis said.

Assisting the dentists and the hygienists was Melissa Herndon, one of two dozen dental students gaining firsthand experience.

"This is an amazing opportunity," Herndon said. "It's very hands-on. I'm so glad we got to do this."

At last check the Chickasha clinic had treated nearly 150 patients and once again, it was all free.