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WEST VALLEY CITY -- While Americans wait to see what happens with health care on the national level, many remain without insurance.
But a group of dentists in West Valley City decided to take the matter into their own hands and provide care for children at no charge.
The dentists at Pioneer Valley Dental say they know a lot of people don't have medical insurance right now, and because of that, neither do their children.
So in connection with the national "Give Kids a Smile" program, the dentists opened up shop at their office at 3540 S. 4000 West Saturday and didn't ask for anything in return -- except a smile.
"It's cool because they're helping all the children that don't have money to go anywhere else," said 9-year-old Kenneth Basto. "They help children so if people don't have work right now, they can just come and bring their children here."
Basto was one of some 60 children who received free checkups, teeth cleanings, fillings and other procedures if needed.
Dr. Curtis Smith was one of the dentists who volunteered his time for the cause.
"Circumstances change, parents go without jobs for a while, insurance changes, and so some of these kids are left without the opportunity to get dentistry done," Smith said.
Marion Chacon brought her two children to the free clinic. Through a Spanish interpreter, Chacon said she was grateful the dentists cared enough to help her children because times are tough.
Elmer Rosino thanked the dentists, saying he would've had a tough time paying for the cavity his 7-year-old son Elwin had filled.
Dr. Thomas Broadbent says this program is something his office has been doing for years. "This is a fun Saturday for us. We look forward to this every year," he said.
Dr. Taylor World says it's nice to be able to give back. "We've been blessed, and there is a lot of need in this community," he said. "Some people who are underprivileged and don't have the opportunity to get the dental care they need can come here."
The dentists say their payment comes in the form of smiles. "We've done some good in the world today. Yeah. Absolutely," said Smith.
In all, the group estimates they did about $25,000 worth of dental work.
E-mail: acabrero@ksl.com
