Bilirakis announces “Stars, Stripes, and Smiles” Event to Provide Free Dental Care for Veterans

New Port Richey, FL:  Congressman Gus Bilirakis and the Pasco County Dental Association are delighted to announce their annual Stars, Stripes, and Smiles event, which will take place November 3, 2023. As part of this exciting initiative, dentists within the community have volunteered to provide urgent dental care to 75 military Veterans living in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties who have been suffering with untreated dental pain and infection- all at no cost to Veterans. Veterans in need of dental services should contact Congressman Bilirakis's office at 727-232-2921 to sign up for treatment. They will be taken on a first come, first serve basis.

Oral health is an integral part of total health, and unfortunately, dental care through the VA is limited to those who are 100% disabled or have a direct service-connected injury impacting their oral health. "Our Veterans have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom and they deserve access to high quality health care. I have filed legislation that will expand Veterans' access to dental care, however, I am very grateful for the generosity of the dentists from the West Pasco Dental Association who are not waiting for a change in law. They are ensuring that our heroes receive immediate care, and I am honored to help organize this important event," stated Congressman Gus Bilirakis.

Services offered through this special event will include: professional dental cleanings, root canal therapy, tooth extractions and dental fillings. "These heroes deserve a system of care to ensure their oral health care needs are met. Until that can become a reality, it is our professional privilege to serve this special segment of our community," said Dr. Zacharias Kalarickal of the West Pasco Dental Association. Other partners and sponsors include: Pasco-Hernando State College, Hungry Harry’s and Henry Schein Cares Foundation.   The press is welcome to attend.