With the Help of Local Dentists, Bilirakis Arranges Free Dental Treatment for Veterans in Need as Part of Veterans Day Tribute

New Port Richey:  The office of Congressman Gus Bilirakis, Pasco-Hernando State College, and the West Pasco Dental Association are once again partnering to provide free dental services to Veterans in need at this year’s Stars, Stripes, and Smiles event, which will take place at Pasco Hernando State College on November 4th. As part of this exciting initiative, dentists within the community will provide urgent dental care to military Veterans living in Tampa Bay who have been suffering with untreated dental pain and infection- all at no cost to Veterans.   Participating Veterans must have an appointment and can register by calling Congressman Bilirakis's office at 727-232-2921.   Oral health is an integral part of overall well-being and a vital component of preventative medicine.  When left untreated, dental infection often exacerbates underlying health conditions and can increase the cost of care.  However, dental care through the VA is currently limited to those Veterans who are 100% disabled or have a direct service-connected injury impacting their oral health. 

“Veterans have sacrificed so much to defend our freedom and they deserve access to high quality health care, including dental treatment.  I have filed legislation, the VET CARE Act, which would 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 our heroes receive immediate care, and I am honored to help organize this important event again this year," stated Congressman Gus Bilirakis.

Services offered through this special event will include: professional dental cleanings, 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.

Event information is below. The press is welcome to attend.  For additional information, please contact Summer Blevins at Summer.Blevins@mail.house.govor visit https://www.usaveteransmiles.org/

Stars, Stripes and Smiles
November 4, 2022
8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Pasco Hernando State College, West Pasco Campus