SHERMAN, Texas (KXII) – Veterans in Texoma received free dental care Tuesday during the annual Keep Veterans Smiling Day in Sherman.
For some, the sound of dental tools can be intimidating. For the long line of veterans waiting at the event, it was a welcome opportunity.
“I’ve been needing dental care for a while, and I’ve got one tooth that maybe needs to come out, so I was just grateful that they’re doing this up here today,” said Air Force Airborne Linguist Bryan Osorio. He added that even with insurance, his last tooth extraction cost $700.
The event is organized by a private non-profit founded by Dr. Sam Nechamkin. He said the goal is to “pay it forward” because veterans have already given so much through their service.
Beyond providing smiles, the event promotes overall health. Dental care is linked to heart health, pregnancy, and even mental well-being. Air Force veteran Mollie Robinson explained the connection.
“Anybody can tell you that if you have teeth that are breaking down, it affects your whole health, especially your mental health,” Robinson said. “I think it’s very important for my brain and my mental health to keep my teeth healthy.”
During the event, each veteran received one of three services free of charge: a cleaning, an extraction, or a filling.
“I hope I get a filling,” Robinson said. “I’m not sure if I have a cavity, but I think I might.”
Dr. Nechamkin said he and his volunteers care deeply for veterans. Two veterans selected by office staff received full-service dental care, including dentures, fillings, and crowns.
“Dentures, fillings, crowns—really whatever they need,” Dr. Sam said. “We just try to help out as much as we possibly can.”