OKLAHOMA CITY — As the holiday season approaches, one metro-area dental clinic is offering more than festive cheer. Comfort Dental is providing free dental services to patients as part of its annual “Care Day,” a long-running initiative designed to help people who cannot afford routine oral care.
Each year, on the day before Christmas Eve, Comfort Dental clinics across the country open their doors and waive all fees. Patients can receive the same treatments they would get on a regular visit, but at no cost. The goal is simple: remove financial barriers and help people maintain healthy smiles during a time when expenses are often high.
“It’s a tough time for a lot of families financially,” said dentist Britney Nguyen. “So we offer free dental services that many people might not be able to get around this time of year.”
During Care Day, clinics provide essential procedures such as cleanings, fillings, and tooth extractions. These services can be expensive for patients without insurance, and delays in care often lead to more serious problems later on. By offering treatment for free, Comfort Dental hopes to prevent those issues while easing financial stress.
Patients who attended this year’s Care Day expressed gratitude for the opportunity. Cameron Booth, who received a filling, said the event made dental care accessible in a way it usually is not for him. “It’s pretty nice,” Booth said. “I don’t usually go to the dentist that often.”
Another patient, Bryan Rosas, said the free care made a meaningful difference in his situation. “I don’t have health insurance anymore,” he said. “So this is a big plus for me.”
Since the program began in 1984, Comfort Dental has provided nearly $23 million worth of free dental care through its clinics nationwide. On average, each clinic treats about 30 patients on Care Day. This year, the organization expects more than 4,500 people across the country to receive free dental services.
Nguyen, who has worked with Comfort Dental for four years, has participated in Care Day every year of her career. At 28 years old, she said the event is especially meaningful to her on a personal level.
“It’s super awesome to give back to the community,” Nguyen said. “I grew up in a state that had Comfort Dental clinics, and I’ve had family members come to Care Day. Now I get to help provide that care myself. It feels very full circle.”
The need for such programs remains significant. According to the American Dental Association, an estimated 74 million Americans lack dental coverage. Many avoid dental visits altogether because of cost. Without routine care, minor dental problems can worsen, leading to pain, infection, and higher medical expenses.
Comfort Dental says Care Day is not a complete solution, but it is one way to help close the gap. By offering free treatment once a year, the clinics aim to raise awareness about the importance of oral health and provide immediate relief to those in need.
As patients left clinics with cleaner teeth and brighter smiles, the impact of the program was clear. For many, Care Day offered more than dental work. It provided relief, dignity, and a reminder that access to care can still be found, even during challenging times.