HUNDREDS OF RESIDENTS lined up outside Family Dentistry on Wednesday, waiting hours for a dental service many say they cannot afford. The clinic, located at 6500 South Padre Island Drive, saw its parking lot and sidewalks filled with people hoping for free tooth extractions.
Dental care can be costly, and not all health insurance plans cover it. For the past eight years, Dr. Baria Yassin, owner of Family Dentistry, has offered free tooth extractions to anyone in the community who needs them.
“I live on Social Security. I can’t really afford the dentist,” said patient Ysidoro Saenz while waiting. “That’s why I’m here to have a tooth pulled. It’s an absolute blessing to the community.”
A tooth extraction usually costs around $300, leaving many residents with few options when dental problems become urgent. This year, the demand for free care was evident. Office staff said turnout nearly doubled compared to previous events.
Some patients arrived as early as 6 a.m., and others told KRIS 6 News they slept in their cars overnight to secure a spot.
“I’ve been here since 6 a.m. I had tooth pain and needed to see the dentist,” said Kayamber Perez. “It was free, and as minorities, we don’t often get this kind of help. We don’t get told, ‘Hey, this resource is available for you.’”
Many patients came prepared for a long wait, bringing chairs, blankets, and even word search puzzles while hoping for relief from persistent tooth pain.
“I brought a chair because I’m not going to stand for hours,” said Gwendolyn Sparks. “A family member had a tooth problem, and I’m also having trouble with my wisdom tooth. I hope I can get it pulled too.”
Dr. Yassin’s son, Dr. Rony Yassin, who also practices at the clinic, said the free extraction event was inspired by his grandmother, who spent her life serving the community.
“We see a lot of need, and dental care is expensive,” he said. “This is a small way we can give back to the community.”
Family Dentistry hosts the free extraction event once a year. It provides much-needed care for residents who might otherwise go without dental treatment.