OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — A nonprofit organization is helping hundreds of low-income and uninsured Oklahomans access free dental care, changing lives one smile at a time.
Tyron Barnes, a local resident, shared his story with News 4. After years of relying on soft foods due to dental issues, he’s now able to enjoy his favorite meals again, including “fried chicken.” Barnes credits a visit to the dentist, something he had long avoided due to his lack of insurance and the high costs involved.
Barnes’ dental problems were caused by medication, which led to the gradual decay of his teeth. For over a decade, he was left with only eight teeth. “I was missing all my uppers,” Barnes explained.
Without insurance, Barnes faced a hefty bill to restore his smile—costs that could run into the thousands. But he found help through D-Dent, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free dental care.
D-Dent offers services to veterans, seniors, people with disabilities, and those battling serious illnesses like cancer. The best part? The treatment is completely free.
“100% free. No cost to the people we help,” said Karen Chadwell, D-Dent’s executive director.
Chadwell has been leading D-Dent for nearly 40 years. In that time, the organization has provided over $29 million worth of dental treatments, improving the lives of more than 20,000 people.
Dr. Adam Brewer, a dentist with D-Dent for about 15 years, shared his excitement about helping patients. “Giving ten people dentures on the same day—that’s fun,” Dr. Brewer said. “It’s ten smiles like Tyron’s.”
Through D-Dent’s efforts, more Oklahomans are able to receive the dental care they need, transforming their lives and restoring their health.
