Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Concordia and Catholic Charities Join Forces to Offer Free Health, Dental Services Thi...( PITTSBURGH July 18 /- Highmark Bl...),Health

PITTSBURGH, July 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Concordia Companies, Inc. and Catholic Charities will join forces to promote healthy smiles and lifestyles for Pittsburghers. Beginning at 10 a.m. and continuing until 3 p.m., tomorrow, July 19, a free clinic will offer health information and dental screenings, restorations and sealants for those in need.

For far too long, oral health has received much less attention in American culture than other aspects of health care. The perception that oral health and one's overall health are separate from general health is shared by many citizens. Fortunately, that perception is beginning to change.

In support of National Dental Day July 18, Harrisburg-based national dental insurer United Concordia is taking steps to prevent oral health problems in adults by providing underserved individuals with free dental screenings, restorative treatment and sealants.

"Oral disease is a growing epidemic in the United States," says Harlon L. Robinson, United Concordia corporate vice president of Human Resources and Administration and Corporate Diversity chairman. "Dental decay can cause pain, loss of time from work and lower self-esteem. Our goal is to make sure everyone has the opportunity to see a dentist so they can achieve optimal oral health no matter where they live. We also teach them healthy dental habits that they can carry with them through their lives."

The free clinic will be held Saturday at the Catholic Charities Free Health Center in downtown Pittsburgh. Individuals who have not seen a dentist in the last year, those who have minimal or no insurance, or those who have difficulty affording dental care are invited to attend. Dental exams will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

About Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

In 2007, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield provided financial support of $137.2 million for programs in support of its corporate mis
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