More than 1,000 Underinsured and Uninsured Individuals Receive Free D...( HARRISBURG Pa. July 23 /-...),Health

HARRISBURG, Pa., July 23 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 1,000 uninsured and underinsured individuals have received free dental care, valued at nearly $160,000, in the second quarter of this year, thanks to national dental insurer United Concordia Dental.

"These clinics are part of United Concordia Dental's commitment to provide free preventive services to those who cannot afford dental care," said Harlon L. Robinson, corporate vice president of human resources and administration and diversity chairman. "We plan to hold at least 50 clinics this year across the nation to help those in need."

During April, May and June, dental clinics were held in Mesa, Ariz.; Columbus, Ga.; New Orleans, La.; Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Uniontown, Pa.; and Pittsburg, Texas.

Volunteer dentists and hygienists provided services, which ranged from cleanings and x-rays to fillings and fluoride treatments. Individuals who needed follow-up care were referred to local facilities for treatment.

Chaz Kellem, manager of diversity initiatives for the Pittsburgh Pirates, said his organization appreciated working with United Concordia in making a measurable community impact.

"Thanks to this partnership, more than 100 children in need received quality dental care -- free of charge. The earlier dental problems are detected, the more successful treatment is likely to be. We look forward to growing this relationship so we can continue to make our community a better place to live and work."

Since January, United Concordia Dental has held 22 clinics across the United States, providing free services to 1,944 individuals at a value of more than $260,000.

"For every adult over the age of 18 without medical insurance, there are three without dental coverage," said Robinson. "During these trying economic times, some consider dental cover
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