What's Up with That: Dentistry from the Heart

They say that everything has to start somewhere. Dentistry From The Heart, a non-profit that has grown to provide free dental care to patients around the nation, started 10 years ago at a single office at 4530 Grand Boulevard in New Port Richey.

The very first event was coordinated at Monticciolo Family & Sedation Dentistry, owned by Dr. Vincent J. Monticciolo.  The Palm Harbor resident opened his practice in 1999, and on February 11, 2001, founded the grassroots movement that has spread across 48 states and Canada.

“It’s great for the community that people can recognize that we’ve been here 10 years, and we’ll continue to support this initiative because it really is all about giving back,” said Monticciolo, who hosts the event each year on the Friday before Valentine’s Day.

To date, Dentistry From The Heart serves an average of 500 patients in New Port Richey each year. It estimates that 30,000 patients (18 years and older) have been furnished with $8 million dollars in free care.  This year, over 250 events will be scheduled at dentist’s offices and private practices around the nation.  Procedures include (only) free extractions, fillings and cleanings. 

“The patients begin lining up at midnight, and there is even a greater need for our services during these economic times,” Monticciolo said. “It’s first come, first serve, and the patients are from all walks of life.  The event is positive for our practice, the community and other dentists around the country.  It’s a win-win-win situation for all involved.”

“We didn’t know what to expect that first year, but now we have a great system in place to keep everything running smoothly.,” said Jodi Karuso , a dental hygienist. “It’s a very exciting day for us as a staff and we are so grateful for all of our volunteers.”

On the day of the event, Monticciolo’s regular staff is joined by an external team of about one dozen doctors, two oral surgeons, seven hygienists and 100 volunteers.  Tents are erected, security is on alert and Porta Potties are stationed throughout the parking lot.  In colder years, heaters and blankets were rented to keep everyone comfortable.

Before welcoming his first patient, the doctor will be joined at a ribbon-cutting ceremony with some very local and Legislative dignitaries.

Dentistry From The Heart is scheduled from 7:30am-5pm Friday at 4530 Grand Boulevard in New Port Richey. Visit Dr. Monticciolo’s website at: www.happydentistry.com/popoutpage2.html for more information.