CARTERVILLE--When people lose their job, they often lose their insurance.
Some never had coverage to begin with and are forced to ignore their medical needs, including a visit to the dentist.
That's where the Create a Smile Dental Foundation steps in.
Carla Fletcher has a lot to smile about these days. About a month ago, she was fitted with a new set of teeth.
"People say I look about 10 to 15 years younger than I used to. And I smile more," said Carla.
The Create a Smile Dental Foundation helped make it happen. The group pays for dental work for people who have no insurance.
Over the last five years, the foundation has provided dental assistance to nearly 40 people in southern Illinois.
"I've had dental problems, my wife has had dental problems. So many people have dental problems, they don't have insurance. We figured it would be a good thing to help people because we enjoy helping people," said founder John Flora.
He says they're able to pay for the dental work thanks in part to this thrift store in downtown Carterville.
Dentists also help by doing some procedures at a reduced price.
"But it still costs lots of money to get that dental work done."
Carla says before she got her new teeth, she spent almost 15 years with broken teeth and exposed roots.
She can smile again without feeling self conscience.
"It's just a wonderful feeling you know. I think a lot of prayer must have went into it. I went in to get my teeth pulled one day and the new ones the next. They were just healing like they should."
Applications can be picked up at the thrift store on Division Street in Carterville.
by Kevin Hunsperger
khunsperger@wsiltv.com
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