GLADSTONE, Mo. — Going to the dentist can be scary for people.
It can be scary for parents seeing the bill at the end of a visit for their child.
One local dentistry helped those parents on Saturday by making their appointments free.
"I called and I asked a couple of questions and said, "Is this what it appears to be? They said yeah, it sounds like a good first experience," said Mandi Spinale, who took her daughter Jada for a visit.
This was 6-year-old Jada's first time to see a dentist.
Marx Family Dental has been holding their "Have a Heart Day" for the past 31 years.
"We are providing free dental cleanings, exams and x -rays for children. We will, any need or any dental work that is needed, we will provide that for them," said Dr. Emily Marx, a partner in the practice.
In the first two hours, doctors and dental assistants saw more than 80 patients.
According to the CDC, dental problems affect a child's self-esteem. Tooth decay is five times more common than asthma in children.
Spinale didn't want her daughter to fall into that statistic, but recently lost her job.
"It's been rough. Taking it day by day," said Spinale.
She now has one less bill to worry about because of the dental business.
"Being laid off with the shutdown and everything it definitely takes a big burden off especially since she needs to be seen. It helps out tremendously!" said Spinale.
These dentists want parents to know they are there for them.
Jada's mom hopes others know it's okay to ask for help.
"I was nervous at first. You don't feel any less of a person and it's a fun atmosphere. Everyone is smiling and brings a community together," said Spinale.
