HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- United Concordia Dental, one of the nation's largest dental insurers, has helped provide more than $400,000 in free dental services to nearly 2,800 people in need since the beginning of the year.

"We are committed to enhancing the communities we serve," said Richard P. Klich, DMD, United Concordia Dental's national dental director. "That's why we're helping hold free dental clinics for those in need across the nation. By the end of the year, more than 50 clinics will have been held in places like Harrisburg and Gettysburg, Pa.; Phoenix, Ariz..; Columbus, Ga.; San Dimas, Calif.; and Arlington, Texas."

Since January 31 clinics have been held across the nation. Volunteer dentists and hygienists provided free services at the clinics, which ranged from cleanings and X-rays to fillings and fluoride treatment.

"United Concordia takes very seriously our responsibility to help the communities we serve," said Woodrow Greene, community outreach coordinator for the company. "We believe that strategic, socially responsible initiatives create strong and vibrant communities."

The importance of good oral hygiene is also discussed at the clinics. Patients are taught proper brushing and flossing techniques and referred to follow-up care if needed.

"A healthy mouth may help other areas of the body stay healthy," said Dr. Klich. "Research has shown that poor oral health, in particular the presence of gum disease, may be associated with a number of health problems. Those problems include heart disease and stroke, low birth weight and premature births and diabetes."

During October, United Concordia is partnering with Mission of Mercy (MOM), headquartered in Frederick, Md., and its parent company, Highmark Inc., headquartered in Pittsburgh, to hold a number of clinics in Pennsylvania and Maryland.

"October is National Oral Hygiene Month, and in recognition of this, Mission of Mercy thanks United Concordia, one of the largest and most respected dental insurers in the nation, for partnering with us to provide more than 400 free fillings and extractions to the uninsured," said Linda Ryan, MOM executive director. "Through their generous gift of more than $7,500, they are funding all of our free dental clinic sites for the month of October."

For more information

Visit www.unitedconcordia.com, www.amissionofmercy.org or www.highmark.com.

SOURCE United Concordia Dental