Dozens of Maine dentists, dental hygienists and support staffers will offer free care Friday at nine locations as part of the 2016 Dentists Who Care for ME event.

The dental care providers volunteer their time to offer teeth cleanings, fillings and extractions to people who cannot afford regular dental care and do not have insurance. For the first time, 63 second-year University of New England dental students also will participate in the program.

The program offers one oral care service or a referral to a specialist if needed. People are encouraged to arrive early at participating dental offices to secure an appointment, as slots fill quickly. Reservations will not be taken and appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis. Vouchers for free services by dental specialists are distributed by the referring dentist to patients who need more comprehensive procedures.

The list of participating dental offices and service hours include: Dr. Alan Chebuske, 110 Auburn St., Portland, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Dunstan Dental Center, 618 US Route 1, Scarborough, 8 a.m. to noon; Saco River Dentistry, 440 Narragansett Trail, Buxton, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Northwoods Dental, 327 North Ave., Skowhegan, 8 a.m. to noon; Two Rivers Family Dental, 4 Bisbee St., Lisbon, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Bayview Dental, 247 Portland St., Yarmouth, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Gentle Dental, 473 Alfred St., Biddeford, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Windham Dental Associates, Dr. Heather Keeling, 4 Commons Ave., Windham, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Falmouth Dentistry, Dr. Kyra Chadbourne, 78 Leighton Road, Falmouth.

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