The staff at Turlock Smiles Dentistry and Orthodontics enjoy giving back to the community. Twice a year the Turlock business holds free dental care events, one in February for children and one in August for adults and families. This year the dental office is reaching out to a specific group of people in the community — military veterans.

Turlock Smiles will hold a free dental care clinic for local veterans and their families from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 20 at their 2808 W. Monte Vista Ave. office.

"We've seen a need for it in our office, veterans coming through without insurance," said Turlock Smiles office manager Matthew Ornelas.

The dental office has reached out to local veterans groups informing them about the free clinic, but veterans are encouraged to call Turlock Smiles to make an appointment for Aug. 20 or drop by the office on that day. Patients will be seen on a first come, first served basis, said Ornelas.

"We typically serve at least 30, but we should be able to see even more," he said.

During the free visit, three dentists and two hygienists will provide vets with an exam, x-ray, cleaning and any work they need that can be done on that day, such as crowns, fillings or root canals.

For more information, or to make an appointment, call 667-2879.