Phoenix dental office offers free dental work to Valley residents

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - Before the sun even came up on Labor Day morning, people were lined up at Risas Dental and Braces in south Phoenix.

They were all waiting for free dental care.

"It's our way of saying thanks," Dr. Andy Weir said.

Dr. Weir is one of many dentists, assistants and hygienists who all volunteered their time to help out for this annual event.

"We're offering free dental services," he said. "People can choose from one of four services; an exam, a cleaning, a dental extraction, a filling."

Mario Vega was first in line, getting here at 3:30 a.m. to ensure he was seen by a dentist for a painful tooth.

"It's very expensive," he said. "I just did work at another place for $2,000, just for one."

He says without Risas, he may have had to go without dental care and that's exactly what dentists here are trying to avoid.

"Neglecting those things can lead to other issues," Dr. Weir said.

Risas estimates they treated upwards of 1,000 patients between all of their Valley locations.

"I do appreciate all the love they're giving us out here," one person said.