For the last three years, Cary Magazine and Dr. Allan Acton of Cary Family Dental have teamed up on the Cary Smile Makeover project, giving a whole new smile to a deserving recipient each year.

Inspired by the success of the Cary Smile Makeover for those three participants, and the growing number of entries, Dr. Acton decided to try something new this year in order to benefit more people in the community.

Saturday, April 14, Cary Family Dental will host a free dental care event through Dentistry from the Heart. The organization is a nonprofit dedicated to providing free dental care to those who need it, thanks to the donations of time and resources from individual dentists and practices.

Cary Family Dental staff members are participating by working all day on Saturday — for free. They hope to serve around 200 people throughout the day.

Cary Family Dental’s team of dental professionals will provide free extractions, cleanings or fillings on a first-come, first-served basis to any adult patients, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Patients are encouraged to come early, as registration begins at 7 a.m. Participants must be 18 or older and bring a valid photo ID. Patients are also encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather and to bring chairs, water and snacks as they will be outside waiting to be seen.

Volunteers are needed. If you would like to volunteer, please email: caryfamdental@dfth.com.

Cary Magazine is happy to serve as media partner for the Dentistry from the Heart event. For more information, visit http://www.carydental.com/dfth.html.