PASCO COUNTY – U.S. Reps. Gus Bilirakis and Laurel Lee are teaming up with Pasco-Hernando State College and the Pasco Dental Association to host their annual Stars, Stripes, and Smiles event.
The initiative will provide urgent dental care at no cost to 100 military veterans experiencing untreated dental pain and infection. Local dentists have volunteered their time and expertise to support the effort. Modern, high-tech dental care will be used at the event, including digital scanners and 3D-printed restorations. Veterans in need of dental services are encouraged to contact Bilirakis’s office at 727-232-2921 to register. Appointments will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Dental services provided during the event will include professional cleanings, tooth extractions, dental fillings, root canal therapy and dental crowns.
“Oral health is essential to overall wellness, yet most veterans are not eligible for dental benefits through the VA unless they are 100% disabled or have a service-connected dental injury,” Bilirakis said. “Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country. They deserve access to high-quality healthcare, including dental care.”
Bilirakis has advocated for expanded access to dental care for veterans.
Earlier this year, the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act was signed into law. The legislation includes a key provision from Bilirakis’ VETCARE Act, establishing a pilot program to provide dental care to veterans with chronic health conditions currently being treated by the VA. Currently, only about 9% of veterans qualify for VA dental benefits. Studies show that untreated dental issues can worsen chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease, leading to increased healthcare costs. The new pilot program aims to demonstrate the long-term cost savings and health benefits of preventive dental care for veterans.
“This pilot program is a vital first step toward improving access to dental care for all veterans and could ultimately reduce healthcare costs for the VA system as a whole,” Bilirakis said. “While we work toward broader reform, I’m incredibly grateful to the Pasco Dental Association for stepping up now to provide critical care to our local heroes. Their generosity is truly inspiring.”
Lee said it’s an honor to join Bilirakis and community partners for the event.
“Our veterans have given so much to our nation, and ensuring they have access to high-quality dental care is a meaningful way to honor their service,” Lee said. “I’m encouraged by the new pilot program expanding dental benefits through the VA, and I’m grateful to the local dentists and volunteers whose generosity is making a real difference for our veterans.”
Eric Hall, president of PHSC, said his institution is proud to partner in the Stars, Stripes, and Smiles initiative.
“Our dental faculty and dental hygiene students are honored to volunteer their skills alongside local dentists to give back to those who have given so much for our country,” Hall said.
Dr. Zack Kalarickal, of the Pasco Dental Association, emphasized the importance of the initiative.
“These heroes deserve a healthcare system that meets their full range of needs, including oral health,” Kalarickal said. “Until that day comes, it is our professional privilege to serve those who have served us.”
