Dentists Paul Ellington and Robert Hulbert counted 110 cavities on their "Give Kids a Smile Day."
They opened their Sterling office doors Friday and provided free dental work from 8 a.m to 3 p.m. They helped 40 children, providing 70 fillings, 40 cleanings and 60 sealants.
Stacy Byrd of Sterling brought two of his sons. "Being a single dad with three boys, it's fantastic," he said of the opportunity. It would be great if other dentists provided pro-bono work, he added.
Sterling resident Rebecca Johnson brought her daughters Heaven, 5, and Faith, 9. "I think it's really wonderful for them to have something like this in the community," she said. Heaven was all smiles with a few front teeth missing.
Hulbert said he only had to make an announcement about the free care once. The appointment book filled up quickly. The doctors and four dental hygienists worked on the four patients at a time. "The need is so great, patients are signing up for next year," he said.