Free dental clinic scheduled in New Bern

 A free dental clinic is set for Jan. 23 and 24 in New Bern.

The clinic will serve people with low incomes and will be sponsored by MERCI Clinic, N.C. Missions of Mercy.

At least 18 dentists from New Bern, Washington, Havelock and Morehead City, along with hygienist assistants, will be at the clinic.

Students from East Carolina University and Chapel Hill will also be offering services at the dental clinic.

An announcement from MERCI Clinic said research shows that poor medical health can be directly linked to poor dental health, especially for those with heart problems or diabetes.

"This is the first time we have had a dental clinic. We want to reach out to the community. The community has given so much to us, we want to give back," said Nancy Alexander, executive director of the MERCI Clinic.

She said people with certain government help often cannot get dental care.

The MERCI Clinic serves Craven, Pamlico and Jones counties.

The clinic will be held at the Ministry Center of Garber United Methodist Church on Country Club Road in Trent Woods.

Pricilla Miller, executive assistant at MERCI Clinic, said registration will begin at 6 a.m. both days of the clinic.

She said patients will be seen on a first come, first served basis. Miller said those who register must show proof of income, such as pay stubs, copies of income tax forms, unemployment letters - in order to qualify.

Miller said the clinic will offer restoration, extraction and hygiene services.

Everyone working at the clinic will be volunteering time, from food servers to interpreters to dentists.

Miller said local families have opened their homes to the traveling dental students in an effort to save money.

The clinic is funded in part by a Wal-Mart grant, the New Bern Rotary and the Christ Church Trust Fund.

Miller said people who want more information should call the MERCI Clinic at 633-1599. She said people should not call Garber United Methodist Church for details.