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Melanie had extreme tooth pain. She has no insurance and can’t afford a dentist. Good thing she found the free Apple Project in Jacksonville. Here’s what to know.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Maybe you’re like Melanie. She’s in pain and can’t afford a dentist.
The Jacksonville woman told First Coast News she checked with three different dentists, and was told it would cost her thousands of dollars to fix her teeth.
But, Melanie has no insurance and no way to pay that huge bill. She said she went home and just started crying.
Now, though, Melanie has qualified for the Apple Project, the only free dental clinic in Jacksonville. She wants to eat a Granny Smith apple when she’s out of pain.
Melanie visited the clinic located on Timuquana Road to get help. Still with cotton in her mouth from the procedure, she got emotional and thanked the volunteer dentists there.
Volunteer apple dentist Dr. Erik Hekkert said Melanie’s teeth were infected, and that’s dangerous.
“It just makes her sick,” Hekkert told First Coast News. “She continues to swallow that infection.”
According to Apple Project and Community Health Outreach CEO Dr. Rob Thomas, oral infections can lead to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and even death in some cases.
Here’s what to know about the Apple Project:
Why is it called the Apple Project?
Back in 2015, First Coast News worked with Delores Weaver, architect Matthew Garman, Jacksonville-based the Haskell Company, and multiple businesses and schools to raise more than a million dollars to build the Apple Project. People tell us they just want to be able to bite into an apple again.
Do I qualify for the Apple Project, the free dental clinic?
In order to qualify for the Apple Project, you need to be low income and have no dental insurance. Also, you must be 18 years of age or older to qualify.
To find out details, call 904-573-1333.
Dentists and hygienists needed
The Apple Project needs you!
You are needed if you can assist the dentist, as simple training is available. You could also take blood pressures or clean clinic areas.
Volunteering can happen just once a month!
To find out more, click here.
Where is the Apple Project?
The Apple Project Clinic is located at 5126 Timuquana Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32210. It is part of Community Health Outreach.
What dental services are provided for free through the Apple Project?
According to CEO Dr. Rob Thomas, general exams, X-rays (Panoramic), fillings, extractions, and cleanings w/ dental health education are the dental services provided for free through the Apple Project. No emergency treatments are provided by the Apple Project.
What counties does the Apple Project serve?
The Apple Project only serves Duval County.
If you don’t live in Duval, click here for a low-cost or free dental clinic nearest you. Just put your zip code in the search area.
Where else could I find help in Jacksonville for a dentist appointment?
While the Apple Project is the only brick-and-mortar free clinic, here are some other options:
- St. Vincent’s Mobile Dental
- FL Baptist Convention Mobile Dental Unit
How do I learn more about the Apple Project?
Click here to learn more information about the Apple Project.
Would you like to share your story?
Feel free to reach out to First Coast News, On Your Side’s anchor Jeannie Blaylock.
You can text her at 904-361-8289.
