Posted: Wed, 17 Aug 2011 09:28 PM - 14,487 Readers

By: Erin Cargile

Students in the Lake Travis Independent School District will have brighter smiles on the first day of school.

The Lakeway Dental Office and Lake Travis Labor of Love teamed up for the first time to offer children of low income families a free trip to the dentist. The non-profit raised money to cover cleanings, x-rays, sealants and cavity fillings for 70 children.

Dr. Robert Robinson put his regular patients aside Aug 12, and brought in extra dentists and hygienists to help. There was a line out the door, and some families had to be turned away.

Raphina Austin brought her 5-year-old son Alexavier who is starting kindergarten. The economy has hit her family hard.

"We had Medicaid, and we recently don't have it anymore," said Austin. "So when I saw this opportunity, I said 'oh, we have to go,' we have to start the school year off on the right foot."

The idea for the event came from Labor of Love member Eileen Alter. She had to get some dental work done and wondered what people do who can't afford to see a dentist.

The Lake Travis school district helped spread the word about the free event, but did not have to pay a dime to make it happen. They expect to see the benefits in the classroom.

"A child that receives these services is able to come into the classroom and is better prepared to learn and excel," said Marco Alvarado, Lake Travis ISD Communications Director.

The turnout exceeded Alter's expectations.

"There was a woman leaving with four children and we said 'thank you for coming' and she turned and said 'this meant more than you'll ever know,'" said Alter. "So I knew right then we had touched a nerve."

*  Story Contributed by: Erin Cargile