PORT ST. LUCIE — For many veterans, getting dental care isn’t as simple as making an appointment. Even after serving their country, many find themselves without access to affordable treatment for painful or serious dental problems.
A new partnership between Cap Dental and the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund (WVRF) aims to help close that gap, providing eligible veterans with dental care through the nonprofit’s Critical Dental Assistance Program.
According to WVRF, approximately 85% of military veterans do not qualify for dental care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Even after serving their country, many face barriers to getting treatment for painful or serious dental problems.
Through the partnership, Cap Dental will treat veterans referred and approved by WVRF, with approved costs covered through the program. Treatment will address dental infections, pain and restorative needs.
The initiative coincides with the opening of Cap Dental’s second office, at 1244 SW Gatlin Blvd., Unit 101, Port St. Lucie. The family-owned practice is led by brothers Dr. Manuel B. Capriles and Dr. Manuel A. Capriles.
For Dr. Manuel B. Capriles, a former military dentist, the partnership carries personal significance.
“Dental care is an important part of overall health, but too many veterans face barriers to getting the treatment they need,” said Dr. Manuel B. Capriles. “We’re proud to partner with Wounded Veterans Relief Fund to help more veterans access the dental care they deserve.”
The new office celebrated its grand opening Wednesday, Oct. 21, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by the St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce.
Local residents and business representatives joined the celebration, touring the office, meeting the dental team and learning about available services. Richard Martinez was named the winner of the practice’s “Cleanings for Life” giveaway.
“Opening our second location is a testament to the trust our patients have placed in us and our commitment to doing things right,” said Nicole Saad, marketing and operations representative at Cap Dental. “We’re excited to continue growing and bringing quality dental care to more families.”
The Port St. Lucie office offers preventive, restorative and cosmetic dentistry, including dental implants, root canals, veneers, teeth whitening, braces and Invisalign.
Appointments are available in English and Spanish, with Saturday hours to accommodate patients and families. The practice accepts new patients, participates in most major PPO dental insurance plans and offers financing through CareCredit and Cherry.
Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays.
Veterans interested in learning about eligibility for WVRF’s Critical Dental Assistance Program can visit wvrf.org.
For appointments or information about Cap Dental, call 772-775-8772 or visit mycapdental.com.