IRON MOUNTAIN — The John Fornetti Dental Center will once again open its doors to those who’ve served in the military by hosting its 11th-annual “Dentistry for Our Vets” event Saturday at the dental center on Stephenson Avenue in Iron Mountain.

The event, which takes place around Veterans Day each year, will be from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will be offered on a first-come, first served basis — no appointments are needed or taken in advance. Veterans that plan to attend should come early, dress for the weather and be prepared for outdoor waiting if needed.

“Dentistry for Our Vets” is a day of free dental care for any Armed Forces veteran older than 18. At no out-of-pocket cost to them, veterans have their choice of a cleaning, a filling or an extraction. Depending on the turnout, some veterans can get back in line and receive multiple services on the same day.

Thanks to the generosity of local volunteers and fellow Michigan dental professionals, the team is able to welcome a large number of veterans and provide the care they need and deserve. Donations from local businesses also help the dental practice with necessary supplies for the event, and even a warming shelter for veterans to sit in and visit while they await their turn.

“It’s our way of saying thank you to those who’ve served,” said Dr. John Fornetti, founder of the event. “There’s a special energy in the building that day — there’s storytelling, connection and community. But most importantly, we’re helping meet real needs and giving veterans relief, confidence and smiles they can be proud of.”

Each year, between 50 and 100 veterans come through the clinic’s doors for this special day. Many of them don’t qualify for dental benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, making this event an important — and often eagerly anticipated — opportunity to receive care that would otherwise be out of reach. With dental cleanings often starting at $100 and more-involved procedures such as fillings and extractions costing $200 or more, the impact is significant.