DeKALB | Open wide, DeKalb.

The DeKalb Dental Group, 2707 Sycamore Road, will host its first “Free Dentistry Day” on May 12 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The first 100 people who come will be able to receive free dental exams, said Adam Lueken, PR specialist for Heartland Dental Care. Anyone who comes in after will be rescheduled for a later date, Lueken said.

Lisa Cassidy, practice administrator for the DeKalb Dental Group, said creating a sense of community is an important aspect of the event.

“We want to give back to the community,” she said.

Besides general dental exams, the Dental Group will also be offering free cleanings, X-rays and fillings.

The hygienists and doctors can also treat cavities and perform extractions.

Cassidy said the minimum age for children to receive free dental care is 12.

Besides the dental care, patrons will also receive giveaways like toothbrushes and floss. Refreshments will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

“[The DeKalb Dental Group] wanted to reward their patients and bring in new ones,” Lueken said.

Cassidy said the Heartland Dental Group, which has more than 280 offices in 17 states, encourages its offices to participate in the event.

“It’s something every office does once a year,” she said. “We wanted to get involved.”

Cassidy said the DeKalb Dental Group decided to cap the number of people who receive free dental care at 100 based on the experiences on other offices that have participated.

“Based on past events, they have been able to do a little more than 100…we’ll see how the speed of the day goes,” Cassidy said.