Sacramento Topics

Renée C. Byer rbyer@sacbee.com Mike Martinez of Modesto gets his new dentures checked by Dr. John Nardone at a free clinic held by the California Dental Association at Cal Expo. A letter writer says dental technicians deserve as much recognition as dentists.

Yolanda Kinsey, 47, of Sacramento checks out the new dentures she got at Friday's free dental clinic put on by the California Dental Association at Cal Expo. Kinsey arrived with no upper teeth and with several bottom teeth missing; she left with a big smile and new confidence that she'll be able to land a job. The clinic continues today; dentists and dental professionals will provide cleanings, fillings and other procedures.

James Maxwell, 61, of Sacramento looks at his new dentures as Ellen Wallace, left, applauds his new smile. Her husband Dr. Lawrence Wallace, of Carmel Valley, has developed dentures that can be fitted in an hour for far less money than the traditional method, which involves four or five office visits. The free dental clinic was put on by the California Dental Association. Photo taken August 24, 2012 in Sacramento, California.