The Oregon Dental Association (ODA) is hosting its fourth Oregon Mission of Mercy (OrMOM) free dental clinic November 25th & 26th at the Oregon Convention Center. Just like in years previous, dental screenings and services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, at no charge to those who attend.
“There is still a great need for access to critical dental care,” stated the 2013 OrMOM Chair, Dr. Teri Barichello. “Although charity care is not a solution to the problem, we want to do what we can by helping some of those patients suffering from dental infections or pain.”
All work will be provided for free by a team of over 1600 volunteers including dentists, dental hygienists, assistants, OHSU School of Dentistry students and community members who are donating their time and skills. Cleanings, fillings, extractions and limited treatment partials will be offered. Volunteer Spanish, Russian and Vietnamese translators will be available to assist patients.
Last year’s Oregon Mission of Mercy MOM provided $829,119.15 worth of treatment to 1554 patients, made possible by community partners who made monetary and in kind contributions to OrMOM. A complete list of this year’s sponsors can be found at www.oregondental.org
Education is the most cost-effective way to reduce oral disease among patients, including those covered by medical assistance. Helping patients understand the importance of good daily oral hygiene practices, healthy diet and routine preventive dental care will be an essential part of Oregon MOM event.
“All dental disease is preventable,” Dr. Barichello noted, “Good dental hygiene and regular check-ups with a dentist can help ensure good oral health. With effective oral health education and prevention programs there wouldn’t be a need for patients to wait in a long line for emergency care.”
Please Note: Services may not be provided to individuals who have medically-compromising conditions, such as extremely high blood pressure or severe disabilities that prohibit receiving care. Children under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Photo identification, social security number or other personal identification/documentation is NOT required. Clinic doors will open at 5:30am each day. On average $6 to $8 in critically-needed dental care is delivered for every dollar donated, making community sponsors of this program very important.
The Oregon Dental Association (ODA) is hosting its fourth Oregon Mission of Mercy (OrMOM) free dental clinic November 25th & 26th at the Oregon Convention Center. Just like in years previous, dental screenings and services will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis, at no charge to those who attend.
November 22, 2013
