We were pleased to be a part of the first ever Missouri Mission of Mercy (MOMOM)!  This two day event took place September 23-24, 2011 in Springfield, MO.  Its goal was to provide dental care to individuals who would not otherwise be able to afford it.

Drs. Patrick Ruopp and Nathan Seyer along with their chairside assistants, Sherry Tenkhoff and Lynsey Lowry, traveled to the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield as event volunteers. There they teamed up with 176 other dentists, 83 hygienists, 168 other assistants, 3 physicians, 25 nurses, and hundreds of volunteers to provide free care to nearly 2000 individuals.  Organized by the Greater Springfield Dental Society and the Missouri Dental Association, the two day event provided dental cleanings, exams, fillings, extractions, and partials/dentures among other services to 1,856 children and adults.

While Dr. Pat and Dr. Nate did fillings and extractions, other services were provided including cleanings, removable prosthetics, and pediatric services.  We were also pleased to see the familiar faces of Dr. Shannon Kirchoff and Dr. Bill Kane from Southeast Missouri.  Together with the thousands of volunteers, our Southeast Missouri dental team provided over $1,000,000 in free care! 

It was an amazing effort put together by volunteers across the state of Missouri, and we feel privileged for such a giving opportunity.  After this year’s success, plans are already in the works for another event in 2012. 

If you would like more information on MOMOM or volunteering for next year, please visit the MDA’s website at www.modental.org.