Dentists, dental hygienists and assistants are volunteering their time in Sheboygan this weekend to help out those who aren’t able to visit a dental office. Dr. Gene Shoemaker, state program chair of the Mission of Mercy, says people don’t realize that dental health is a part of overall health, “Unfortunately a lot of patients we see at MOM programs throughout the country, people have infections and/or pain. People don’t realize that dental infections can be a life threatening illness for people.”
This is the second time the Wisconsin Dental Association has sponsored a MOM clinic, the first took place in LaCrosse last year. Shoemaker says they exceeded their goals in the number of patients that were seen and the amount of dentistry provided.
The WDA is expecting 1,000 patients each day of the Sheboygan clinic, taking place today and tomorrow. Volunteers include 175 dentists, dental clinic staffers and students from Marquette University.
The access to care has no restrictions regarding income. Doors open at six in the morning each day at Sheboygan North High School. Photo identification, social security number or other personal ID and documentation are not required. Spanish and Hmong translators will be on hand.