HUTCHINSON, Kan. – On Friday, people from across Kansas gathered at the Kansas State Fairgrounds to access free dental care during the Kansas Mission of Mercy (KMOM) annual clinic. This event, now in its 24th year, provides life-changing services to individuals who might not otherwise afford dental care.
The KMOM clinic operates on a simple philosophy: no red tape, no insurance requirements—just pure giving and helping. According to co-founder Jon Tilton, this initiative began after he attended a similar event in Virginia in 2001 and saw the profound impact it had on the community.
A Tradition of Giving Back
Over the past 23 years, the Kansas Mission of Mercy has provided free dental care to over 39,000 patients, delivering more than $23 million worth of services. The clinic rotates its location yearly, with last year’s event in Salina and this year’s in Hutchinson.
“This is what giving is all about,” Tilton shared. “It’s the greatest reward we can receive in life.”
The event is supported by 85 dentists and hundreds of volunteers who dedicate their time to make the clinic a success. Dr. Rob Dakin, a volunteer dentist who has participated for five years, emphasized the joy of helping patients:
“We’ve had wonderful patients this morning. Some people come in terrified, and by the time they leave, they’re hugging us and saying they’re no longer afraid of the dentist,” said Dr. Dakin.
Volunteers Making a Difference
The clinic also provides opportunities for dental hygiene students to gain hands-on experience while helping those in need. Jandalyn Guinn, a dental hygiene student from Wichita State University, described the event as an invaluable learning opportunity:
“This is a great stepping stone to get into the field and become more comfortable working with people. I can definitely see myself coming back to volunteer again,” she said.
A Lifeline for Kansans in Need
Patients came from cities across Kansas, including Derby, Wichita, Great Bend, Garden City, Dodge City, Manhattan, Salina, and Atchison, to receive care. Many camped outside the night before, braving the cold to secure a spot.
Justin Roy, a patient from Derby, had been struggling with dental pain for years. “I needed a root canal that would have cost me $800. Camping outside in the cold was a small price to pay,” he said.
Renee Buckley, a Wichita resident who attends the clinic annually, praised the professionalism of the volunteers. “I’ve got a lot of faith in them,” she said. Buckley encouraged others to overcome their fear of the dentist: “It takes courage, but give them a chance. They’re here to help you with your health and your teeth.”
How the Clinic Works
The KMOM clinic operates on a first-come, first-served basis, offering services such as cleanings, extractions, x-rays, and fillings. By 8:15 a.m. on Friday, the clinic had already reached its capacity of 400 patients for the day.
“You don’t often see people standing in line overnight for a dentist,” Tilton noted. “But it shows just how desperate people are for care.”
To ensure comfort for those waiting, organizers arranged indoor spaces to shelter patients from the cold.
Impact on the Community
The Kansas Mission of Mercy not only provides immediate relief to patients but also raises awareness about the importance of dental health. For many attendees, the clinic is their only opportunity to receive professional dental care.
Dr. Dakin shared a heartfelt moment from his volunteering experience: “Sometimes, people are in so much pain that they cry tears of relief after we help them. Those moments remind us why we’re here.”
Continuing the Tradition
The KMOM clinic will open again Saturday morning at 5:30 a.m., ready to serve another 400 patients. Organizers remain committed to making a difference in the lives of Kansans, one smile at a time.
“This event is about more than just dental care—it’s about hope and humanity,” Tilton concluded.
Key Takeaways
- Community Impact: Over 23 years, KMOM has provided $23 million in free dental care to 39,000 patients.
- Volunteer Support: Dentists, students, and community members work together to bring this event to life.
- Life-Changing Services: Patients travel from all over Kansas, often camping overnight, to receive essential dental care.
- Accessibility: The clinic ensures no one is left out by eliminating barriers like insurance and cost.
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Hundreds of Kansans Receive Free Dental Care During Kansas Mission of Mercy
Hundreds of Kansans Receive Free Dental Care During Kansas Mission of Mercy
Hundreds of Kansans Receive Free Dental Care During Kansas Mission of Mercy