Mission of Mercy

Oral health is more than a nice smile. It affects a person’s ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, and eat.  Plus, tooth decay and gum disease have been linked with other health problems like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, as well as premature births.  Given the link between oral diseases and other systemic health problems, it is critical to maintain good oral health.  A startling 42% of Arizona adults over 65 years have lost 6 or more teeth due to decay or gum disease.

To help those who desperately need dental care, the AzDA Cares Foundation hosts an annual Dental Mission of Mercy (AZ MOM) event at the Arizona Fairgrounds using portable dental equipment and 1,000 volunteers. Dental screenings and services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, at no charge to those who attend.  Approximately $1M in basic dental care such as fillings, extractions, and cleanings, is expected to be delivered to 2,000 patients (both adults and kids).  AZ MOM is able to provide $16 of treatment for every $2 donated due to the generosity of our sponsors, donors, and volunteers.

The AZ MOM event focuses on:

• Providing free access to dental care while placing a high priority on patients suffering from dental infections or pain.
• Raising public awareness of the increasing difficulty low-income adults and children face in accessing critical dental care.
• Creating health care advocates via the hundreds of volunteers participating in the event.

Everyone Deserves a Healthy Smile!

Please note: these times are subject to change