Dental Team

The mission of the Medical Missionaries of Divine Mercy Dental Clinic is to serve and treat every patient with the same professional care, respect, and compassion that is afforded any private practice patient.

After many years of service, we have been fortunate to have accumulated an inventory of equipment and supplies that allows us to provide our patients with top-of-the-line dental care.  We are currently able to set up 10 professional dental operatories with A-dec portable dental units.  We have 3 Tuttnauer autoclaves, 2 portable digital x-ray units, 6 ultrasonic scalers (cavitrons), a limited supply of headlights, and a plethora of hand instruments and supplies.

Upon arrival at the mission, patients are first registered, assigned a patient number, and triaged through the Medical Clinic.  Once they complete this portion of their visit they proceed to the Dental Clinic where they are greeted by a smiling face assuring them we will do all in our power to see them as quickly and efficiently as possible.   After ascertaining a patient’s chief complaint, the dental triage team will perform a thorough problem focused dental triage.  If circumstances mandate antibiotics prior to treatment, a dentist is consulted to perform a quick evaluation and prescribe the appropriate medication. The prescription is filled, and x-rays are taken in preparation for the patient’s return visit.  The patient is then given a return tag to assure an easy return for their treatment later in the week.   If no pretreatment medication is required the patients are categorized into one of two areas: either hygiene or treatment.
Hygiene patients are immediately put in line to see the first available hygienist.  There they will receive a thorough cleaning and education on proper oral hygiene.  Should the hygienist suspect that treatment is necessary she will alert a member of the dental triage team to make sure the patient is put in line to be seen by a dentist and any pretreatment x-rays needed are taken.

Deeming treatment is necessary, patients are immediately sent to x-ray to prepare them for seeing a dentist.  After being x-rayed the patient is put in line for the first available dentist.  Once assigned to a dentist our patient is given a thorough examination and advised of the treatment recommended.  Following the completed treatment, in an effort to insure all their medication needs are met, our patients leave the Dental Clinic with any pain medication and/or antibiotics prescribed.   Patients needing additional treatment will be given a return tag for a day later in the week.

Dental Clinic missionaries need bring little more than a willingness to serve the Lord, the poor and the needy coupled with an open heart and inviting smile.  MMDM makes every attempt to meet the needs of our professionals; however, many choose to bring their personal microscopes and headlights to insure their comfort and efficiency.  During clinic hours the dental team missionaries wear comfortable clothing suitable for any dental practice, i.e., scrubs, slacks and t-shirts, comfortable shoes.

I can honestly say that each mission is a unique experience and that I have come away from every mission receiving more than I gave, made new friends, and have a greater appreciation of the many blessings in my life.  Thank you for your interest in the Medical Missionaries of Divine Mercy Dental Clinic and the work we do.  As the dental team coordinator I welcome the opportunity to answer any questions you may have regarding future missions.