Mission of Mercy free dental clinic returns with vaccine requirement

After cancelling the summer 2020 event for covid-19 precautions, Mission of Mercy Pittsburgh has announced the return of its annual free dental clinic.

The clinic is scheduled for Oct. 22 and 23 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

However, with an anticipated surge this year due to last year’s cancellation and the economic conditions that have caused many to lose their insurance, extra safety protocols are being put in place.

Patients seeking treatment and all volunteers, including dental, medical and general volunteers, will have to show proof of vaccination or a negative covid test taken within 48 hours of admission.

“Many in our community are experiencing job loss; others are working but without dental insurance. For these and other underserved populations, the cost of dental care is simply beyond reach,” said Mission of Mercy co-founder Dr. Daniel Pituch, DMD chief of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at UPMC Mercy and UPMC Shadyside.

“Individuals with no alternative are postponing oral care until they cannot handle the pain and end up at hospital emergency departments, which are strained to provide dental care while serving the covid-19 and other emergency patients.”

Pituch said poor dental health can strain a person’s immune system and lead to serious disease through infection and chronic inflammation.

“Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight, and poor dental health causes pain, discomfort and embarrassment for the individual affected.”

Some of the procedures available at the Mission of Mercy Pittsburgh Dental Clinic will include dental exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals on select teeth and oral hygiene instruction.

“We are committed to providing the highest standard of safety at the clinic and do not want to turn away any patient in need of care,” said Keith Young, Mission of Mercy chairman.

Young said over 800 volunteers have signed up, including 100 dentists.