| Frequently asked questions about the Mid-Ohio valley Mission of Mercy free dental project:
Dates: Friday, July 31 and Saturday, August 1, 2009
Hours: 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. each day
Location: West Virginia University at Parkersburg (WVU-P)
How do I make an appointment? You don't. The clinic is first come, first
served. Patients will be seen beginning at 6:00 a.m.
Who can receive help? Anyone 18 years of age or older is eligible to be
seen. The clinic is for the uninsured, underinsured, or anyone who can't
afford to see a dentist.
What services are provided? Patients will receive only one service -
extraction, restoration, or cleaning.
The term "one service" does not mean one tooth. It means one of three
services and this can be in more than one tooth.
Is transportation provided? Shuttle Bus service schedule will be
announced. Individuals who cannot make it to the pick-up areas will have
to provide their own transportation to and from the event.
What is the process? The doors will open at 6:00 a.m. each day. The first
600-700 people will receive numbers and begin the registration process. The
doors will close when the maximum number of people who can be treated is
reached. Some patients may be pre-screened for the second day of the clinic
and asked to arrive back at 5:30 a.m. Saturday. The process will be repeated
the second day.
Patients will go through registration, medical screening, an initial exam,
x-ray (if necessary) and will receive their dental treatment.
What items should I bring with me? Bring a list of your current medication
and all known allergies. If you have medication you need to take during the
day, be sure you bring what you will need while you are waiting.
If you are currently taking anticoagulants, or blood thinners, you must
provide a note from you physician that gives permission for treatment and
verifies that you have stopped taking the medication prior to treatment.
Bring a snack, a book or something else to keep yourself occupied. This is
a long process and will take several hours to complete.
Can people who don't live in West Virginia get assistance? Yes. There is
no eligibility screening. Anyone who is willing to wait in line for the
services can receive services.
Are they taking out wisdom teeth? Yes, on a case by case basis. Generally,
the dentists will be able to take out wisdom teeth if it does not require
actually putting the patient "under."
Can I have more than one tooth pulled? Yes, on a case by case basis.
Will I get dentures? No. No dentures will be provided this year.
Can I get a new bridge?* No, there will no bridges made or provided.
Do I need to bring x-rays?* X-rays will be provided on site. There is no
reason to bring them with you.
Do you serve children? No. This service is only for individuals age 18
and older.
Can I bring my children? This is a long day, and we strongly advise
against bringing children.
Is this only for expectant moms? No, this project is referred to as the
"M.O.M. Project" which stands for Mission of Mercy. We will see anyone over
the age of 18.
If I volunteer, can I get an appointment? No, even if you volunteer, you
will be treated like every other patient.
How will I know where to go when I get there?* Volunteers will be in the
parking lot at WVU-P and will direct you where you need to go.
Where is West Virginia University at Parkersburg? Located on Route 47
east of Parkersburg, WVU-P is approximately 2 miles from I-77. | 
