Patients

We are pleased to announce that the tenth Florida Mission of Mercy will be held at Mainland High School in Daytona Beach, FL March 21-22, 2025. SAVE THE DATE!

What is FLA-MOM?

The FDA Foundation launched its signature philanthropic program in 2014, the Florida Mission of Mercy (FLA-MOM). FLA-MOM is the state's largest charitable dental clinic that provides care to any patient at no cost, with the goal of serving the underserved and uninsured in Florida.

The Florida Mission of Mercy seeks to have a positive impact on communities by providing important access to dental care while restoring dignity and creating smiles.

We are happy to announce that the tenth Florida Mission of Mercy will be held in Daytona Beach, FL at Mainland High School.

2025 Florida Mission of Mercy
March 21 - 22, 2025

Mainland High School, 1255 W. International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

When and where is FLA-MOM?

2025 Florida Mission of Mercy
March 21 - 22, 2025

Mainland High School

1255 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114


Who should come to FLA-MOM?

FLA-MOM  treats patients of all ages, from elderly to children.

  • Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian to receive treatment.
  • Patients will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • While the goal is to be able to treat as many patients as possible, there is no guarantee of treatment.
  • Every attempt will be made to care for those who are present.
  • If you have dental pain prior to FLA-MOM, you are advised to seek medical attention.  Please do NOT wait to seek care, as this could be a sign of a serious condition. If dental pain is severe and accompanied by fever or swelling, go to a hospital emergency room immediately!
  • Patient companions will NOT be permitted in the clinic if treatment is not needed.  Companions assisting patients with physical limitations or cognitive impairments may accompany patients.  Interpreters may also assists patients.  FLA-MOM will have volunteers available to assist with some languages.

Who can receive treatment at FLA-MOM?

Patients willing to wait in line who do not have medically compromising conditions can be treated.

  • Patients may be seen whether they are uninsured, under-insured, or insured.
  • Photo identification, Social Security Number or other personal identification/documentation will NOT be required.
  • Volunteer interpreters will be available to assist patients who speak a language other than English. If you do not speak English, please bring an interpreter, as we cannot guarantee an interpreter will be available to assist you.
  • We do have a small pediatric dentistry department. Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by parent or guardian at all times.

NOTE: Take your usual daily medications as directed by your physician. If you are unsure whether you can have local anesthesia (“numb sensation”) and dental care in an outpatient setting, please ask a physician before you arrive.

If we think it’s unsafe for you to receive dental care due to uncontrolled medical conditions, we will not treat you.

What services are provided at FLA-MOM?

  • Cleanings
  • Fillings
  • Extractions
  • Some root canals (depends on location)
  • Pediatric dentistry
  • Oral health education
  • X-rays
  • Some partials 
  • SEDATION AND NARCOTICS NOT AVAILABLE OR ONSITE.

If you have dental pain, please do NOT wait to seek care, as this could be a sign of a serious condition. If dental pain is severe and accompanied by fever or swelling, go to a hospital emergency room immediately! For a list of low-cost dental clinics, please visit fdacares.com.

What services are not provided at FLA-MOM?

  • Bone grafting
  • Braces
  • Crowns
  • Extraction of unerupted wisdom teeth
  • Gum surgery
  • Implants 
  • Tooth whitening (bleaching)

What should I expect at FLA-MOM?

Patients at FLA-MOM  can expect quality dental care provided at no cost by licensed dental and medical professionals. 

Volunteers will treat patients with dignity and respect while providing needed dental care. 

Our goal is to treat as many people as we can while placing a priority on relieving dental pain and treating infections.

  • Patients will begin with registration, oral health education and medical triage before their dental needs are assessed.
  • Patients will then receive a full panoramic X-ray followed by a consultation in dental triage to determine the patient's most urgent need.
  • Treatment is limited to one quadrant of the patient’s mouth where there is the most critical need.
  • Please eat a good meal prior to arriving at FLA-MOM.

As FLA-MOM volunteer dentists make an effort to treat as many patients as possible, the time spent at the clinic may be several hours to accommodate for patient flow and treatment.

Please eat a good meal prior to arriving at the clinic.

2023 FLA MOM

How long will it take at FLA-MOM?

Plan to be on-site for 3 - 5 hours. This is a first come, first serve clinic. We plan to treat nearly 2,000 patients.

Please be aware that FLA-MOM volunteer dentists make an effort to treat as many patients as possible without compromising patient care.  

  • Eat a good meal prior to arriving at the clinic.
  • Dress warmly - clinic may be cold.
  • Make sure your cell phone is charged.

Will everyone be seen at FLA-MOM?

There is no guarantee of treatment. Patients are seen until the day’s capacity is met. All patients must go through a medical health screening and must meet requirements for blood pressure, blood-clotting and blood sugar levels in order to be receive dental treatment.

We reserve the right to refuse treatment to anyone who has signs of intoxication or illegal drug use or is found to be threatening to other patients and/or volunteers.

For a list of low-cost dental clinics throughout the state, please visit fdacares.com.

Will all the work I need be completed?

The most critical need of the patient will be addressed.

FLA-MOM is a two-day, professional dental clinic staffed by volunteer dental, medical and community volunteers who donate their time and talents to provide dental care to the community at no cost.

Can I get nitrous or general anesthetic at FLA-MOM?

We only use local anesthetic for procedures requiring numbing at FLA-MOM. No nitrous oxide will be on-site.

2023 FLA Mission of Mercy

Can I smoke at FLA-MOM?

No smoking is allowed on the premises. Once you enter the building, you cannot leave without giving up your place in line. No exceptions.

No smoking

Where can I park at FLA-MOM?

There will be free on-site parking. There will be "Patient Parking" signage. Designated disabled spots will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

FLA Mission of Mercy waiting area

What should I bring to FLA-MOM?

  • Please bring your patience.
  • Prior to arriving you should take any prescription medications that you currently are prescribed.  It is best to bring a list of prescribed medications to share with the FLA-MOM medical triage department.
  • You may have to wait outside for several hours, so please dress accordingly. Bring sunscreen, bug repellent, blankets and things to help pass the time (e.g. books, cards).
  • Often times our patients are cold inside the clinic. Please bring a sweatshirt or blanket to stay warm. Our dental volunteers wear gloves, masks and gowns and with so many people in the building, it is imperative that the air conditioning is set to keep the providers comfortable.
  • If your child needs to receive treatment, be sure to pack diapers and a change of clothes to keep them comfortable.  We recommend you also bring items to keep them entertained.
  • FLA-MOM does not have childcare available.  We recommend that you do not bring children to FLA-MOM if they do not need to see the dentist.
  • Phone chargers are important to bring since you will be at FLA-MOM for several hours.
  • Please note that everything you bring must be carried with you or returned to your car before entering the building.
  • You will not be allowed to leave and re-enter the building without losing your place in line.
2023 Mission of Mercy preparation

Who provides my treatment at FLA-MOM?

Licensed dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants provide the majority of care. Some fourth-year dental students from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, Nova Southeastern University School of Dental Medicine and LECOM School of Dental Medicine (under supervision of faculty members or school-approved preceptors) may also provide care.

2023 Florida Mission of Mercy

Will I receive any prescriptions at FLA-MOM?

We do not have any narcotics onsite.

After extractions, some patients will receive a written prescription for other medications to be filled at a pharmacy.

Oral exam

Do the dentists or other volunteers get compensated to work at FLA-MOM?

No. Everyone providing care and helping at the clinic is a volunteer. No one is paid.

Patient receiving care from dental team

Who pays for the supplies and equipment at FLA-MOM?

The event is hosted by the Florida Dental Association Foundation who has numerous sponsors and donors that provide either cash or in-kind donations to make this event possible.

Do I need to have dental insurance?

We do not file any type of insurance claims or accept any forms of payment. All services are provided at no charge to FLA-MOM patients.

FLA MOM Registration

Is there a maximum income level for FLA-MOM patients?

All patients are treated on a first-come, first-served basis regardless of employment, citizenship, residency, or financial status. FLA-MOM will be conducting a research survey and may ask patients several questions, but the survey is optional and will not impact your ability to get treatment.

Dental patient smiling with providers

Do you see patients in wheelchairs at FLA-MOM?

Yes. Patients will need to transfer in and out of a treatment chair either on their own or with assistance.

Patient in wheelchair

Are pets allowed inside the facility?

ADA service animals are permitted in the venue. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any guide dog, signal dog or other animal individually trained to aid an individual with a disability. Service dogs must be appropriately harnessed and have current vaccination certificates and documentation.

No family pets or animals are allowed.

Service dog at FLA MOM

Will childcare be available at FLA-MOM?

No. Only children receiving treatment will be permitted to enter FLA-MOM. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by parent or guardian at all times.

Parent and child at FLA MOM

How can I volunteer at FLA-MOM?

Volunteering is not a requirement to receive care, nor does it assure a place in line.

We need the following types of volunteers:

  • Dentists, Hygienists, Dental Assistants
  • Dental Lab Technicians
  • Physician, Nurses, EMTs
  • General Community Volunteers
    • Patient Registration
    • Volunteer Registration
    • Patient Escorts
    • Interpreters
    • Parking Attendants
    • Hospitality

    FLA MOM Volunteers

Patient Comments from the 2023 FLA-MOM