The Iowa Mercy Mission (IMOM) has long been known for its free dental clinics, with patient lines forming before the doors even open at 6 a.m. Every year, volunteer dentists, dental hygienists, and assistants provide services ranging from cleanings to extractions to those in need.
This September, faculty, staff, and students from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry will partner with IMOM volunteers to host a two-day free dental clinic in Coralville—the first time the event has been held there.
Brendan Young, associate professor and director of behavioral sciences at the College of Dentistry, has volunteered with IMOM for four years. He recalls meeting a woman who relied entirely on this annual event for her oral health care.
“The long lines showed us there was a real need,” Young said. “Patients come, grateful for the opportunity, and leave feeling relieved and grateful.”
According to an IMOM press release, the Coralville clinic will be held September 19th and 20th at the Hyatt Regency Coralville Hotel and Conference Center. The temporary clinic will accommodate 100 chairs and will be open daily until capacity is reached.
Since its founding in 2008, IMOM has served over 18,000 patients in Iowa. Carrie McKnight, a clinical associate professor of oral pathology, radiology, and medicine at the University of Iowa, has served as a volunteer for nearly a decade.
She noted that each clinic typically provides approximately $1 million worth of dental care. However, she anticipates the value of dental care in Coralville will exceed this figure.
The clinic welcomes everyone, regardless of age, insurance, income, or residence. Services include cleanings, fillings, root canals, exams, and more. Patients will also receive information and supplies to continue their care at home.
Young explained that barriers such as high costs, fear, and stigma often prevent people from seeking dental care. Many people avoid seeing a dentist due to concerns about pain, extractions, or embarrassment about missing or bleeding teeth.
“Oral health impacts relationships, employability, and just about every aspect of life,” he said. “At IMOM, we treat everyone with respect and focus on their individual needs.”
Running a clinic like this requires tremendous effort—finding a suitable location, installing equipment, and ensuring basic infrastructure.
Volunteers include not only dental professionals but also community members who provide childcare and even install temporary water lines.
McKnight emphasized the active participation of students, faculty, and local dentists this year. She said that for students, working at IMOM reinforces a core part of their education: learning how to serve those most in need.
While not all dental problems can be resolved in a single visit, patients often experience pain relief and regained confidence. “They are always so grateful,” McKnight said. “It’s so gratifying to be able to help.”