UTHSC Students and Faculty Deliver Smiles at Mid-South Mission
UTHSC’s Commitment to Community and Compassion
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) has long been dedicated to improving health outcomes through education, research, and service. That dedication comes to life in vibrant ways every year — one of the most remarkable being participation in the Mid-South Mission of Mercy, an annual initiative that provides free dental care to underserved individuals across Memphis and the Mid-South.
Each year, hundreds of people line up before sunrise seeking pain relief, preventive care, and a chance to smile again. At the heart of this effort are UTHSC dental students and faculty members who give their time, expertise, and hearts to ensure that no one goes without care due to financial hardship. The event embodies UTHSC’s mission to serve others while offering students transformative real-world learning.
What is the Mid-South Mission of Mercy?
The Mid-South Mission of Mercy (MSMOM) is a two-day free dental clinic held annually in Memphis. It brings together dental professionals, hygienists, assistants, and students from across the region to deliver essential oral care to individuals who otherwise might not have access.
Organized entirely by volunteers and community partners, the mission provides a full range of dental services — from cleanings and fillings to extractions and restorative treatments — all free of charge. Beyond restoring teeth, this event restores hope and confidence for the thousands it serves.
Since its first clinic, MSMOM has treated thousands of patients and provided millions of dollars in professional dental services. For many, it’s the difference between living in pain and rediscovering the joy of eating, speaking, and smiling comfortably again.
UTHSC Students and Faculty as Key Volunteers
UTHSC’s College of Dentistry plays a central role at MSMOM. In the most recent event, dozens of students and faculty showed up early, suited in scrubs and face shields, ready to serve. Their volunteer roles spanned across patient triage, dental procedures, oral health education, and even logistics management.
For the students, volunteering at MSMOM is more than community service — it’s a vital part of their education. Working side-by-side with experienced faculty and licensed professionals, students gain hands-on experience treating real patients under sometimes challenging conditions.
- Clinical experience: Students gain confidence performing procedures they’ve practiced in simulation labs.
- Teamwork and mentorship: Faculty use the event as an opportunity to mentor students and model compassionate care.
- Community connection: Serving diverse groups strengthens awareness of public health disparities and the importance of accessible care.
The blend of education and empathy makes the event deeply meaningful. Many participants describe it as a milestone moment that reframes their purpose as healthcare professionals.
Providing Free Dental Care to Underserved Residents
The patients who attend MSMOM often face barriers to care — lack of dental insurance, transportation challenges, or limited income. UTHSC volunteers meet these needs head-on, providing treatments that make an immediate difference in quality of life.
Over the course of the event, dental teams complete hundreds of procedures including exams, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and fluoride treatments. Each patient also receives guidance on long-term oral hygiene and lifestyle habits for maintaining better health.
“It’s amazing what a few hours of care can do — patients walk out with smiles and tears of gratitude.”
— UTHSC Volunteer Faculty Member
The emotional impact of helping people regain comfort and dignity is profound. For UTHSC’s volunteers, it reinforces why they chose dentistry — to serve others and improve lives.
Teamwork, Compassion, and Educational Impact
Beyond clinical work, MSMOM showcases the spirit of collaboration among healthcare professionals. UTHSC students partner not only with dental experts but also with medical personnel, community advocates, and public health organizers. This interdisciplinary teamwork highlights how integrated support can elevate community outcomes.
- Interprofessional collaboration: Students from different health sciences fields collaborate to support patient care.
- Empathy in action: Volunteers spend time listening to patients’ stories, demonstrating that compassion is as critical as skill.
- Hands-on learning: Students experience the challenges and rewards of working under pressure, serving hundreds of patients efficiently.
Faculty members often note how participation deepens student understanding of patient-centered care. It transforms classroom principles into tangible acts of service and strengthens the connection between education and community well-being.
Inspiring Ongoing Service and Future Engagement
The positive ripple effects of UTHSC’s involvement extend far beyond a single weekend. Students who serve at MSMOM frequently continue participating in outreach programs throughout their careers. Faculty members leverage these events to mentor new generations, instilling values of empathy, teamwork, and lifelong learning.
UTHSC’s College of Dentistry remains committed to expanding outreach programs and partnerships across the Mid-South region. Through continuous involvement in initiatives like MSMOM, the university helps shape healthcare access and awareness for years to come.
Patients are also encouraged to stay engaged with UTHSC’s dental clinics, where affordable treatment options and education resources promote lasting oral health.
Delivering Brighter Smiles, Building a Healthier Future
At its core, the Mid-South Mission of Mercy is more than a free dental event — it’s a reminder that healthcare is rooted in humanity. Every filling, cleaning, and consultation reflects the dedication of UTHSC students and faculty to their mission: to educate, serve, and uplift.
The smiles restored through this outreach represent much more than healthy teeth; they symbolize renewed confidence and dignity. Through acts of service, UTHSC continues to foster hope and healing in communities that need it most.
As volunteers often say, the experience enriches them as much as it aids patients — proof that giving kindness always multiplies its impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Mid-South Mission of Mercy?
It’s an annual free dental care event held in Memphis where dental professionals and volunteers provide treatment to underserved residents across the region.
2. Who organizes the event?
The event is organized by a coalition of dental professionals, community partners, and educational institutions, including strong participation from UTHSC’s College of Dentistry.
3. What types of dental services are offered?
Volunteers provide cleanings, fillings, extractions, x-rays, dental exams, and oral health education — all free of charge.
4. Why does UTHSC participate?
UTHSC’s mission emphasizes community service and experiential learning. The event allows students and faculty to apply their skills while serving those who need care the most.
5. How can individuals support or volunteer?
Interested participants can contact local dental associations or visit UTHSC’s website to explore volunteer opportunities that contribute to community health initiatives like MSMOM.
Post Disclaimer
DentalUp is for educational purposes only and cannot accept personal dental information such as x-rays, photos, or treatment details. See full disclaimer here.
