Connecticut Mission of Mercy returns to Waterbury for the 18th Free Dental Clinic

WATERBURY, Conn. (WTNH) — The Connecticut Foundation for Dental Outreach hosted their 18th Connecticut Mission of Mercy Free Dental Clinic Saturday in Waterbury.

The free clinic, located at the Wilby High School Center on Bucks Hill Road, was staffed by 1,100 volunteers and was projected to serve more than 1,700 patients before the end of the weekend.

“The need is huge,” said Dr. Suzanne Lagarde, co-lead of medical triage at Saturday’s event. “A full third of people don’t get routine dental care, in large part because of cost.”

There were 80 different dental stations that offered exams, x-rays, cleanings, extractions, fillings, root canals on front teeth and more.

Accessibility was a priority for those organizing the event, with some visitors even coming from out of state to be seen. Elderly and veterans were also given preferential treatment.

Dr. Legard told News 8, “If you’ve ever had a toothache you know how miserable it can be and we’re here to help those folks.”