Glenwood Springs High School will be transformed into a large-scale dental clinic providing free treatment to adults and children in need of dental care on October 4-5.

Colorado Mission of Mercy's (CMOM) goal is to treat 800 patients each day on a first-come, first-served basis. People of all ages are encouraged to come get free dental care. A parent or guardian must accompany persons under 18. Spanish and other language interpreters will be available to assist patients.

There are no appointments, and doors will close when the clinic reaches capacity, which can happen early in the day. Doors will open at 6 a.m. both days.

Patients will undergo a health and dental evaluation, and then be provided with cleanings, fillings, root canals and extractions. Dentists and dental lab techs will also prepare ceramic crowns, dentures and flippers. More than $1 million in donated dental services will be provided to patients.

Dr. Jim Setterberg, a member of COMOM’s leadership team, said that it takes more than 1,000 volunteers to make the clinic possible, including nearly 200 dentists and 100 dental hygienists.

“Patients initially meet with a health and dental provider to assess their oral health concerns, and then proceed to a clinic department for treatment,” Setterberg explained. “They will be able to receive fillings, extractions, cleanings and much more.”

To promote sustained oral health, and to mitigate future pain, patients are given one-on-one instruction on how to care for their teeth and the importance of balanced nutrition and preventive dental care.

Oral health affects whole body health. It can compromise nutrition, communication, self-esteem and a person’s ability to find employment. Over the last 12 years, COMOM has transformed the lives of more than 15,000 patients and provided $13 million in donated dental care.

“This is a program that literally gives people something to smile about,” said Grand Junction dentist Dr. George Gatseos.

For more information, visit www. comom.org.