The American Board of Dental Examiners contributed $25,000 to Mission of Mercy Texas, a nonprofit organization that provides free health care services to disadvantaged communities. According to the organization, the contribution is intended to expand access to essential dental care for uninsured individuals across south Texas who lack financial resources for treatment.
The funds combine individual donations from American Board of Dental Examiners and attendees of the Dental Testing & Regulatory Summit, held outside Dallas, Texas, with additional matching funds from the organization. According to the organization, the contribution will support Mission of Mercy’s dental clinic operations, equipment upgrades, and specialized care programs in South Texas communities where dental services are limited.
“ADEX’s contribution arrives at a critical time when dental care remains out of reach for thousands of Texans. This funding will directly translate to pain relief, restored smiles, and improved health for patients who've gone years without seeing a dentist,” said Sherry Bowers, executive director of Mission of Mercy. “The dental professionals at ADEX are changing lives through their tangible support.”
Mission of Mercy has provided more than 80,000 free patient visits since 2007, served more than 9,200 established patients, and dispensed more than 52,000 free prescriptions. According to the organization, its dental clinic offers preventive and restorative dental care to uninsured individuals who would otherwise be unable to access dental services.
“Our members recognize that ensuring quality dental care reaches all communities is essential to public health and safety,” said Alex Vandiver, ceo of the American Board of Dental Examiners. “When we support organizations like Mission of Mercy, we’re extending our commitment to public protection beyond licensure exams.”
According to the organization, the donation reflects participation by dental professionals who attended the Dental Testing & Regulatory Summit and Educators Conference, which brings together the American Association of Dental Administrators, the American Board of Dental Examiners, and the American Association of Dental Boards each year. The five-day event focuses on advancing licensure standards nationwide.
The organization stated that the contribution builds on a broader commitment to community health initiatives. At last year’s summit in Louisville, Kentucky, attendees raised $25,000 for Kosair for Kids.
Established in 1969, the American Board of Dental Examiners is a not-for-profit organization that supports state dental boards in licensure activities for oral health professionals. According to the association, its examinations are accepted or required by law in fifty-one United States jurisdictions and serve as the initial licensure pathway for most dental and dental hygiene candidates nationwide. More information is available at adextesting.org.
