Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions

Why volunteer?

Volunteering at a Missions of Mercy project provides a sense of commitment and service with ourselves, our communities and our state. It is a soul satisfying experience because it comes from the goodness of your own heart, with no expectation of receiving anything in return. Your service at an NCMOM event also highlights the continued problem of access to care to the citizens, legislature, and leaders of North Carolina and proves the North Carolina Dental Society is the leading voice of dentistry in the state.

I am not a dentist. Can I still participate?

Absolutely. There are many areas we could use your help such as:

1. Dental hygienists. Please sign up at the Professional Volunteer page.
2. Dental Assistants. Please sign up at the Professional Volunteer page.
3. X-ray technicians. Please sign up at the Professional Volunteer page.
4. Lab technicians. Please sign up at the Professional Volunteer page.
5. Dental equipment maintenance. Please sign up at the Professional Volunteer page.
6. LPNs, RNs, nursing students, physicians, physician assistants, EMTs. Please sign up at the Professional Volunteer page.
7. Patient administration including escorts, runners, checkout and exit interviewers, trash collection, traffic and parking. Please sign up at the Community Volunteer page.
8. Translators. Please sign up at the Community Volunteer page.
9. Hospitality. Please sign up at the Community Volunteer page.
10. Load and unload trucks, setup or breakdown operatories. Please sign up at the Community Volunteer page. 

Can I bring my own equipment?

Yes. Please be sure to clearly mark/label them. All instruments that are clearly marked will be returned to their rightful owner.

What do I need to bring?

All supplies, tools and instruments needed are provided. However, please feel free to bring anything that makes you happy and productive! Volunteer dentists and hygienists, who bring their favorite instruments and set-ups, are usually the happiest.

Can my assistant be assigned to assist me during the event?

Yes. Please make note of it on the volunteer registration form. Also, please make sure that your assistant also registers and notes on their form whom they will be assisting.

Will snacks or lunch be provided?

Yes. A hospitality room will be setup for your use during the event. Continental style breakfast items, sandwiches, snacks, water and refreshments will be available.

What if I haven't received a confirmation email, should I still plan on coming?

YES! Still plan on coming on the day you registered for.  If you have additional questions, contact Madison Smith at smithmp@appstate.edu.

When should I arrive?

Professional volunteers should arrive at 6 AM or 11:30 AM. Community volunteers should arrive in accordance with the community volunteer job descriptions, generally at 5:30 AM, 6 AM or 11:30 AM as appropriate.

How long are the shifts?

Professional volunteer shifts are usually from 6 AM through 11:30 AM with the second shift starting at 11:30 AM through 5 PM. Community volunteer shifts are half day shifts approximately 6 hours in length. Shifts are generally from 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM or 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Can I work a partial shift?

Yes, if you are a professional volunteer please let us know in advance. Community and professional volunteer positions have already been established as partial day shifts.

What should I wear?

Scrubs, jeans, Capri pants, tee shirts, knit shirts and casual closed-toe shoes are required.  No shorts or open toe shoes are allowed.

What are the standards for Personal Protection Equipment?

All dental health care personnel engaged in direct patient-care in the operatory area must use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (e.g., gloves, masks, protective eyewear or face shield, and gowns). All PPE should be removed before leaving patient-care areas. Masks should be changed between patients and disposable gowns when visibly soiled or penetrated by other potentially infectious materials. NCMOM supplies gloves, cone and ear loop masks, disposable gowns and safety glasses. You may want to bring your own safety glasses.

Do I get continuing education credits for volunteering?

Yes, in accordance with these rules of the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners

Dental Hygienists. 21 NCAC 16I .0104 (f) Hygienists may receive one hour of continuing education credits per year for performing at least five hours of dental hygiene on a volunteer basis at any state, city or county operated site approved by the Dental Board. Credit will not be given for less than five hours of volunteer work.

My organization would like to become an NCMOM donor or sponsor. How do we do that?

Sponsorships and donations to support the Missions of Mercy projects should be made through the North Carolina Dental Health Fund. Your tax deductable contribution to the North Carolina Dental Health Fund helps to maintain or purchase equipment and supplies for monthly free dental clinics across North Carolina.

Make your donation by printing and mailing this donation form.

For additional information about the North Carolina Dental Health Fund.

Should you have any questions please call (919) 234-4037.

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