Smiling Again in Portland

Mainely Teeth’s mission is to break down barriers to oral health care and provide access to quality, compassionate dental care to individuals, families, and communities.

“It was never lost on me how much a smile could do for somebody,” recalls Amber. “My dad, a dentist, would set aside specific days of the week to care for those who couldn't afford it.” 

For most, medical care is well funded and available. Dental care is funded differently. Many fall through the cracks, especially among the impoverished. “How can it be possible that cavities are the most prevalent childhood disease, besides the common cold?”      

Mainely Teeth started during the pandemic, using a mobile unit with 2 dental chairs. “The goal was to meet people, to go to where they are.” 

During the pandemic, The Root Cellar’s dental clinic was unable to operate, as all dental clinics closed or limited the number of patients they could see. In turn, dentists were unable to volunteer with our clinic. 

In June of this past year, our team got a chance to hear Amber’s story. All of us were taken aback by her passion for this work and how she sees it as an extension of her faith.  

Amber came to us at The Root Cellar with a waiting list of 900 names. She needed additional space to serve the many refugees, asylum seekers, children, homeless shelter residents, and others. The more we talked, it was clear that God wanted to open a new door for Mainely Teeth and The Root Cellar. 

Since that day in June, Amber has been seeing patients at The Root Cellar 3 to 4 days each week. On average, Mainely Teeth is providing care for 250+ patients a month. “It normally starts with one kid with a need.” This turns quickly into a full family visit, siblings and parents. 

“I feel like this is what God wants me to do. I know I didn’t get here on my own,” remarks Amber.

We agree, Amber. We can’t wait to see what God has in store for this partnership!