

Bridging Smiles. Transforming Lives
Our mission is to deliver critical oral health care to underserved families in urgent need.

Bringing Healthy Smiles to the Rio Grande Valley Since 1996
Founded in 1996, Dentists Who Care (DWC) is a nonprofit dedicated to improving oral health for uninsured children and adults in the Rio Grande Valley. What began as an effort to relieve pain and infection for children has grown into a region-wide mission, now serving individuals of all ages who lack access to affordable dental care.
Through a network of over 200 volunteer dentists and dental assistants, we provide urgent care at no cost—connecting patients with professionals who generously donate their time, skills, and resources. Our programs, including the Mobile Dental Unit and Charity Dental Voucher Program, ensure that patients receive the treatment they need, from pain relief to preventative services.
To date, DWC has provided more than $12 million in charitable dental care to over 29,000 individuals. Our work has been recognized by respected organizations, including the Texas Dental Association and the American Dental Association, as well as local leaders and community partners.

Smile voucher program
The SMILE Voucher Program helps eligible children and adults in the Rio Grande Valley access essential dental care when cost is a barrier. Through a network of volunteer dentists, Dentists Who Care provides support for exams, X-rays, and urgent treatments at little to no cost for those who qualify. If you are uninsured, low-income, and in need of dental care, this program may be able to help.
Annual Charity CE Dental Conference
For over 27 years, Dentists Who Care has hosted its Annual Charity Continuing Education (CE) Dental Conference—an event that combines professional growth with community impact. All proceeds directly support our mission to expand urgent dental care access in the Rio Grande Valley.
This conference offers dental professionals the opportunity to enhance their skills, earn continuing education credits, and connect with peers—while making a tangible difference for those in need.
To date, the event has raised more than $2.7 million to fund charitable dental services across the region.

Board of Directors
Saam Zarrabi, D.D.S.
President

Miguel Castillo III, D.D.S.
Vice President

Gary Schwarz, D.D.S., M.S.D.
Secretary

Adam Lalonde, D.D.S.
Treasurer/Past President

Mahesh Gondi D.D.S
Board Member

Emilio Santos Jr.
Board Member

Dr. Armando Salazar III
Board Member

Team Members
Norma Guevera
Executive Director

Maria Hernandez
Program Coordinator

Our Story in Numbers
Participating Dentists
200+
In Charitable Dental Services Provided
$12M
Individuals served
29K+
smiles created
5M+
2025 Sponsors
We believe every client is a valuable long-term partner.






2025 Grant Providers
We believe every client is a valuable long-term partner.



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CONTACT
Office Phone: (956) 318-3383
Fax: (956)-467-4776
1418 Beech Ave., Suite 124
McAllen, TX 78501
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