Bridging the Dental Gap

Bridging the Dental Gap is a dedicated 501(c)(3) non-profit community dental clinic located at 1223 S 12th St #1, Bismarck, ND 58504. Established in 2004, its core mission is to enhance access to essential dental care for underserved populations, including those on Medicaid, uninsured individuals, the under-insured, and low-income members of the community. They serve individuals residing within a 50-mile radius of Bismarck or Mandan. The clinic offers a comprehensive range of dental services designed to address both preventative and restorative needs. These services include, but are not limited to, exams and X-rays, professional cleanings, fillings, extractions, root planing, sealants, fluoride treatments, root canals, crowns, and partial or full dentures. Eligibility for services is based on income and insurance status, with a sliding fee scale implemented to ensure affordability for qualifying individuals. For children under 18, a parent or guardian must accompany them. Bridging the Dental Gap is committed to promoting oral health beyond their clinic walls. They actively engage in community outreach, offering educational presentations to schools, community groups, and businesses about the importance of oral hygiene and accessible dental care. They also participate in community health fairs, providing oral health screenings, and offer job shadowing opportunities for students interested in dental careers. The clinic operates Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM (with some sources indicating slightly different Monday-Thursday hours of 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM). They operate on an appointment-only basis and do not accept walk-ins. Marie Mott serves as the Executive Director. The organization relies on community support and donations to continue its work, emphasizing that good oral hygiene is crucial for both physical health and self-esteem.