Geriatric Dental Group

Geriatric Dental Group (GDG) is a long-standing non-profit charitable organization that commenced operations in 1974. Initially established as a federally funded pilot project in Portland, Oregon, its core mission has always been to deliver specialized dental services to the elderly and individuals with handicaps, particularly those in institutional settings or who are homebound. The Federal Way clinic, located at 728 S 320th St A, Federal Way, WA 98003, is one of their key locations. GDG focuses on providing comprehensive dental treatment at costs significantly lower than the area average, typically 30-50% less, and offers long-term, interest-free payment plans, along with accepting charitable contributions to further aid their patients. Their services cater specifically to patients aged 55 and older, or wheelchair-bound individuals of any age. This specialization includes a wide array of dental procedures: Diagnostic and Preventive Care: Regular check-ups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and oral cancer screenings are fundamental to their approach, aiming to prevent common age-related oral health issues like root caries, gum disease, and dry mouth. Restorative Treatments: They provide fillings, crowns, and bridges to restore tooth function and aesthetics. Prosthetics: GDG offers both fixed and removable prosthetics, including dentures and dental implants, for patients with missing teeth. Oral Surgery and Endodontics: Essential procedures like tooth extractions and root canal treatments (though root canals may be limited for mobile dentistry services) are also part of their offerings. Mobile Dentistry: A distinctive service, their field (mobile) dentistry teams provide care to non-ambulatory patients or those unable to visit an office setting, directly in care facilities and private homes. These teams also offer oral health maintenance training to caregivers. Accessibility: The clinics are designed to be wheelchair accessible, with features like street-level entrances and automatic doors, and several operatories can comfortably accommodate oversized wheelchairs or stretchers, eliminating the need for patient transfer. Beyond clinical treatment, Geriatric Dental Group is committed to public education on proper oral health care for seniors, extending this knowledge to patients, caregivers, and staff in institutional settings. They operate with a full-time executive director who reports to a board of volunteer directors, and their staff receives competitive salaries and benefits, ensuring a dedicated and skilled team. Patients travel from across the Pacific Northwest to access their services, a testament to the specialized and affordable care they provide.