Detailed Introduction
Salt Lake Donated Dental Services (SLDDS) is a charitable organization based in Salt Lake City, Utah, dedicated to addressing the critical need for accessible dental care among underserved populations. Founded in 1990 by Dr. Ralph B Montgomery, SLDDS operates with the core belief that a healthy smile should not be limited by financial means. The organization aims to relieve dental pain and suffering while preserving oral health through preventative education and comprehensive treatment.
SLDDS runs two primary programs: the Donated Dental Program and the Discounted Dental Program. The Donated Dental Program provides free, comprehensive dental services to individuals at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level, particularly focusing on the homeless and extremely low-income individuals. The Discounted Dental Program offers services at a reduced rate for individuals at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, often referred to as the "working poor" who typically lack dental insurance. The Discounted Dental Program is self-sustaining and also helps to subsidize the Donated Dental Program, allowing more resources to directly benefit patients.
The services offered by SLDDS are comprehensive and comparable to those found in a private dental office. They include:
Emergency care: Addressing immediate pain and urgent dental issues.
Preventive care: Oral hygiene instructions, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to maintain oral health.
Restorative care: Fillings, crowns, bridges, and root canals to repair damaged teeth.
Oral Surgery: Extractions, including wisdom teeth.
Prosthetics: Dentures and partials to restore missing teeth and improve function.
Pediatric dentistry: Including a sedation program for younger patients.
SLDDS operates through a powerful network of volunteer dentists and dental laboratories who donate their time, expertise, and materials. This volunteer model allows the organization to provide high-quality care without the overhead of establishing and operating extensive clinical facilities. Patients receive care in volunteer dentists' private offices, ensuring continuity of care and maintaining patient dignity. The organization screens patients, coordinates appointments, and handles administrative tasks to make the process as seamless as possible for both patients and volunteers.
SLDDS is a state affiliate of Dental Lifeline Network (DLN), a national humanitarian organization that provides access to comprehensive dental treatment nationwide to people with disabilities, the elderly, or those who are medically fragile and have no other access to care. DLN's flagship program is also called Donated Dental Services (DDS), and SLDDS operates as a key part of this broader national effort.
Since its inception, SLDDS has been instrumental in providing a "dental home" for tens of thousands of individuals in Utah. The organization's commitment extends beyond just treating immediate dental problems; it aims to restore patients to good oral health, enabling them to reach a sustainable maintenance level and ultimately improving their overall health, well-being, and quality of life. Testimonials from patients often highlight the profound impact of SLDDS, allowing them to eat without pain, smile confidently, and even rejoin the workforce.
