Mission of Mercy offers free dental care at the Bismarck Event Center

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – Regular visits to the dentist’s office are key to maintaining good dental health.

However, sometimes lack of money or insurance can push these appointments into the background.

Jennifer Babb said she has had a broken tooth for almost four months, but thanks to the free dental care event Mission of Mercy is hosting at the Bismarck Event Center, she was finally able to get it fixed.

“I’m shocked that this is going the way it is. When I was outside I thought it was Black Friday shopping, waiting in line for so long, but when I walk in here everything looks like everything is going smoothly. It looks like they’re getting people through, doing their jobs and getting them out the door,” Babb said.

All procedures performed are free, including cleanings, root canals, oral surgeries and prosthetics. Nearly 500 dentists, dental hygienists and other volunteers will work throughout the weekend to provide dental care to hundreds of people.

“The cost of healthcare is definitely not low, so hosting an event like this can be life-changing for people. So I think the passion comes from giving people another option to get treatment that they otherwise can’t afford for whatever reason,” said Kami Dornfeld, a Williston general dentist.

Because of the cost of the event – about $150,000 – and the need for so many volunteers, it is held every two to three years.

Further information about the event can be found here.

The event continues until Saturday. Patients are treated on a first come, first served basis.

Recent Posts