Annual MT West Dentist Free Dental Day a success

MT West Dentist once again held their annual free dental day in Plains, and people came out in droves to take advantage.

“I missed out on last years day, but I made sure I could make it this year,” said Patty Dalling of Hot Springs.

Dalling explained the due to being on a low income, insurance wasn’t a luxury that she could afford. She also said that due to having fallen through the cracks of the system, she was unable to get on Medicaid or Obamacare.

“This is so important for me. I have a lot of dental work that I have to get done, and it would cost an easy five thousand dollars,” she explained.

“I just can’t afford that, and it would take me years to be able to save for it,” she said.

This was one of the main reasons Dalling said that the free dental day was so important to her and her family.

“They are really going above and beyond to help the community. They’re just a God send to us,” she said.

Dalling had arrived at the dental building at 6:15am and said she was happy to have beaten the rush. She finally made it inside at around 10:00am and was full of excitement to see one of the many dental specialists that where seeing patients on the day.

Another couple had driven over from Superior in Mineral County. Sean and Melody Herman said that they wanted to get some work done and the free dental day was they best option.

While one was just in for a cleaning the other had to get a tooth extracted.

“We can save a lot of money and it’s really a nicer drive to Plains than it is to Missoula,” said Melody.

“The VA doesn’t cover cleanings, so I wanted to make sure I could get done what I needed to,” mentioned Sean.

Both were excited to take part in the day, with Melody saying she truly enjoyed the team at MT West Dentist.

Along with the over 60 registered patients that made the trek to the new building for the free dental day; Doctors Andrew and Elizabeth Ordelheide even invited some friends of their own to lend a hand.

Accompanied by Dr. Jaye Sedlack, the MT West Dentist team also had an Oral Surgeon from Missoula, other friends from Kalispell, Columbia Falls and Spokane.

With eight volunteer dentists on hand and a few hygienists as well, the MT West Dentist team also had a full staff of sixteen with the aid of thirty-five volunteers to help where needed.

“Atmosphere is key,” said Dr. Andrew Ordelheide of the office vibe on the day.

Ordelheide said that it’s not only important to have a fun yet relaxed atmosphere in the office during their event, but it also crosses over to every other day as well.

“So many people helped out with the event, it is really the best day of the year for us,” said Ordelheide.

“Its really humbling that so many people wanted to help. As medical professionals we have the ability to help so many people, and thats what we wanted to do,” explained Ordelheide.

Ordelheide also said that as far as long term goals go, they hope to continue to build their team at the local practice in Plains, so they can truly extend the spirit to other dental offices to put on a free dental day as well.

“We would love to see this kind of event all over the country, and as we continue to reach our goals here, I look forward to helping other dentist offices in the future,” said Ordelheide.

With another successful year under their belt, and plenty of smiles walking out the front door, Ordelheide simple said, ”We’re not just a business, we’re apart of this community.”