Are you struggling with dental issues and looking for affordable care? Luckily, there are free dental care programs accessible to individuals who meet specific income criteria. These programs provide a range of services, especially if you are enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid. Explore the options below to determine your eligibility for dental work, and in particularly costly services like dental implants. In many cases, you can find the entirety of your costs covered by these programs at a nearby clinic.
Seniors looking to save money on essential dental care services can save hundreds or thousands of dollars in some cases. With a simple online search, you may find numerous free dental programs in your area. Seniors in need of expensive dental care may finally find some financial relief through the following options…
Dental Schools
Dental schools are a terrific option for seniors looking for affordable care. Clinics operated by dental schools are a great way for seniors to take advantage of reduced cost and sometimes even free dental procedures. In most cases, you’ll get as much as 50% off the typical cost of care.
While may have some reservations about inexperienced students working on your mouth, it’s important to note that licensed dentists are always around to supervise any procedure performed by a dental student. The supervising dentist is there every step of the way to ensure the work is done correctly. The real downside is that the work may take longer to perform.
Dental Lifeline Network
The Dental Lifeline Network is another option for seniors. The national nonprofit organization provides access to affordable dental care through a network of over 15,000 dentists and nearly 3,500 dental labs. The Dental Lifeline Network services both seniors and those on disability, helping thousands of people across the nation.
Veteran Affairs
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers affordable dental care for all military veterans. Within the VA’s network are over 200 dental clinics across the nation. Coverage depends on your current health and military service history. Coverage may include diagnostic, preventative, surgical, and restorative procedures on a one-time basis or recurring with complete coverage.
For those not eligible for free dental coverage, you may be able to find cheap dental insurance through the VA Dental Insurance Program as an alternative.
The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics
Despite the efforts of government and nonprofit organizations, many seniors still don’t have access to affordable healthcare. As such, the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics works to provide low-income seniors with free dental care.
The NAFC works with over 1,400 charity clinics and pharmacies across the nation. These companies can provide a variety of dental services at little to no cost to you. Since many of the clinics offer sliding scales, you only have to pay what you can afford – even if that’s nothing.
Health Resources and Services Administration
For seniors in need of assistance with dental care expenses, the Health Resources and Services Administration is an invaluable resource. The primary goal of the HRSA is to ensure accessible and affordable healthcare for individuals facing economic challenges and medical need. They achieve this objective through various programs and grants that help subsidize healthcare, including dental care.
With a wide array of over 90 programs and more than 3,000 grantees, the HRSA plays a significant role in providing affordable healthcare to nearly 29 million individuals. Reach out today to reach out to them to determine if you qualify for healthcare services in your area.
Groupon
Groupon is a popular online marketplace that offers deals and discounts on a wide range of products and services. If you are looking for affordable care that may not be covered by insurance, such as dental implants, Groupon can be an excellent resource. Depending on your locations, you may be able to save as much as 60% on new dental implants by purchasing a Groupon.
Preventative Care
Ultimately, prevention is the best way to save on dental care. Unfortunately, many people don’t have the dental education they need to deal with dental health issues.
Resources like Teeth Wisdom and the Oral Health Foundation offer free education for seniors when it comes to oral health. These websites provide information about common health concerns and answers to frequently asked questions. They provide tips for maintaining good oral hygiene and they can even help you find an affordable dental clinic near you.
