Dental care is not cheap, and yet it is something we all need at one time or another. Whether you keep up with regular teeth cleanings or not, there will likely come a time when you need some type of dental care, even if it is for a dental emergency. Many seniors need dental care, because it is something happens as we age, but they may not be able to afford it. It is important that they know about places that offer free dental care for seniors.
With dental care being so expensive around the country, it is important to know that there are places that will provide free dental care for seniors who cannot afford it. The programs are often offered by the federal and state government, but there are also programs offered by non-profit organizations. Together, all of these programs and places provide resources that seniors can turn to for dental care assistance.
Some people may feel they can simply go without dental care that is not an emergency situation, but that is not true. Those who care about their overall health and well being should still want to take good care of their teeth, because it can have an impact on how you feel about yourself, your level of confidence, how much you smile and show your teeth, and it can impact your heart health.
Programs Offering Free Dental Care for Seniors
Seniors needing help to pay for necessary dental care can reach out to the programs below for assistance. If they cannot help they may be able to provide you with a referral to a local program that can help with your situation. You are not limited to contacting only one program, so be sure to reach out to as many as you feel you need to in order to get the help you needed.
Medicaid – This program is provided by the federal government and is for those under the age of 65 who have a low income. Seniors who fit that criteria may get approved for the program, which will help pay for all types of healthcare services, including dental care. You can apply for the program online or at your local social services office. There is no limit to how long you can get help through this program as long as you continue to meet the requirements. To get more information and apply, click here.
Medicare – This program is similar to Medicaid, but there are a few differences. It is also provided by the federal government and it helps cover the costs of all types of medical bills. To qualify for the program you have to be 65 or over. There are no income requirements for this program, as it is open to all citizens and legal non-citizens in the country. There is no limit to how long you can get help through this program. To get more information and apply, click here.
Health Department – Counties around the country have their own health department that serves the people in that county with health information and services. They usually provide health care, including dental services, to those who live in the area and have a low income. Contact your local health department to see if they offer free dental services for seniors who have a low income. They should be able to help you directly or refer you to a local program that can.
211 – This is a number seniors can call to get referrals to programs in their area that will provide the type of assistance they need. The free referral service is provided by the United Way and is available to everyone in the country. Call the number to see what type of free dental care for seniors in your area they can refer you to. To get more info about the program, click here.
Jesus Clinic – These are clinics that are found in communities around the country. Check in your area to see if you have a Jesus Clinic. They provide free healthcare related services to those in need throughout the area where they are located.
Salvation Army – This faith-based charity helps people in a wide variety of ways, providing them with the services they need. Seniors who need free dental care can contact their local Salvation Army to see if they can help them get it. The charity may have a program in place to help with the service, and they are also a good place to get referrals to other programs that can help. There are many Salvation Army locations around the country. To get more information and find a location near you, click here.
Dental Schools – There are many dental schools around the country and they often provide free or low cost dental care to people in the community. The work is performed by students who are close to being done with school and their instructors oversee and help with the procedures. Going to a dental school is a great way to get help with free or low cost dental care.
Project Dentists Care – This non-profit organization provides free dental care for seniors and others how need the assistance. Since starting the foundation in 1993, they have given away $56 million in dental care services. Seniors may be able to get free dental care through this program. To get more information about the program, click here.
Additional Resources
There are likely other programs in your local area that can offer help with free dental care services for seniors. Many times the programs are offered by local dentist offices and charities that will host one-day or one-week free dental care clinics for the community. Call and ask around to see when the next one will be held. Additionally, some dentist offices will provide free services as a charity to help people in the community. You can call around to dental offices to see which ones provide that type of service and how to go about getting access to it.
