At one point or another everyone needs dental care. Whether you are someone who visits the dentist regularly or not, things happen and you will need to see a dentist at some point. However, dental care is costly and many people don’t have the funds to pay for the high bills that come along with seeing a dentist and getting treatment. Knowing how to get free or low cost dental care is crucial for those who have a low income.
The average cost for a routine dental visit in America, which includes an exam, cleaning and x-rays, is around $200. For a lot of people, this is not an affordable bill. Add to this that if any other dental work is needed, it can be thousands of dollars, depending on what treatment is necessary.
If you are alone in needing free or low cost dental care you are not alone. The cost of visiting the dentist has become so expensive that there are many people who struggle to pay for the office visits and treatments. The good news is there are options to help you pay for the visits and get the dental care you need. You just have to know where to look to find it.
Where to Find Free and Low Cost Dental Care
You will find free and low cost dental care provided by several different types of resources. It’s offered through some programs that are funded by the federal and state government, as well as by organizations that help people in need. Explore all the options to see which ones you would qualify for, so you can get the dental care financial assistance that you need.
Medicaid – This federally funded program will provide people with free dental care if they meet the qualifications. The program will pay for such things as dental care visits, x-rays, cleanings, routine care, and necessary treatments. To qualify for Medicaid, you have to have a low income and be a citizen or legal non-citizen. There is no limit to how long you can have Medicaid. As long as you continue to meet the requirements for the program you can continue to get help with dental care bills with it. The program is available around the country. You can apply online or in person at your social services department. To get more information about Medicaid, click here.
Health Departments – There are county health departments all across America. Most counties have a health department that receives state funding. Many of them will provide free or low cost dental care to those who live in the county and have a low income. Contact your local health department to see if they provide dental care services and if so, how you set up an appointment. If they don’t have a dental care division at that health department, they should be able to refer you to a local place that can provide you with services that are free or low cost.
Jesus Clinics – Many communities in the country have what are called Jesus Clinics. These are clinics where the services are all provided for free. They are done to help people in the community who may otherwise not be able to afford treatments. They may also help you pay for dental care if you go to a provider outside of their particular area. You can search to see if there is a Jesus Clinic in your area, and contact their main location. To get more information, click here.
Dental Schools – There are around 80 accredited dental schools around the country. These are usually good places to get dental care for free or a small fee. This is because the students need to get practice working on people and providing treatment. They will provide the dental care when people come into their student dental office. Don’t worry though, a dentist or professor will oversee their work, to ensure everything is properly done. They are great places to get the dental care that is needed without breaking the bank. To find a list of dental schools near you to contact, click here.
Donated Dental Services – This is a program offered through an organization where dental professionals donate their time. They will donate the time to provide people with the treatment that is necessary and that they cannot afford to pay for. To qualify for the program, you have to be over the age of 65, permanently disabled, and need medically necessary dental care. You can fill out the application online and wait for their review to see if you are approved. To get more information and apply, click here.
Project Dentists Care – This is another organization that provides necessary dental care to those who need it and cannot afford it. The dental professionals providing the care are volunteers, and people have donated money to help cover any costs. They will help with providing general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and emergency dental care. To get more information and apply for assistance, click here.
211 – You can call this number no matter where you live in the country and get referrals to helpful programs. Let them know you are in need of free or low cost dental care and they will provide you with referrals. The service is free to use. To get more information, click here.
Churches – There are many churches around the country. They are found in the smallest and largest of cities alike. They will usually help people with their financial needs. Contact the churches in your area to inquire about getting help with covering the cost of necessary dental care. They may cover it all or provide a partial assistance payment to help you.
Catholic Charities – With locations around the country, there is likely one in your area. This organization provides a variety of helpful programs for those who have a low income. Contact the ones in your area to inquire about getting help with covering the cost of dental care. To find a location near you, click here.
