How to Get Free or Low Cost Dental Care

Many people find that taking care of teeth properly can be expensive. It's even more expensive to fix the problems that result from improper care. However, many communities offer free and low cost dental care.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Telephone
• Dental Insurance card (if applicable)

1. If you have dental insurance, go over your policy and determine what care is available for free. Many plans offer a certain number of cleanings or x-rays per year. Make sure to take advantage of all that is offered. Use dentists which participate with your insurance to get the largest amount of coverage. The plan may also have a cap on how much they will cover per year, so have your dentist come up with a plan of care and match what is being done to your budget.

2. If you do not have insurance, or need extensive work that is not covered by your insurance, contact your local Health Department and see if there is a public dental program in your community.

3. Check with nearby dental schools to see if you can schedule free or low cost visits with senior student dentists. The students are supervised, so you can be assured of the best care. They also have learned the most recent treatments for any conditions you may have.

Tips & Warnings

• Preventing the problem is cheaper than fixing it. Brush your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste containing fluoride. Floss and use a fluoridated mouth wash everyday.
• Use a straw when drinking sugary drinks, or drink water.
• Student dentists have to have their work checked by several people, so the treatment can take much longer than with a regular dentist.

Resources

• Links to US Health Departments by State
• List of US Dental Schools