Help for Low Income Families on Dentistry

Dental schools often provide free or low cost dental care.

Regular dental care is important for children and adults. In fact, the California Dental Association recommends seeing a dentist twice yearly for a routine dental exam and cleaning. Early detection of gum disease and tooth decay can prevent loss of teeth later in life. In addition, dentists sometimes discover serious medical conditions such as oral cancer during routine dental exams, which can be life saving. Low income families may have trouble affording dental care, however.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a health insurance program for those with low incomes. Eligibility criteria vary somewhat from state to state; in all states, however, children who meet the income guidelines and other criteria can get Medicaid, and in some states their parents can, too. Coverage also varies somewhat from state to state: Medicaid covers dental care for children in all states and for adults in some states but not in others. Apply for Medicaid at the agency that administers the program in your state. In Ohio, for example, the Department of Job and Family Services administers the program, while in Florida, the Department of Children and Families administers it. You'll need to provide proof of all family income when you apply.

Children's Health Insurance Program

The Children's Health Insurance Program provides health insurance for some children from families that make too much money to qualify for Medicaid but still need help paying for medical and dental care. Apply for the Children's Health Insurance Program at the same place you apply for Medicaid. You can also apply at many health departments. You'll need to provide proof of all family income when you apply.

Clinics With Sliding Scales

Many areas have dental clinics that operate on a sliding scale. They base their fees for dental care on patient incomes. Eligibility criteria and services offered vary from clinic to clinic. Contact the health department in the city in which you live or your local United Way to ask about such clinics in your area.

Dental Schools

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research website states that dental schools sometime provide free or low cost dental care, allowing students opportunities to practice their skills while providing affordable dental care to families in need. Students work under the supervision of experienced dentists. (See Resources for a list of dental schools; contact schools near you to find out if they offer free or reduced dental care.) Available services vary from school to school.

References

• Kelly Morris; Social Worker; Mansfield, Ohio
• California Dental Association: Preventive Care
• Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: Medicaid Dental Coverage
• National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Finding Low-Cost Dental Care; January 28, 2011

Resources

• American Dental Association: Dental Education Program Search