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Free Dental Grants For Seniors: How To Apply

Written By: William Rivers
Reviewed By: William Rivers
Published: October 13, 2022
Last updated: September 29, 2024
Dental Implant Grants For Seniors

Having a winning smile increases confidence, even in our golden years. But many older adults struggle with oral health issues, due to changes in their body and certain health conditions. Everyday wear and tear can also take a toll on one's teeth. Good thing there are free dental grants for seniors to help defray the cost of dental procedures. 

This post will explore some free dental grants for seniors and how to apply for each. 

Dental Implant Grants For Seniors

Cosmetic Dentistry Grants

Cosmetic dentistry grants are accessible to anyone, not just seniors, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements. Qualification requirements are simple. An applicant must:

  • Demonstrate that their mouth can handle the dental implant
  • Pass the free oral assessment conducted by a certified dentist
  • The residential address must be within 60-mile of a certified dentist
  • Must be living inside the United States
  • Has a good standing with the government

To apply to the CDG funding:

  1. Submit funding requests through their website.
  2. Agree to the free dental consultation by a certified dentist.
  3. Wait for the dentist to confirm eligibility.
  4. Accept the treatment plan provided by the dentist.
  5. Accept the grant and use it within one year. 

You can only apply for this grant once, and any awarded funds must be used within three months. When seeking financial assistance through this grant, it's important to note that you can only apply once, and any funds awarded must be utilized within three months. Applications are not only free but also remain eligible for one year, ensuring a streamlined process for individuals in need. If you require dental services, consider consulting with a Certified dentist in Austin to explore comprehensive and professional care options.

Healthier Smiles Grant Program

The Mars Wrigley Foundation gives grants to members of the American Dental Hygienists Association who helps underserved communities gain access to dental projects. Your dentist can submit an application for this grant in relation to your specific case. Talk to your dental hygienist for details. 

ADA Foundation

The American Dental Association runs a foundation that provides grants to dentists and dependents on a per need basis. For seniors, they have the ADA Foundation Senior American Access to Care grants which is given to low-income seniors aged 62 and above. 

To know more about the program, you can inquire from your local dentist or visit the ADA chapter near you. 

Government-Funded Grants

The best way to get free dental grants for seniors is by checking with your local health center. It’s possible your state already has an on-going grant such as the DentaQuest Community Response Fund for health center in Pennsylvania. The local health center can also tell you about other dental clinics with existing grants within your area. 

Keep in mind that federal dental grants are awarded to organizations that provide free or low-cost dental care.

Veteran Dental Care Grants

Veterans are eligible for dental grants as a thank you for their service. Check out the Dental Lifeline Network which offers free, comprehensive dental care. The ADA Foundation offers this grant for veteran seniors. 

Another program is the Smile, Veteran by AAID (American Academy Implant Dentisty) which also helps veteran seniors fund their dental implants. 

To apply to any of these grants, consult with your dental provider or visit their websites for details. 

Other Ways To Afford Dental Implants

Free Dental Grants For Seniors Alternatives

Apart from free dental grants for seniors, you can also afford the cost of dental implants through the following:

Medicaid

Some Medicaid plans offer dental coverage depending on your state. This can cover the part of the costs of the dental implant if it’s to address a serious health condition. Talk to your health care provider if you want to explore this option.

Dental Discount Plans

Dental Discount Plans, also called Dental Savings Plans, is an alternative to dental insurance where you pay a membership fee to get discounted dental services. Dental insurance providers typically offer these discount plans. You get a membership card that you show to partner dentists and receive discounted services. 

Aside from the annual membership fee, there are no monthly deductibles or annual maximum. Just remember that these are only discount plans. They only reduce the total bill and you still have to pay for the remaining cost of your dental treatment. 

Dental Loans

If you don’t qualify for free dental grants for seniors, you can consider taking out a dental loan. Most seniors fund their expensive dental implants by taking out a loan. This spreads the expensive cost across several months instead of paying for it upfront. However, make sure that you can pay it in time or risk facing huge interest fees. 

Don’t Let Cost Stop You From Getting A Dental Implant

While dental procedures are expensive, the costs should not stop you from getting one and enjoying healthy teeth and gums. The grants listed here as well as other ways to afford dental implants will surely help you find a solution to fit your budget.

For more useful articles to help seniors live the best of their lives, check out our blogs at Senior Strong

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William Rivers is an editor with a master’s degree in Human Services Counseling at Maine State University. He has more than 20 years of experience working in the senior healthcare industry.
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