Dental care can be expensive.
In fact, many people put off dental treatment due to high costs.
It’s important to note that the availability of these services will depend on where you live.
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While some options are open to everyone, others depend on your income level or eligibility for government programs.
This article outlines a few possible options for lower-cost or free dental work.
Dental Colleges and Hygiene Schools
Dental schools are a popular option for many people.
Student dentists perform work at a reduced cost and sometimes offer care for free.
This option is usually open to everyone, regardless of income.
Dental students work under the guidance of their professors, who oversee procedures to confirm they are performed properly.
This is because every step is monitored and approved by the professor before moving forward.
There are potential downsides to being treated at a dental college.
Most dental schools are located in major cities.
If you live far from a dental school, the travel time may be prohibitive.
Dental hygieneschools are also a source of low-cost preventive dental care, such as cleanings.
Like dental schools, treatment is provided by trainees under instructor supervision.
If you qualify for any of these programs, ask about which dental options may be available to you.
Your costs will depend on your income level so you will pay what they believe you might afford.
you’re free to search for a nearby CHC on the HRSA.gov site.
These are typically offered through a third-party group.
Most discount passes are inexpensive (as low as $20).
Some restrictions may apply with discount passes.
These trials are free, but in return, you’re assisting in the research process.
Programs like Medicare and Medicaid may also provide dental benefits if you’re eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
One place to start is by searching for a nearby dental college.
A dental hygiene school is another source of low-cost preventive dental care.
Take a look at theAmerican Dental Hygienists Associationsite for programs near you.
There are a number of federally-funded community health departments in the U.S. that offer low-cost or free dental care.
you could search for a nearby location using theHRSA.govwebsite.
The easiest way to find out if dental schools are accepting patients is to call them.
The best way to determine whether a clinic near you performs free implant surgery is to contact them.
Alternatives to tooth implants include dental bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures.
Though implants are the most expensive option to replace lost teeth, dentures and bridges also have costs attached.
You may be able to have these created for you at a dental school clinic.
Commission on Dental Accreditation.Search for dental programs.
QS World University.QS World University Rankings by subject 2022: Dentistry 2022.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.Medicare dental coverage.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.What is Medicare Part C?
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.Dental Care.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.Benefits.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.VA Dental Care.
Health Resources & Services Administration.Title V Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Block Grant.
Health Resources and Services Administration.Find a health center.
National Institutes of Health.
U.S. National Library of Medicine.Clinicaltrials.gov.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.Where can I find low-cost dental care?
