Teeth are part of overall health, yet dental care is one of the most common things people skip because of cost. Many health insurance plans cover little or no dental work, and Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental care. Still, there are many ways to get care at a reduced price or for free. This guide explains the main routes.
If you have severe pain or swelling
Facial swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing or breathing can signal a serious infection. Go to an emergency room or call your local emergency number. Otherwise, start with a community health center, which offers sliding-scale pricing.
Community health centers
Federally funded health centers offer care on a sliding scale based on income and household size, and many include dental clinics. They serve people regardless of ability to pay. Use the HRSA “Find a Health Center” tool to see what is near you, and call to ask about dental services, wait times and fees. See our guide to low-cost healthcare for more about these centers.
Dental schools and hygiene programs
Dental schools and dental hygiene programs run clinics where students provide care under the close supervision of licensed dentists, usually at lower prices. Appointments can be longer and wait lists are common, but the quality is carefully checked. Search for accredited dental schools in your state, or look at nearby community college hygiene programs for low-cost cleanings.
Medicaid and CHIP
Dental coverage for children is required under Medicaid and CHIP, so children in the program can generally get checkups, cleanings and treatment. For adults, dental benefits vary by state, from emergency-only care to fairly comprehensive coverage. Check your state Medicaid program to see what is included. Our Medicaid and CHIP guide explains how to apply.
Medicare and older adults
Original Medicare usually does not cover routine dental care such as cleanings, fillings or dentures. Some Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits, so compare plans during enrollment. Free Medicare counseling through your State Health Insurance Assistance Program can help you understand options. See help for older adults.
Charity and volunteer programs
- Dental Lifeline Network connects volunteer dentists with older adults, people with disabilities and people who are medically fragile who cannot afford care, through programs in many states.
- Free and charitable clinics may offer dental days or referrals. Call 211 to ask what is nearby.
- Charity dental events run by state dental associations and nonprofits occasionally offer free care for a day or weekend. Lines can be long, so arrive early.
Ways to save when you pay
- Ask for the cost upfront and for a written treatment plan, and ask which procedures are urgent.
- Ask about payment plans or cash discounts. Many offices offer both.
- Consider a dental savings plan. These are membership programs, not insurance, that give discounted rates at participating dentists for an annual fee. Compare the fee against what you expect to use.
- Get a second opinion for expensive work.
- Use prevention. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary drinks and keep up with cleanings. Preventive care costs far less than fixing problems later.
Check public benefits you may have missed
If dental care is out of reach, other costs may be adding pressure too. A benefits screening tool or a call to 211 can show you programs that free up money for care.