Low Income Dental Financial Help

Financial help for dental care is available for low-income people. Some programs range from requiring participation in oral hygiene classes to providing proof of financial need. Others require proof of participation in Medicaid, as well as photo I.D. Some programs are aimed at very specific populations. Applicants need to be prepared to provide ample written proof of their financial situation in order to receive help.

Geography

In the metro area of Denver, Colorado, for example, several programs exist to help those in need of financial assistance for dental care. These programs offer dental assistance to the needy, children, senior citizens, HIV-positive patients, victims of domestic violence, the homeless and those who are working but unable to afford medical or dental insurance. See link in Resources.

Significance

Dental care can be expensive, no matter the economic climate. If people are in need of emergency dental care during tough economic times, the need throughout the population can increase dramatically.

Types

The programs can offer assistance with routine dental care procedures, such as exams, cleanings, sealants, preventive care and x-rays. Tooth bleaching can also be covered. The assistance can cover emergency surgeries, such as root canals, as well.

Features

One notable feature is that “emergency services” are charged at a higher rate–$90 to $105 dollars per visit. Routine dental care is either free or charged at a much lower rate.

Potential

Given the large number of populations targeted for dental financial assistance, programs of this sort can reach a large number of residents in a large urban area. With this kind of assistance available, those needing either routine or emergency dental care need only to look at the different agencies to receive help.