For patients with serious oral health illnesses, a dental implant is a relatively new procedure. However, implants introduced 50 years ago have been a popular alternative to dental dentures and dental bridges for replacing damaged or missing teeth.
Despite this, the costs involved in a dental implant procedure remain high. Fortunately, there are organizations and healthcare projects that provide grants and affordable dental services to greater populations.
In this article, we’ll cover the different ways to apply for dental grant programs and the application guidelines for each.
Who Is Eligible To Receive Dental Grants
Providing everyone with access to dental care is extremely challenging. However, there are professionals and organizations whose primary mission and vision are to provide affordable dental treatments to underserved communities.
Each program may have different requirements, but basic eligibility criteria include the following:
- Applicant’s legal age is 18 years old and above
- Applicant is suffering from a serious disability
- Applicants have a low gross income
- Applicants truly require to undergo specific dental treatment procedures
Coverage Of Orthodontic Dental Grants
Most orthodontic and cosmetic dental grants provide coverage for the following procedures:
- Dental crown
- Veneers
- Mouth cleaning and hygiene
- Gum lift
- Teeth whitening
- Root canal filling
- Cavity extraction
- Enamel restoration
Types Of Dental Grants For Affordable Oral Care
If you do not have medical insurance covering dental care services, you may choose from several kinds of dental grants offered by the federal government and private organizations.
Government Grants
Depending on your state of residence and your Medicaid or Medicare eligibility, this grant program may pay for your dental implants. Check with your insurance provider before scheduling an appointment with your local dentist.
Dental Implant Grants For Seniors
Most grant programs for cosmetic and implant dentistry are open to low-income seniors who require dental implants. You can also ask questions at your local community health center regarding any senior dental grants.
Dental Care Grants For Veterans
The Dental Lifeline Network is one of the best resources for veterans seeking financial assistance for dental care services. The network offers no-cost comprehensive oral care through volunteer dentists.
Low-Income Adult Grants
Low-income individuals who require funding for oral care services may check out the following grant programs:
- Access To Care
- E. Bud Tarrson Dental School Student Community Leadership Award
- Samuel Harris Fund
Where To Apply For Dental Grant Services
The Federal Cosmetic Dentistry Grants Program (CDG) can help with orthodontic and dental care expenses. Here are some state-funded dental grants that can reduce the final amount of dental care procedures by hundreds of dollars.
Dental Preventive Clinical Support Program
State-funded dental implants are made available via the Dental Preventive Clinical Support Program. Sponsored by the IHS, Human Services, and the Department of Health, this initiative aims to provide financial assistance to low-income individuals who cannot afford essential dental procedures for improved oral health.
Medicaid
Medicaid offers assistance with oral health issues. It assists patients with the significant costs associated with particular dental treatments and procedures. Dental implants, however, require a multi-step process and are only partially reimbursed by Medicaid.
The ADA Foundation
The American Dental Association (ADA) seeks to improve people’s lives. It collaborates with non-profit organizations to provide funds for cosmetic dentistry services. Charity groups that provide dental treatment and outreach programs to underprivileged Americans aged 62 and older are awarded grants worth $120,000.
Healthier Smiles Grant Program
Individuals requiring financial assistance for dental implants may apply for the Healthier Smiles Grant program. Qualified applicants of this multi-state project may receive grants of $2,500 to $5,000 from The Wrigley Company Foundation.
The Academy Of General Dentistry
The Academy Of General Dentistry (AGD) is an organization of volunteer dentists and orthodontic specialists who aim to spread awareness about oral health and hygiene to local communities. They also provide financial assistance to low-income patients who require dental treatment and surgery.
DentaQuest Community Response Fund
The primary mission of this project is to improve the oral health of people residing in underprivileged areas. The DentaQuest Community Response Fund offers underserved citizens and communities dental implant government grants. Eligibility is determined based on a person’s needs for oral care services and the type of treatment needed.
The applicant’s gross annual income and the seriousness of their oral health condition determine the grant amount provided, and that’s how to apply for dental grant services like this.
For individuals with no insurance providers to help with dental care expenses, read this article by Gov Relations on available dental care for adults without insurance.
