Donated Dental Services

Dental care can be expensive, and paying for treatment may be difficult if you have a limited income or a disability. Dental Lifeline Network's Donated Dental Services (DDS) program connects eligible people who cannot afford dental care with volunteer dentists who provide treatment at no cost. Services and application availability vary by state, and the program does not provide emergency or cosmetic dental care.

Donated Dental Services: Quick Facts

What is the Donated Dental Services Program?

A program that connects eligible people in need of dental care with free treatment.

Who can get help?

People who cannot afford dental care and meet at least one of these criteria: are age 65 or older, have a permanent disability or a medical condition, or live in an area accepting applications.

How do I apply?

You can apply online or download a paper application through Dental Lifeline Network.

What happens after I apply?

Dental Lifeline Network will review your application and may request proof of eligibility. Wait times vary and may exceed a year; when your turn comes, a state coordinator will contact you.

How does the Donated Dental Services program work?

The Donated Dental Services program connects eligible people with volunteer dentists who provide dental treatment at no cost. Here’s how it works:

1. Apply for help: Check whether the program is accepting applications in your area and submit an application.

2. Wait for a decision: Dental Lifeline Network will review your application and notify you about your eligibility.

3. Get matched with a dentist: If you qualify and a volunteer dentist is available, a program coordinator may connect you with a dentist.

4. Get dental care: The volunteer dentist will review your needs and determine whether they can provide treatment through the program.

Being eligible or placed on a waiting list does not guarantee that you'll receive treatment.

Before applying, keep these things in mind:

• One-time assistance: Confirm the program's rules about receiving services more than once.

• Waiting lists: You may wait several months or longer for care, depending on where you live and whether a volunteer dentist is available.

• Limited treatments: The program generally does not cover emergency or cosmetic dentistry, implants, sedation, or other complex treatments. Available services depend on your dental needs and what volunteer dentists can provide.

• Availability varies: Services may not be available in every county. Check your state's program page before applying. Who qualifies for the Donated Dental Services program?

You may qualify for the Donated Dental Services program if you cannot afford dental care and meet at least one of these criteria:

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You are over age 65.

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You have a permanent disability.

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You have a medical condition that requires dental care.

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You live in an area where the program is accepting applications.

How do I apply?

You can apply online or download a paper application through Dental Lifeline Network. Before applying, check whether the program is accepting applications in your county.

Steps to apply for the DDS program:

1. Visit the Dental Lifeline Network (DLN) website and click on "State Programs" in the top menu.

2. Click on your state to see if applications are open in your county.

3. If the county is accepting applications, start an online application.

4. Complete the application and make sure to answer all questions thoroughly, since you cannot save your progress and come back.

If your county is not accepting applications, check back in a few months. If you prefer to fill out a paper application, click on your state on the map and then "Click Here to Download an Application."

What happens after I apply?

After you apply, Dental Lifeline Network (DLN) will review your application and let you know whether you qualify. You may be asked to provide documents to confirm your eligibility. The documents you need will depend on your circumstances and the program's requirements. which could include:

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Dental insurance information (if you have it)

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Social Security Disability award (if under 65)

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Copy of your DD214 (if you are a veteran)

The wait for dental care can range from several months to more than a year, depending on where you live. When your turn comes, a state DLN coordinator will call you to review your application and make sure you still qualify. If you do, the coordinator will connect you with a dentist.

If the dentist agrees to see you, you can schedule an appointment. At your first visit, the dentist will decide whether they can accept you into the program and provide treatment.

How can I get help with my application?

If you need help with your DDS application, you can:

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Ask a trusted family member or friend for help.

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Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near you.https://benefitscheckup.org/article/how-to-find-a-benefits-enrollment-center-near-youSee if there’s one in your area.

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Call the NCOA HelpLine at 1-800-794-6559.

What if I am denied?

If you don't qualify for the Donated Dental Services program, or if the program isn't accepting applications in your area, you may still be able to find free or low-cost dental care.

Consider these options:

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211 Helpline: Call 211 or visit 211.org to connect with a local specialist who can help you find dental charities, free clinics, and other community resources.

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Community Health Centers: These centers offer medical and dental care, often at a lower cost based on your income and family size. Many serve people without health insurance. Use theFind a Health Center tool to find a center near you.

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Dental and dental hygiene school clinics: These clinics may offer dental care at reduced prices. Students provide treatment under the supervision of licensed dental professionals. Contact a dental school near you or use the American Dental Association's directory of accredited dental programs to find a school.