Dental Grants in Wisconsin

Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Wisconsin Seniors: Complete 2026 Guide

Last updated: January 22, 2026

If You Need Emergency Help

Dental emergency right now?

Call these numbers immediately:

• Marquette University School of Dentistry: (414) 288-6790 (Milwaukee – emergency walk-in service available)
• ForwardHealth Member Service: (800) 362-3002 (for Medicaid/BadgerCare Plus members)
• Wisconsin Dental Association: (414) 276-4520 (referrals and emergency resources)
• For severe symptoms (facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain): Go to your nearest hospital emergency room

Key Takeaways

Bottom Line:Wisconsin remains a strong state for senior dental access, especially with the January 1, 2026 expansion allowing Dental Therapists to bill Medicaid directly—a move designed to reduce wait times in rural areas. Success depends on utilizing these new provider networks and tracking local clinic dates.

What You Need to Know Right Now:

• Expanded Workforce: As of January 1, 2026 , Dental Therapists can now separately enroll in Wisconsin Medicaid. This new provider category increases the number of professionals available to perform restorative care for seniors on BadgerCare Plus.
• Income Matters: The 2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) is $15,960 for individuals (up from $15,650 in 2025). BadgerCare Plus and SeniorCare eligibility thresholds have adjusted accordingly.
• Grant Support: The impact of the DHS safety net grants continues, with rural health receiving a major $203 million federal boost in late 2025 to transform health systems, indirectly supporting dental integration in rural clinics.
• 2026 Event Alert: While the comprehensive WDA Mission of Mercy is scheduled for 2027 , a “Day of Mercy” free clinic is confirmed for April 24, 2026 , at the Catholic Multicultural Center in Madison (partnered with Mercy Dental Group).

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Understanding Wisconsin’s Dental Care Advantages

The Healthcare Landscape for Seniors

Wisconsin stands out among states for dental access, particularly for low-income seniors. The state has developed a comprehensive approach through its Wisconsin Roadmap to Improving Oral Health 2020-2025, recognizing that access to oral health care is a critical issue requiring systematic solutions.

Wisconsin’s BadgerCare Plus Advantage

Unlike many states with limited Medicaid dental coverage, Wisconsin BadgerCare Plus provides extensive dental services for both adults and children:

What BadgerCare Plus Covers:

• Preventive care: cleanings, fluoride, sealants, exams
• Restorative services: fillings, crowns, bridges
• Emergency care: extractions, pain management
• Important: Does not cover orthodontia; some procedures require prior approval

Regional Variations:

• In Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Washington, and Waukesha counties, dental coverage is managed through HMOs
• In all other counties, dental services are covered directly by the state

Wisconsin’s Unique Funding Approach

Wisconsin requires by statute that at least nine nonprofit dental clinics be funded each fiscal year, with specific allocations including:

• $232,000 to rural health dental clinic in Ladysmith
• $400,000 to Family Health Center of Marshfield for Chippewa Falls area
• $700,000 for school-based preventive dental services
• Over $1.7 million annually to 14 safety net dental clinics

Health Connections: Why Dental Care Matters for Seniors

Poor oral health significantly impacts seniors’ overall health:

• Heart Disease: Gum disease bacteria contribute to cardiovascular problems
• Diabetes Complications: Gum disease makes blood sugar control difficult
• Pneumonia: Bacteria from infected teeth can be aspirated into lungs
• Malnutrition: Tooth loss leads to difficulty eating nutritious foods

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Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs

1. Marquette University School of Dentistry

Why Consider Marquette:

• Fees approximately 50% less than private dental offices
• State-of-the-art facility serving as Wisconsin’s only dental school
• Accepts Wisconsin Medicaid (ForwardHealth) and multiple insurance plans

Services Available:

• Comprehensive dental care including cleanings, fillings, extractions
• Preventive care and fluoride treatments
• Emergency dental services
• Pediatric dentistry (separate clinic for children under 13)

Cost Structure:

• Not a free clinic – charges apply for all services
• Fees about 50% below private practice rates
• Payment Required: Full payment due at each appointment
• Accepted: Cash, checks, debit cards, major credit cards, Apple Pay
• Cannot bill: Medicare, CareCredit, or most private insurance (but will help with claim submission)

Important Requirements:

• Must commit to receiving all dental services at the School of Dentistry
• Appointments are 3 hours long at 9:00 AM or 1:00 PM
• Initial screening examination required before treatment planning

Contact Information:

• Adults: (414) 288-6790
• Children under 13: (414) 288-7273
• Address: 1801 West Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233
• Emergency walk-in: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM

2. Wisconsin Department of Health Services Grant-Funded Clinics

State Investment:

• 14 nonprofit dental clinics received $5.1 million in grants for 2024-2026
• Individual grants range from $59,000 to $150,000 per clinic over three years
• Clinics serve significant numbers of low-income, uninsured, and underinsured Wisconsin residents

Services Provided:

• Basic dental care including cleanings, fillings, extractions
• Emergency dental services
• Preventive care programs
• Many accept Medicaid and offer sliding fee scales

Locations: Contact Wisconsin Department of Health Services for current clinic locations and availability

Training Component: Clinics also serve as work sites for Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Youth Apprenticeship program

3. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program

How It Works:

• Directed to people unable to afford dental care due to limited income linked to permanent disability, chronic illness, or advanced age (65+)
• Volunteer dentists provide comprehensive care through coordinated matching

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age 65 or older, OR permanent disability, OR chronic illness
• Cannot afford dental treatment
• Limited income directly related to qualifying condition

Application Process:

• Contact program administrators for current application procedures
• Medical documentation may be required
• Wait times vary by location and volunteer availability

4. WDA Foundation Grant Programs

Annual Funding:

• WDA Foundation awarded $50,892 in grants to 10 nonprofit oral care programs in 2024
• Since 2000, the WDA Foundation has awarded over $1.1 million in grants

Recipient Organizations Include:

• Affordable Dental Care, Inc.
• Various community health centers
• Rural clinic programs
• Senior-focused dental programs

Application Timeline: Applications accepted starting July 1 for the following calendar year

5. Wisconsin Mission of Mercy & 2026 Alternatives

Major Free Dental Event Status: The comprehensive Wisconsin Dental Association (WDA) Mission of Mercy operates on a biennial cycle.

• Next Major Event: 2027 (Planning Stages)
• 2026 Status: No comprehensive Mission of Mercy is scheduled for this year.
• 2026 Alternative: See “Day of Mercy” details below.

2025 Event Recap (11th Mission of Mercy):

• When: Held July 25–26, 2025, in Weston/Schofield, WI.
• Impact: 852 patient visits were completed over two days.
• Value: Over $885,000 in dental care was donated (surpassing the $250,000 raised to cover event costs).

Confirmed 2026 Event: “Day of Mercy” While the massive WDA event is off for 2026, a significant regional alternative has been confirmed.

• Date: Friday, April 24, 2026
• Location: Catholic Multicultural Center (CMC), Madison, WI
• Provider: Mercy Dental Group & CMC Partners
• Details: A free charitable dental day for vulnerable populations (including seniors and low-income families). Services typically include cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
• Contact: Call CMC at (608) 661-3512 for registration protocols.

Standard Mission of Mercy Format (For 2027 Return):

• Free Care: Available for children and adults with limited financial resources.
• Capacity: Historically ~450 patient visits per day.
• Access: First-come, first-served. Doors typically open at 5:30 AM.
• Barriers Removed: No photo ID, Social Security number, or insurance required.

6. Veterans Affairs (VA) Dental Benefits

Eligibility Classes for Wisconsin Veterans:

Wisconsin State Veterans Benefits:

• Dental care grants up to $800 in 12 months, extended care up to $4,000 in 24 months
• Vision care grants up to $400 in 12 months
• Hearing care grants up to $200 in 12 months, hearing aids up to $1,875 each in 24 months

VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP):

• Available to Veterans enrolled in VA health care
• Discounted dental insurance through Delta Dental or MetLife
• Three plan options with varying coverage levels

Contact:

• VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
• Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs: Contact for state grant programs

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BadgerCare Plus Dental Coverage: Maximizing Your Benefits

Understanding BadgerCare Plus & Medicaid Eligibility

2026 Income Guidelines:

• Seniors (65+) & Blind/Disabled:
  • Single Person: Monthly income limit is $1,077.78 (Asset limit: $2,000)
  • Married Couple: Monthly income limit is $1,623.05 (Asset limit: $3,000)
  • Note: This falls under Wisconsin’s EBD Medicaid rules.
• Adults (19–64):
  • Single Person: $15,960 annual income (approx. $1,330/month – 100% FPL)
  • Family of Two: $21,640 annual income (approx. $1,803/month)
  • Note: This falls under standard BadgerCare Plus rules.

Application:

• ACCESS Website (access.wi.gov): The fastest way to apply for both BadgerCare Plus and EBD Medicaid.
• Phone: Call your local income maintenance agency or Member Services.

Regional Coverage Differences

Milwaukee Metro Area (Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Washington, Waukesha counties):

• Dental coverage managed through HMOs or SSI HMOs
• Must select participating HMO providers
• Transportation assistance available through MTM: call (866) 907-1493

All Other Wisconsin Counties:

• Dental services covered directly by the state
• Can see any dentist accepting ForwardHealth card

Services Covered

Finding Providers

ForwardHealth Provider Search:

• Online provider directory
• Call ForwardHealth Member Service: (800) 362-3002
• Dental Ombudsman: Donna.Gresens@wisconsin.gov or (800) 947-9627, option 4

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Medicare and Insurance Options for Wisconsin Seniors

Traditional Medicare (Parts A & B)

Reality Check: Medicare does not cover routine dental care for adults. Limited exceptions:

• Hospital-based procedures requiring medical admission
• Medicare Part A may cover facility costs, but NOT the dental work itself

Medicare Advantage Plans & Stand-Alone Dental

2026 Wisconsin Options:

• Stand-Alone Dental Premiums: Prices now typically range from $17 – $62 monthly (up from previous years).
  • Note: Basic plans start around $17/mo (eg, Aetna Direct), while comprehensive senior plans (eg, Delta Dental, Humana) generally run $35–$60+.
• Annual Benefit Caps: Limits remain steady at $1,000 – $3,000 per year.
  • Important: Many standard Medicare Advantage “embedded” dental benefits cap out at just $1,000 , which covers little beyond basic exams and one minor procedure.
• 2026 Market Disruption: UCare is terminating its Medicare Advantage coverage in 2026. If you live in Western Wisconsin and previously had UCare, you must choose a new plan to maintain dental benefits.
• Warning: Most Medicare Advantage dental coverage still provides limited value for major work. While preventive care (cleanings) is often covered 100%, major restoration (crowns, dentures) typically requires a 50% copay and often hits the annual maximum immediately.

Marketplace Dental Plans

2026 Wisconsin Update: Seven insurers offer stand-alone dental coverage through Wisconsin’s health insurance marketplace in 2026. While slightly fewer than last year, this still provides robust choice compared to many states, with Delta Dental of Wisconsin remaining the dominant carrier alongside major national options like Humana and Anthem.

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Income Eligibility Quick Reference (2026)

Federal Poverty Level Guidelines

Source: US Department of Health and Human Services 2026 Poverty Guidelines (Effective Jan 13, 2026)

Wisconsin-Specific Income Considerations

BadgerCare Plus Eligibility: Use the ACCESS website to determine specific eligibility

Low-Income Definition: Estimated 10.8% of Wisconsin population is considered impoverished

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Regional Programs by Wisconsin Area

Milwaukee Area

Marquette University School of Dentistry (Primary Option)

• State-of-the-art facility
• 50% cost reduction compared to private practice
• Accepts Medicaid and multiple insurance plans

BadgerCare Plus HMO Networks

• Chorus Community Health Plans
• MHS Health Wisconsin
• Molina Healthcare
• UnitedHealthcare Community Plan

Madison Area

State-Funded Clinics

• Access through Wisconsin Department of Health Services grant programs
• BadgerCare Plus coverage through direct state administration

Northern Wisconsin

Specialized Rural Programs:

• Ladysmith rural health dental clinic: $232,000 annual funding for developmentally disabled, elderly, and low-income patients in Rusk, Price, Taylor, Sawyer, and Chippewa counties

Central Wisconsin

Family Health Center of Marshfield

• Chippewa Falls location: $400,000 annual funding
• Serves Chippewa, Dunn, Barron, Taylor, Clark, and Eau Claire counties
• Provides dental services to developmentally disabled, elderly, and low-income patients

Marshfield Clinics Financial Assistance

• Financial assistance program for low-income patients with dental costs not covered by insurance
• Applies to Marshfield Clinic dental centers
• Also covers ForwardHealth (Medicaid/BadgerCare Plus) services

Statewide Resources

Wisconsin Oral Health Program

• Comprehensive clinic listings by county
• Interactive map showing federally qualified health centers, free clinics, rural health centers, tribal health centers

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Special Populations and Inclusive Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Considerations:

• Most programs do not specifically address LGBTQ+ needs
• Marquette University and academic centers generally provide inclusive care
• Milwaukee area has more LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare resources

Resources:

• Contact local LGBTQ+ community centers for provider recommendations
• Academic medical centers typically have diversity and inclusion policies

Veteran Seniors

Comprehensive Benefits Available:

• VA dental coverage for qualifying veterans
• VADIP insurance with multiple coverage options
• Wisconsin state veteran grants for dental care

Wisconsin VA Medical Centers:

• Milwaukee VA Medical Center
• Madison VA Medical Center
• Tomah VA Medical Center

State Benefits:

• Dental care grants up to $800 annually, $4,000 for extended care over 24 months
• Contact Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs for application procedures

Disabled Seniors

BadgerCare Plus Advantages:

• Comprehensive dental coverage under Wisconsin’s expanded Medicaid
• Priority access through DDS program
• Transportation assistance available: MTM at (866) 907-1493

Special Programs:

• Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) includes dental care
• Marquette University accommodates special needs patients

Rural Seniors with Limited Access

Transportation Solutions:

• MTM provides non-emergency medical transportation for Medicaid members
• Must call 48 hours in advance: (866) 907-1493
• Emergency appointments may have less advance notice

Rural-Specific Resources:

• Ladysmith and Chippewa Falls clinics specifically funded for rural populations
• Wisconsin Oral Health Program maintains county-by-county clinic listings

Tribal-Specific Resources

Available Services:

• Tribal health centers included in Wisconsin Oral Health Program directory
• Indian Health Service facilities may provide dental care
• BadgerCare Plus coverage extends to tribal members meeting eligibility requirements

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Decision Tree: Which Program Should You Try First?

Start Here: Do you have a dental emergency?

• YES → Marquette emergency walk-in (414) 288-6790 or hospital ER for severe symptoms
• NO → Continue to insurance assessment

Do you have BadgerCare Plus (Medicaid)?

• YES → Use ForwardHealth provider directory to find dentist
• Milwaukee metro area: Contact your HMO for provider list
• Other counties: Any dentist accepting ForwardHealth
• NO → Continue to veteran status

Are you a veteran?

• YES → Check VA eligibility first: 1-800-827-1000, plus Wisconsin state veteran grants
• NO → Continue to income assessment

What is your household income level?

• Qualify for BadgerCare Plus → Apply at ACCESS website
• Above BadgerCare limits but low income → Marquette University School of Dentistry
• Moderate income → Private practice with insurance or payment plans

Priority Order for Most Wisconsin Seniors:

1. BadgerCare Plus eligible: Use comprehensive Medicaid dental coverage
2. Veterans: VA benefits + Wisconsin state grants
3. Low income: Marquette University School of Dentistry
4. Wait for major events: Mission of Mercy (next in 2027)
5. Rural residents: Ladysmith or Chippewa Falls specialized clinics if in service area

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Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Before You Apply – Gather These Documents

Required for Most Programs:

Typical Application Timelines

BadgerCare Plus:

1. Online application: ACCESS website – fastest method
2. Phone application: (800) 362-3002
3. Processing time: Varies, but online applications typically faster

Marquette University School of Dentistry:

1. Initial contact: Call (414) 288-6790 for adults, (414) 288-7273 for children
2. Screening consultation: Required before treatment
3. Treatment planning: Based on examination findings

Wisconsin State Veteran Grants:

1. Contact: Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs
2. Documentation: Must prove veteran status and financial need
3. Annual limits: $800 dental, $4,000 extended care over 24 months

Application Success Tips

1. Start with BadgerCare Plus: If eligible, provides comprehensive coverage
2. Apply online when possible: Faster processing than paper applications
3. Keep documentation current: Income verification expires after specific periods
4. Plan for Milwaukee travel: Marquette is state’s primary dental school
5. Consider rural clinics: If in northern Wisconsin, check Ladysmith or Chippewa Falls eligibility

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Warning Signs and Red Flags

Dental Emergency Symptoms – Seek Immediate Help

• Facial swelling affecting breathing or swallowing
• Fever with dental pain (sign of serious infection)
• Severe bleeding that won’t stop
• Trauma affecting multiple teeth

Avoid These Dental Scams

• Door-to-door dental services
• “Free” dental work with no income verification
• Pressure to sign up immediately
• Requests for Social Security numbers before verification
• “Mobile dental units” in parking lots without proper credentials

Legitimate Program Characteristics

• Income verification required for most free/reduced cost programs
• Licensed facilities and dentists
• Clear information about costs and coverage
• No upfront fees for applications
• Established physical addresses and verified phone numbers

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Cost Reality: What Seniors Actually Pay

Wisconsin Dental Cost Savings

Marquette University School of Dentistry: Approximately 50% below private practice fees

BadgerCare Plus: Comprehensive coverage with minimal or no cost-sharing for covered services

Payment Options Available

• BadgerCare Plus: Comprehensive Medicaid coverage for eligible individuals
• Sliding scale programs: Available at many grant-funded clinics
• Marquette payment: Full payment required at time of service
• CareCredit: Available at some locations (Marquette cannot process)
• HSA/FSA: Pre-tax dollars can cover dental expenses

Patient Success Stories

“BadgerCare Plus has been a lifesaver. I can get my cleanings, fillings, and even crowns without worrying about the cost. The coverage is better than what I had when I was working.” – Robert K., Madison

“The students at Marquette were so thorough. Even though it took longer, I felt like I received excellent care at half the price of what my neighbor paid at a private office.” – Margaret S., Milwaukee

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Wisconsin Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: Yes! Wisconsin BadgerCare Plus provides extensive dental services for adults and children – much more comprehensive than most states.

Q: How long are waiting lists for free dental care? A: Varies by program: Marquette (call for availability), grant-funded clinics (varies by location), Mission of Mercy (next event in 2027).

Q: What income qualifies for BadgerCare Plus? A: Income limits vary by household size and circumstances. Use the ACCESS website to check eligibility for current guidelines.

Q: Can veterans get free dental care in Wisconsin? A: Some can. Veterans with qualifying service-connected conditions may receive free VA dental care, plus Wisconsin offers state grants up to $800 annually for dental care.

Q: What should I do for a dental emergency if I have no money? A: Go to a hospital emergency room for severe symptoms. For urgent dental care, call Marquette emergency line (414) 288-6790 for walk-in service.

Q: When is the next Mission of Mercy event? A: The comprehensive Wisconsin Mission of Mercy is a biennial event and is currently in planning for 2027 . However, a regional “Day of Mercy” free dental clinic has been confirmed for April 24, 2026 , in Madison (at the Catholic Multicultural Center). While smaller than the comprehensive event, it provides similar free care for those in need.

Q: Does insurance affect my eligibility for free programs? A: BadgerCare Plus members have comprehensive dental coverage. Those without insurance may qualify for grant-funded programs or reduced-cost care at Marquette.

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Additional Resources and Verified Contacts

State Resources

Wisconsin Department of Health Services

• Oral Health Program: dhs.wisconsin.gov/oral-health
• ForwardHealth Member Service: (800) 362-3002
• Dental Ombudsman: Donna.Gresens@wisconsin.gov or (800) 947-9627, option 4

ACCESS Wisconsin

• Website: access.wisconsin.gov
• Services: Apply for BadgerCare Plus and other benefits

National Resources

Dental Lifeline Network

• Website: dentallifeline.org
• Services: Donated Dental Services matching program

211 Wisconsin

• Phone: 2-1-1 or (877) 947-2211
• Services: Information on local assistance programs, transportation, emergency aid

Veterans Resources

VA Benefits Hotline

• Phone: 1-800-827-1000
• Website: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care

Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs

• Services: State veteran grants and assistance programs
• Contact through county or tribal veterans service officers

Emergency Resources

Poison Control (medication interactions)

• Phone: 1-800-222-1222
• Available: 24/7

Veterans Crisis Line

• Phone: 988, Press 1
• Available: 24/7

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Action Plan for Wisconsin Seniors

Step 1: Assess Your Situation

• Emergency? Go to ER for severe symptoms, call Marquette for urgent dental care
• Current insurance? Check if you have BadgerCare Plus or other coverage
• Veteran? Call VA benefits hotline: 1-800-827-1000
• Routine care? Multiple excellent options available

Step 2: Gather Documentation

• Photo ID and proof of income/residency
• List of current medications
• Insurance cards (Medicare, BadgerCare Plus, VA cards)

Step 3: Apply in Strategic Order

If you might qualify for BadgerCare Plus:

1. Apply online at ACCESS website
2. Use comprehensive dental coverage once approved
3. Find providers through ForwardHealth directory

If you’re a veteran:

1. VA dental benefits (1-800-827-1000)
2. Wisconsin state veteran grants (up to $800 annually)
3. VADIP insurance for additional coverage

If you’re above Medicaid limits:

1. Marquette University School of Dentistry (50% cost savings)
2. Grant-funded community clinics
3. Private practice with payment plans

Step 4: Follow Up and Plan B

• Keep copies of all applications
• Have transportation plans for Milwaukee if using Marquette
• Consider multiple programs – some can be used together
• Plan ahead for Mission of Mercy 2027

Step 5: Maintain Oral Health While Waiting

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
• Avoid hard foods that could cause further damage
• Rinse with warm salt water for minor infections
• See a doctor if you develop fever or facial swelling

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About This Guide

Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors

This guide has been carefully researched using publicly available government resources and official program websites. We systematically review federal and state program information to create comprehensive, accurate guides for older Americans seeking dental care assistance.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, VA, CMS), Wisconsin state departments (DHS, DVA), academic institutions (Marquette University), official program documentation, and verified nonprofit organization resources.

Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough online verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status, verifying contact information, and confirming eligibility requirements and application processes.

Information Currency:

• Last Updated: January 2026
• Sources Verified: January 2026
• Next Review: May 2026

Important Note: Government programs can change without advance notice. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with program administrators before applying.

Found an Error? If you discover outdated information or additional programs that should be included, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. Dental program details, eligibility requirements, income limits, and contact information can change frequently. Always verify current information directly with the relevant organization before making decisions about your dental care. BadgerCare Plus benefits and program availability are subject to change based on federal and state legislation and funding availability. Mission of Mercy event dates and locations may change. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying.

This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available dental assistance programs.