Dental Grants in Colorado
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Colorado Seniors: Complete 2025 Guide
Last Updated: August 2025 | Medical Review: Content verified against current Health First Colorado policies and federal poverty guidelines
If You Need Emergency Dental Help
If you’re having a dental emergency right now:
Emergency Resources – Get Care Today
1. University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine Emergency Services
- Address: 13065 E. 17th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045
- Phone: (303) 724-6900
- Emergency Line: (720) 848-0000 (ask for dental resident on call after hours)
- Services: Relief for dental emergencies such as pain, swelling, bleeding, or trauma
2. Hospital Emergency Rooms
- When to Go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
- What They Do: Emergency stabilization and pain management only – they cannot perform dental procedures
- Cost: Expensive, but required to provide emergency assessment
3. Colorado Mission of Mercy – Next Event
- 2025 Event: October 17-18, 2025, Loveland, CO
- Services: Free dental care on first-come, first-served basis
- No income requirements: Open to anyone needing dental care
- Website: comom.org
Emergency Documentation Checklist
- Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Health First Colorado card (if enrolled)
- Income verification for sliding fee programs
- Medical information (current medications, insurance cards)
Key Takeaways
Bottom Line: Colorado has excellent dental coverage options for seniors, including comprehensive Health First Colorado benefits with no annual limits and state-funded programs specifically for low-income seniors.
What You Need to Know Right Now:
- Health First Colorado: Comprehensive dental coverage for adults with no annual benefit limit as of July 1, 2023â¹
- Senior-Specific Program: Colorado Dental Health Care Program for Low-Income Seniors serves those age 60+ with income up to 250% Federal Poverty Level
- Annual Mission of Mercy: Free dental clinic serving 1,000+ patients annually, providing over $1 million in donated careâ²
- UW Dental School: Fees up to 50% less than local private practices with Senior & Special Care Clinicâ³
Reality Check: Colorado is one of the most senior-friendly states for dental care, with multiple comprehensive programs and significant recent improvements to Medicaid coverage.
Understanding Colorado’s Health First Colorado Dental Coverage
Comprehensive Adult Coverage – Major 2023 Improvement
Effective July 1, 2023, adult Health First Colorado members receive dental services with no annual limitâ⁴. Previously capped at $1,500 annually, the coverage is now unlimited.
Services Covered for Adults (21+):
- Preventive care: exams, cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants
- Restorative care: fillings, crowns, bridges
- Endodontic services: root canals (front and back teeth)
- Periodontal services: comprehensive gum disease treatment
- Oral surgery: extractions, oral surgery procedures
- Prosthetics: dentures (full and partial), some implant services
- Emergency dental care: pain management, infection treatment
Enhanced Coverage for HCBS Members: Adults enrolled in Home and Community Based Services waivers receive additional benefits:
- Preventative and basic services limited to $2,000 per service plan yearâµ
- Implants when necessary to support bridges or increase stability of prosthetics
- Specialized care coordination
Income Eligibility for Health First Colorado
Standard Health First Colorado:
- Up to 138% Federal Poverty Level for most adults
- $21,618 annually ($1,802 monthly) for individuals in 2025
- $29,188 annually ($2,432 monthly) for couples
For Seniors 65+:
- May qualify for additional pathways even with Medicare
- Asset limits vary by program
Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Colorado Seniors
1. Health First Colorado (Colorado Medicaid)
Current Status: Colorado expanded Medicaid and provides comprehensive dental coverage with recent major improvements.
Who Qualifies:
- Colorado residents
- Income up to 138% Federal Poverty Level
- U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants
- Seniors may qualify even with Medicare
What You Get:
- Unlimited annual dental benefits (improved July 2023)
- DentaQuest coordination and provider network
- Call DentaQuest at 855-225-1729 to find dentists and manage benefitsâ¶
How to Apply:
- Online: Colorado PEAK (colorado.gov/peak)
- Phone: 1-800-221-3943
- In person: Local county departments of human services
2. Colorado Dental Health Care Program for Low-Income Seniors
Legislative Foundation: Created by Senate Bill 14-180 specifically for seniors age 60 and overâ·
Who Qualifies:
- Age: 60 years and older
- Income: At or below 250% Federal Poverty Level ($39,125 for individuals, $52,875 for couples in 2025)
- Insurance Status: Not eligible for Health First Colorado dental benefits or Old Age Pension Health and Medical Care Program
- No private dental insurance
What You Get:
- Sliding fee scale based on income
- Services through grantee providers statewide
- Nearly full state coverage through Department grantees
How to Access:
- Visit the Grantee Appointment Information by County page for approved dentists
- Contact providers directly for appointments
- Fee schedule available showing maximum co-payments
3. University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine
Why Choose CU Dental:
- Fees up to 50% less than local private practicesâ⁸
- Accepts Health First Colorado in student and advanced care clinicsâ⁹
- State-of-the-art facility on Anschutz Medical Campus
Clinic Options:
Student Provider Clinics:
- Lowest cost option (up to 50% savings)
- Treatment by third and fourth-year dental students
- Expert faculty supervision at all times
- Longer appointment times due to educational nature
- Health First Colorado accepted
Senior & Special Care Clinic (SSCC):
- Specializes in treating seniors 65+ and patients with cognitive, developmental, medical, and physical conditions¹â°
- Enhanced services for complex needs
- Coordination with medical specialties
Advanced Care Clinics:
- Treatment by experienced dental residents
- Standard appointment times with reduced prices
- Specialized care under faculty supervision
- Health First Colorado accepted
Senior Smiles Program:
- State-funded program for qualifying Colorado residents ages 60 and older¹¹
- Additional eligibility screening required
- Subject to fund availability
Contact Information:
- Main Line: (303) 724-6900
- Patient Scheduling: (303) 724-6941
- Senior & Special Care Clinic: (303) 724-8336
- Address: 13065 E. 17th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045
4. Colorado Mission of Mercy (COMOM)
What It Is: Large-scale, 125-chair portable dental clinic held annually in different Colorado communities¹²
2025 Event:
- Dates: October 17-18, 2025
- Location: Loveland, CO
- Services: Cleanings, fillings, root canals, extractions, dentures, crowns (as time permits)
Impact:
- From 2007 through 2024: 20,000 patients served, $18 million in donated dental care¹³
- 2024 Thornton event: Nearly 1,000 patients, $1 million in donated care value¹â´
Important Details:
- No income requirements – “no questions asked” basis
- First-come, first-served
- All ages welcome
- Many patients arrive the night before and camp out
- Some patients travel from out of state
How to Participate:
- Monitor comom.org for updates
- Arrive early (doors typically open at 6 AM)
- Bring ID and any medications
- Expect long wait times but significant savings
5. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program
Current Status: Active program through Dental Lifeline Network with both Denver metro and statewide coordinators
Who Qualifies:
- Age 65 or older, OR permanently disabled, OR medically compromised
- Cannot afford necessary dental treatment
- Must exhaust other options (Medicaid, dental schools) first
- Need comprehensive dental work (not just cleanings)
County Restrictions:
- Some counties not accepting new applications at this time¹âµ
- Veterans may apply even if county is closed
- Medical emergency exceptions available
Application Process:
- Denver Metro Area Coordinator: Holly Davis, DDS – (303) 534-3931
- Outside Denver Metro: Erinne Langlois, DDS – (303) 534-3863
- Online Application: dentallifeline.org/apply-for-help/application
6. Veterans Dental Benefits in Colorado
VA Medical Centers in Colorado:
VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System:
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center: 1700 N Wheeling St, Aurora, CO 80045
- Colorado Springs VA Clinic: 3141 Centennial Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907
VA Western Colorado Health Care System:
- Grand Junction VA Medical Center: 2121 North Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501
VA Dental Eligibility Classes:
| VA Class | Who Qualifies | Coverage Level |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Service-connected dental disability | Any needed dental care |
| Class 2 | Recently discharged (within 180 days) | One-time comprehensive care |
| Class 4 | 100% disability rating or unemployability | Any needed dental care |
| Class 5 | Vocational rehabilitation enrollees | Care related to rehab goals |
Contact Information:
- VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
- Rocky Mountain VA: (303) 399-8020
- Colorado Springs VA: (719) 327-5660
- Grand Junction VA: (970) 263-6811
Regional Programs by Colorado Area
Denver Metro Area
University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine (Primary Option)
- Aurora campus with comprehensive services
- Multiple clinic options from student to faculty practice
- Senior & Special Care Clinic specializing in seniors
Community Health Centers
- Multiple Denver Health locations accepting Health First Colorado
- Sliding fee scales for uninsured patients
Colorado Springs Area
Peak Vista Community Health Centers
- Dental Health Center: 2828 International Circle, Suite 100
- Main Location: 111 E. Las Vegas Street
- Phone: (719) 632-5700
- Accepts Health First Colorado and offers sliding fees
Northern Colorado
Salud Family Health Centers
- Brighton: 1860 Egbert St, Brighton, CO 80601 – (303) 655-4955
- Commerce City: 6255 Quebec Pkwy, Commerce City, CO 80022 – (303) 697-2583
- Federally Qualified Health Centers serving diverse populations
Western Colorado
Valley-Wide Health Systems
- Address: 135 E. 6th Street, Center, CO 81125
- Phone: (719) 754-3584
- Serves rural communities in San Luis Valley
Northwest Colorado Dental Care
- Address: 485 Yampa Avenue, Craig, CO 81625
- Phone: (970) 824-8000
- Rural community focus
Statewide Programs
Colorado Mission of Mercy
- Annual event in different Colorado communities
- 2025: Loveland (October 17-18)
DDS Program
- Statewide volunteer dentist network
- Different coordinators for metro vs. rural areas
Special Population Resources
LGBTQ+ Seniors
Health First Colorado Non-Discrimination
- Colorado prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity
- All Health First Colorado providers must provide culturally competent care
Community Health Centers
- Many FQHCs have specific LGBTQ+ cultural competency training
- Safe, welcoming environments
Disabled Seniors
Enhanced HCBS Coverage
- Additional $2,000 annual benefit for Home and Community Based Services waiver enrollees¹â¶
- Specialized care coordination
- Implant coverage when medically necessary
CU Senior & Special Care Clinic
- Specializes in patients with cognitive, developmental, medical, and physical conditions
- Enhanced accessibility accommodations
Rural Seniors with Limited Access
Regional Health Centers
- Valley-Wide Health Systems (San Luis Valley)
- Northwest Colorado Dental Care (Craig area)
- River Valley Family Health Centers (multiple locations)
Colorado Mission of Mercy
- Rotates to different communities annually
- Designed to reach underserved rural populations
Veteran Seniors
Comprehensive VA Services
- Multiple VA medical centers and clinics statewide
- Enhanced benefits for service-connected conditions
- VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) for additional coverage
Native American Seniors
Tribal Health Services
- Indian Health Service provides comprehensive dental care
- Additional funding and services for enrolled tribal members
- No income restrictions for tribal members
Current Dental Costs in Colorado (2025 Data)
Typical Private Practice Costs (Denver Area)
| Service | Colorado Average | National Range |
|---|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning | $110-$175 | $75-$300 |
| Composite Filling | $200-$350 | $150-$450 |
| Porcelain Crown | $1,000-$1,700 | $800-$1,700 |
| Root Canal (Molar) | $900-$1,500 | $700-$1,600 |
| Complete Dentures | $1,200-$3,000 | $1,000-$3,500 |
| Dental Implant | $2,500-$5,000 | $2,000-$6,000 |
CU School of Dentistry Pricing
- General Rule: Up to 50% less than local private practices
- Example Savings: Typical crown $500-$850 (vs. $1,000-$1,700 private)
- Payment Options: Health First Colorado accepted, CareCredit available
Income Eligibility Quick Reference (2025)
| Household Size | 138% FPL (Health First Colorado) | 250% FPL (Senior Program) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Income | ||
| 1 person | $21,618 | $39,125 |
| 2 people | $29,188 | $52,875 |
| Monthly Income | ||
| 1 person | $1,802 | $3,260 |
| 2 people | $2,432 | $4,406 |
Health First Colorado available up to 138% FPL; Senior Program up to 250% FPL
Action Plan: Step-by-Step Guide for Colorado Seniors
Step 1: Assess Your Situation
- Emergency? Call CU Dental at (303) 724-6900 or hospital ER for severe symptoms
- Veteran? Call VA benefits: 1-800-827-1000 first
- Income under $21,618? You likely qualify for Health First Colorado
- Age 60+ with income under $39,125? You qualify for Senior Dental Program
Step 2: Apply for Health First Colorado First
- Best Option: Most Colorado seniors should start here due to comprehensive coverage
- Online: Colorado PEAK (colorado.gov/peak)
- Phone: 1-800-221-3943
- Processing Time: Typically 30-45 days
Step 3: Find Network Dentists
- DentaQuest: Call 855-225-1729 for provider referrals
- CU School of Dentistry: Call (303) 724-6900
- Local FQHCs: Most accept Health First Colorado
Step 4: Consider Backup Options
If Income Too High for Health First Colorado but Under $39,125:
- Colorado Dental Health Care Program for Low-Income Seniors
- Check county-specific providers
If Need Reduced-Cost Care:
- CU School of Dentistry (up to 50% savings)
- Community health centers with sliding fees
If Need Free Care:
- Colorado Mission of Mercy (October 2025)
- Donated Dental Services (if eligible and county open)
Step 5: Gather Required Documents
- Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport)
- Social Security card and award letter
- Income verification (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)
- Proof of residency (utility bills, lease agreement)
- Medicare cards (if applicable)
Step 6: Plan for Care
- Transportation: CU Dental is on light rail line from Denver
- Covered parking available at CU campus
- Bring medications list and medical history
- Therapy dogs available at CU on Wednesdays and Fridays for stress reduction
Medicare and Insurance Options for Colorado Seniors
Medicare Limitations
- Traditional Medicare: Does not cover routine dental care
- Medicare Advantage: Some plans include dental benefits (typically $1,000-$3,000 annual limits)
Connect for Health Colorado Dental Plans
- Stand-alone dental plans: Available through state marketplace
- Must purchase with health plan: Cannot buy dental-only coverage
- Premium range: Varies by coverage level and carrier
Health First Colorado for Medicare Recipients
- Dual Eligibility: Can have both Medicare and Health First Colorado
- Comprehensive Coverage: Health First Colorado covers dental care that Medicare doesn’t
- No additional premium if you qualify
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Colorado Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: Yes! Health First Colorado provides comprehensive dental coverage for adults with no annual limit as of July 2023, including preventive, restorative, and emergency care.
Q: What income qualifies for Health First Colorado? A: Up to 138% of Federal Poverty Level: $21,618 annually ($1,802 monthly) for individuals in 2025.
Q: Is there a special program for seniors who don’t qualify for Medicaid? A: Yes. The Colorado Dental Health Care Program serves seniors age 60+ with income up to 250% Federal Poverty Level ($39,125 for individuals).
Q: How much does CU dental school cost? A: Up to 50% less than local private practices. They accept Health First Colorado and offer multiple clinic options.
Q: When is the next Colorado Mission of Mercy? A: October 17-18, 2025 in Loveland, CO. It’s free and open to anyone needing dental care.
Q: How long is the wait for Donated Dental Services? A: Varies by county and availability of volunteer dentists. Some counties are currently closed to new applications.
Q: What should I do for a dental emergency with no insurance? A: Call CU School of Dentistry at (303) 724-6900 for urgent care, or go to a hospital emergency room for severe symptoms.
Q: Can veterans get free dental care in Colorado? A: Some can, depending on their VA benefit class. Veterans with service-connected dental disabilities or 100% disability ratings qualify for comprehensive care.
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 involving multiple teeth
- Severe, uncontrollable pain
Avoid These Dental Scams
- Door-to-door dental services
- “Free” dental work with no legitimate program verification
- Pressure to sign up immediately without clear information
- Mobile dental units in parking lots without proper credentials
- Requests for payment upfront for “free” services
Legitimate Program Characteristics
- Income verification required for means-tested programs
- Licensed facilities and dentists
- Clear information about costs, coverage, and wait times
- Established physical addresses and verifiable phone numbers
- Proper referral processes and documentation
Resources
Primary Contact Numbers
Emergency Dental Care:
- CU School of Dentistry: (303) 724-6900
- After-hours emergency: (720) 848-0000 (ask for dental resident)
Health First Colorado (Medicaid):
- Application assistance: 1-800-221-3943
- DentaQuest (dental coordinator): 855-225-1729
- Colorado PEAK website: colorado.gov/peak
Senior-Specific Programs:
- Colorado Senior Dental Program: See county grantee list
- CU Senior & Special Care Clinic: (303) 724-8336
Free/Charitable Programs:
- Colorado Mission of Mercy: comom.org
- Donated Dental Services: dentallifeline.org/colorado
- Denver Metro DDS: (303) 534-3931
- Outside Denver DDS: (303) 534-3863
Veterans:
- VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
- Rocky Mountain VA (Aurora): (303) 399-8020
- Colorado Springs VA: (719) 327-5660
- Grand Junction VA: (970) 263-6811
Government Resources
Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing
- Website: hcpf.colorado.gov
- Senior dental program information and provider directories
Colorado Dental Association
- Website: cdaonline.org
- Low-fee clinic listings and charitable program information
Colorado Department of Human Services
- County offices for Health First Colorado applications
- Local eligibility determination
National Resources
Dental Lifeline Network
- Website: dentallifeline.org
- National donated dental services program
Health Resources and Services Administration
- Website: findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov
- Locate federally qualified health centers
Veterans Affairs
- Website: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care
- Complete VA dental benefits information
Local Resources by Region
Denver Metro:
- Colorado Dental Association: cdaonline.org
- Denver Health: denverhealth.org
Colorado Springs:
- Peak Vista Community Health Centers: peakvista.org
- El Paso County Health Department
Northern Colorado:
- Salud Family Health Centers: saludclinic.org
- UC Health dental services
Western Colorado:
- Valley-Wide Health Systems: vwhs.org
- Colorado West Regional Mental Health
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 the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing, University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine, VA medical centers, Colorado Mission of Mercy, Dental Lifeline Network, and verified healthcare organizations.
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 current availability.
Information Currency:
- Last Updated: August 2025
- Sources Verified: August 2025
- Next Review: February 2026
Important Note: Dental 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.
Sources
- Health First Colorado: No annual benefit limit for adult dental care (2023)
- Denver7: Colorado Mission of Mercy hosts free dental clinic (2024)
- University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine: Patient Care
- Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing: Health First Colorado Dental Benefits
- Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing: HCBS Dental Services
- DentaQuest: Health First Colorado Medicaid Dental Plan
- Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing: Colorado Dental Health Care Program for Low-Income Seniors
- CU School of Dental Medicine: Patient Care Services
- AgeWise Colorado: University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine
- CU School of Dental Medicine: Senior & Special Care Clinic
- Colorado Dental Association: Low-Fee Clinics
- Colorado Mission of Mercy: About Us
- ColoradoGives.org: Support Colorado Mission of Mercy
- America’s Dentists Care Foundation: Upcoming Free Dental Clinics
- Dental Lifeline Network: Access to Dental Care Programs in Colorado
- VA Eastern Colorado Health Care: Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center
- VA Dental Care Benefits
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: 2025 Poverty Guidelines
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. Income limits and program availability are subject to change based on federal and state legislation and funding availability. All costs and statistics cited are from the sources indicated and were accurate as of the publication date shown. Medical advice should always be sought from qualified healthcare professionals.
This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available dental care assistance programs.