Dental Grants in Connecticut

Affordable Dental Care Options for Connecticut Seniors in 2026

Last updated: January 16, 2026

Content verified against current Connecticut state programs and 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Quick Help for Connecticut Seniors

What you need to know today: Connecticut seniors still have strong options for affordable dental care in 2026. The most notable change is the earlier date and new location for the major free clinic event.

Most Important Facts:

• Free dental event confirmed:

  The Connecticut Mission of Mercy (CTMOM) is scheduled for April 17–18, 2026 .

  • Note: It has moved from June (previous years) to April.

  • Location: EO Smith High School (1235 Storrs Rd, Storrs, CT 06268).

  • Requirements: No income requirements, no insurance needed. First-come, first-served.

• Major savings available:

  UConn School of Dental Medicine (in Farmington and other community sites) continues to provide care at roughly 30–50% lower costs than private practices.

  • Tip: Student clinics offer the deepest discounts; Resident clinics (graduated dentists) offer moderate discounts.

• HUSKY Health (Medicaid) Limit: Connecticut Medicaid (HUSKY Health) still provides coverage for seniors, generally capped at $1,000 annually for necessary dental services (fillings, extractions, dentures).

  • Important: Preventive care (cleanings, x-rays) often does not count toward this $1,000 cap, meaning you can get those plus $1,000 worth of treatment.

• New Income Thresholds (2026):

  • 2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL): The guideline has increased to $15,960 for an individual (up from $15,650 in 2025).
  • Eligibility: Most sliding-scale and grant programs serve seniors earning up to 200% of the FPL (approx. $31,920 for a single person in 2026).

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Get Emergency Dental Help Today

If you’re having severe dental pain right now:

Immediate Care Options

UConn School of Dental Medicine Emergency Services

• Phone: (860) 679-3415
• Location: 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030
• Services: Connecticut’s largest emergency dental service
• Cost: Significantly less than private practice fees
• Hours: Call for emergency appointment availability

When to Go to a Hospital Emergency Room:

• Severe facial swelling affecting breathing or swallowing
• High fever with dental pain (signs of serious infection)
• Uncontrolled bleeding from mouth
• Trauma affecting multiple teeth

HUSKY Health Dental Hotline (if you’re enrolled):

• Phone: (866) 420-2924
• Services: Help finding dentists, appointment scheduling, benefits questions

Pain Management While Seeking Care

Only if your doctor says it’s safe for you:

• Take 600-800mg ibuprofen every 8 hours with food (avoid if you have kidney, heart, or stomach problems)
• Take 1000mg acetaminophen (Tylenol) every 6 hours
• Apply ice packs to outside of face for 15 minutes at a time
• Rinse gently with warm salt water (1 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces water)

⚠️ Important: Never exceed recommended doses. Always check with your doctor before taking pain medicines, especially if you take blood thinners or have health conditions.

Emergency Kit Checklist

• Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
• Income proof (Social Security statement, recent bank statements)
• Insurance cards (HUSKY, Medicare, private insurance)
• Complete list of current medications

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Understanding Connecticut’s Dental Cost Challenge

Why Dental Care Costs More in Connecticut

Connecticut dental costs are higher than many neighboring states. Recent data shows dental procedure costs in Connecticut include $1,533 for porcelain crowns and $1,469 for molar root canals. These prices reflect several factors:

• 28% increase for preventive services from 2020-2023
• Higher operational costs due to staffing shortages and expensive materials
• Connecticut’s Medicaid reimbursement rates have been frozen since 2016, leading many dentists to limit Medicaid patients

Why Good Dental Care Matters for Your Overall Health

Poor oral health creates serious health risks, especially for seniors:

• Heart problems: Gum disease bacteria can enter your bloodstream and contribute to heart disease
• Diabetes control: Gum infections make it harder to control blood sugar levels
• Pneumonia risk: Bacteria from infected teeth and gums can get into your lungs
• Nutrition problems: Missing or painful teeth make it difficult to eat healthy foods

Source: American Heart Association and American Diabetes Association research

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Free and Low-Cost Dental Programs for Connecticut Seniors

1. Connecticut Mission of Mercy (CTMOM) – Completely Free Care

2026 Event Confirmed:

• Dates: April 17–18, 2026
• Location: EO Smith High School , 1235 Storrs Rd, Storrs, CT 06268
• Note: This is a location changed from previous years (New Britain).
• Hours: Clinic doors open at 7:00 AM all days.
• Cost: Completely free – no income verification, no insurance needed.
• How it works: First-come, first-served – no appointments taken.

What They Provide:

• Services: Tooth extractions, fillings, cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments.
• Advanced Care: Limited root canals (usually front teeth/premolars only) and interim partial dentures.
• 2025 Impact: Approximately 1,100 patients are typically served during the two-day clinic.
• Priority: Special attention is often given to veterans, but the clinic is open to all.

What to Expect:

• Early Arrival is Critical: Lines begin forming well before dawn (often by 5:00 AM or earlier). Once capacity is reached, no more patients can be seen for the day.
• Wait Times: Be prepared for a full day. Bring a comfortable folding chair and entertainment (books, phone charger).
• Triage: Medical and dental triage happens first to determine what treatment you can safely receive.
• Transportation: Unlike the New Britain location, the Storrs location is on the UConn campus area; check local bus routes or arrange a ride in advance.

What to Bring:

• Medication List: A complete, printed list of your current medications and dosages (essential for the medical triage).
• Food & Water: Enough snacks and water to last you through a long wait and treatment day.
• Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers (gyms can be cool) and wear comfortable shoes.
• ID: Bring a form of identification (though citizenship/residency is generally not restricted, ID helps with records).

2. UConn School of Dental Medicine – Major Cost Savings

Contact Information:

• Phone: (860) 679-3415
• Address: 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030
• Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (extended to 7:00 PM in some areas)
• Website: health.uconn.edu/dental

Why UConn is a Good Choice:

• All care provided by dental students under direct supervision of licensed faculty
• Fees are 75-80% less than private practice
• Full range of services available
• Over 94,000 patient visits annually
• 174 treatment rooms in newly renovated facility

Types of Care Available:

Services Offered:

• General dentistry, cleanings, fillings, X-rays
• Root canals, crowns, bridges, dentures
• Oral surgery and tooth extractions
• Emergency dental care
• Periodontics (gum treatment)
• Orthodontics (limited cases)

Important Things to Know:

• Appointments with students take longer because they’re learning
• All work is carefully supervised by experienced dentists
• You’ll receive high-quality care at a much lower cost
• Payment is required at time of service
• They accept most insurance and will file claims for you

Getting Started:

1. Call (860) 679-3415 to request a screening appointment
2. Initial exam determines what care you need
3. You’ll be assigned to the appropriate clinic level
4. Bring insurance cards and be prepared to pay at each visit

3. HUSKY Health Dental Benefits (Connecticut Medicaid)

Who Qualifies:

• Connecticut residents age 65 or older
• Adults age 18-64 with qualifying disabilities
• Low-income individuals meeting asset and income requirements

Dental Coverage Details:

• Up to $1,000 annually for medically necessary dental services
• Some procedures require prior approval
• Must use dentists who accept HUSKY patients
• Connecticut Dental Health Partnership manages all dental benefits

Getting Help with HUSKY Dental:

• Phone: (866) 420-2924 (toll-free)
• Services include finding participating dentists
• Help with appointment scheduling
• Translation assistance available
• Transportation help may be available

How to Apply:

• Online at Access Health CT
• Phone: (855) 805-4325
• In-person at local Department of Social Services offices

4. Covered Connecticut Program – Free Health and Dental Insurance

Status for 2026: Active & Expanded.

• Deadline Alert: Open Enrollment for 2026 coverage has been extended to January 31, 2026 . (Enrollments after this date generally require a “Qualifying Life Event”).
• Federal Subsidy Update: Despite changes to federal subsidies in 2026, the State of Connecticut has committed funds to ensure Covered Connecticut members still pay $0/month.

Who This Helps:

• Connecticut residents ages 19–64.
• Those who earn too much for HUSKY Health (Medicaid) but meet the income limits below.
• Benefits: Provides comprehensive health insurance, dental coverage (administered by Dept. of Social Services), and non-emergency medical transportation at $0 monthly cost and $0 deductible.

2026 Income Limits (Based on 175% of FPL):

These limits apply to plans starting in 2026:

Source: Access Health CT Income Guidelines for 2026 Coverage (based on 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines).

How to Apply (Crucial Steps):

1. Go to Access Health CT: Apply during Open Enrollment (or Special Enrollment Period).
2. Select a Silver Plan: You must select a “Silver” level plan to unlock the Covered CT status.
3. Apply Full Credits: You must elect to use 100% of your available Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTC) toward the premium.
4. Result: The State of Connecticut pays the remaining balance, making your premium $0.

Contact:

• Phone: (855) 805-4325 (Access Health CT)
• Website: accesshealthct.com

5. Community Health Centers with Sliding Fee Scales

Connecticut has multiple Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) that provide dental care on sliding fee scales based on your income. These centers serve people regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.

What Sliding Fee Scale Means:

• Your cost is based on your household income and family size
• Most patients with incomes below 200% of Federal Poverty Level qualify
• Some services may be free for lowest-income patients
• You pay what you can afford, not the full price

Major Connecticut Community Health Centers with Dental Services:

• Community Health Center, Inc. – Multiple locations statewide
• Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center – New Haven area
• Southwest Community Health Center – Bridgeport area
• Charter Oak Health Center – Hartford area

To Find Centers Near You:

• Community Health Center Association of Connecticut – represents centers statewide
• Call 2-1-1 for local referrals
• Visit findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov for federal locator

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Medicare and Private Insurance Options

Traditional Medicare Limits

Important Reality: Medicare Parts A and B do not cover routine dental care like cleanings, fillings, or dentures. The only exceptions are dental services directly related to a hospital stay or emergency medical procedures.

Stand-Alone Dental Plans

Adult dental insurance premiums in Connecticut range from $24 to $72 per month through Access Health CT marketplace. These plans have annual benefit limits and waiting periods for major procedures.

Things to Consider:

• Most plans have 6-12 month waiting periods for major work
• Annual benefit caps typically $1,000-$2,500
• May not cover pre-existing conditions initially
• Compare monthly premiums against likely benefits

Medicare Advantage Plans

Current Status (January 2026):

• Active Enrollment Window: We are currently in the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (Jan 1 – March 31, 2026) 

  • What this means: If you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan but are unhappy with its dental coverage, you have a one-time opportunity to switch to a different plan right now.

• 2026 Trend: “Flex Cards” and higher dental allowances are more common this year. Many Connecticut plans (like ConnectiCare, UnitedHealthcare, and Anthem) now offer dental allowances ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 for comprehensive work (dentures, crowns) on their premium plans.

Action Steps:

1. Check Your Plan: Verify if your current 2026 plan includes a “Flex Card” or dental allowance you haven’t used yet.

2. Compare & Switch: If you need better coverage, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE before March 31 to see which plans in your zip code offer the highest dental maximums.

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Real Cost Comparisons: What Connecticut Seniors Actually Pay

Example Scenarios

Scenario 1: Helen, Age 73, Social Security Income $1,900/month

• Needs: Cleaning and two fillings
• UConn Student Clinic Cost: Approximately $200-250 total
• Private Practice Cost: $620+ total
• Savings: $370+ (60% less)
• Time Investment: One 3-4 hour appointment

Scenario 2: Robert, Age 68, Hartford

• Needs: Crown replacement
• UConn Resident Clinic: Estimated $700-900
• Private Practice: $1,533 (state average)
• Savings: $600+ (40% less)
• Alternative: Wait for CTMOM June 2025 event (free, but limited services)

Scenario 3: Maria, Age 75, Limited English, Income $1,400/month

• Best Option: Apply for HUSKY Health (likely qualifies)
• HUSKY Benefit: Up to $1,000 annual dental coverage
• Language Help: Translation services available through HUSKY
• Backup Plan: Community health center with sliding fee scale

Connecticut Dental Cost Reality Check (2026)

These figures reflect current 2026 averages for private practices in Connecticut versus the reduced rates available at the UConn School of Dental Medicine (Student & Resident Clinics).

Sources: 2026 Connecticut Market Surveys, CareCredit Procedure Cost Estimator, and UConn Dental Health estimates (Student clinics typically fee-set at 30-50% of private practice rates).

Key Takeaways for 2026:

• Price Hikes: Private practice fees for Crowns and Dentures have risen approx. 5-8% since 2025 due to lab material costs.
• UConn Advantage: The “savings gap” has expanded—UConn’s fixed student fees remain significantly lower than the rising private market, making the university clinic an even better value this year.
• Time vs. Money: Remember that UConn student appointments are longer (3 hours) because faculty must check every step. You pay less with your money but more with your time.

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Choosing the Right Program: Decision Guide

Start Here: What’s Your Situation?

Having a dental emergency right now?

• Yes → Call UConn emergency line (860) 679-3415 or go to hospital ER for serious symptoms
• No → Continue to income evaluation

What’s your monthly household income?

• Under $2,282 (single) or $3,084 (couple) → Apply for Covered Connecticut Program
• Higher income but still struggling → UConn dental school is your best option
• On HUSKY Health already → Call (866) 420-2924 to access your dental benefits

Are you able to wait for care?

• Can wait until April 17–18, 2026 → Plan to attend Connecticut Mission of Mercy in Storrs (completely free)
• Need care sooner → Apply to UConn Dental School clinics (reduced cost) or visit a Federally Qualified Health Center (sliding scale)

Recommended Priority Order for Most Seniors:

1. If you qualify for HUSKY Health: Use your $1,000 annual dental benefit first (covers exams, x-rays, fillings, and extractions).
2. Low income (under 175% FPL): Apply for the Covered Connecticut Program (provides $0 premium insurance + dental coverage).
3. All others: Visit the UConn School of Dental Medicine (30–50% lower fees).
4. Can wait for major work: Attend the Connecticut Mission of Mercy (CTMOM) on April 17–18, 2026 (completely free).
5. Need ongoing care: Establish a relationship with a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) for sliding-scale fees.

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Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying to UConn Dental School

1. Call (860) 679-3415 to schedule screening appointment
2. Wait time: Currently 2-6 weeks for initial exam
3. What happens: Dentist examines you and creates treatment plan
4. Assignment: You’re placed in student, resident, or faculty clinic based on your needs
5. Payment: Due at time of each visit – bring insurance cards

Required Documents:

• Valid photo ID
• Insurance cards (Medicare, private, HUSKY if applicable)
• Complete list of medications you take
• Method of payment (cash, check, credit card)

Applying for HUSKY Health

1. Online application: accesshealthct.com
2. Phone application: (855) 805-4325
3. Required documents:
   • Proof of Connecticut residency
   • Income verification (Social Security statements, bank records)
   • Asset information
   • Medical information if applying based on disability
4. Processing time: Typically 30-45 days
5. Once approved: Call (866) 420-2924 for dental provider help

Preparing for Connecticut Mission of Mercy (April 17–18, 2026)

• Mark your calendar now: No advance registration is available.
• New Location: EO Smith High School, Storrs, CT.
• Plan to arrive early: Aim for 5:00 AM – 6:00 AM for the best chance at comprehensive care (Doors open at 7:00 AM).
• Bring essentials:
• Photo ID
• Complete list of medications (critical for triage)
• Comfortable folding chair (expect long lines)
• Food and drinks for the entire day
• Warm clothing: Crucial Update —Since this event is now in April (not June), morning temperatures in Storrs can be quite cold (often 30s–40s°F). Dress in heavy layers.
• Set realistic expectations: Focus on your most urgent dental need first.

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Regional Access and Transportation

Hartford Area Residents

• UConn Farmington: 20-30 minutes drive from downtown Hartford
• Public transportation: Limited options – plan for private transportation
• Parking: Available on UConn Health campus
• Community health centers: Several in Hartford area with dental services

New Haven Area Residents

• Travel to UConn (Farmington): 45–50 minute drive
• • Tip: This is likely your best option for major work if you can travel, as it is closer than this year’s free clinic event in Storrs.
• Local Option: Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center (New Haven)
  • Offers dental services with a sliding fee scale based on income.
  • Action: Call (203) 503-3000 to ask about “Sliding Fee” eligibility before booking.
• CTMOM 2026 (Storrs): 1 hour 15 minute drive (approx).
  • Reality Check: The 2026 free clinic in Storrs is significantly further away than previous years (New Britain). You may find the daily UConn School of Dental Medicine in Farmington (45 mins away) to be a more accessible option for you than the CTMOM event this year.

Eastern Connecticut

• UConn access: Generally easier drive than from southwestern Connecticut
• Plan ahead: Consider scheduling multiple appointments on same day

Fairfield County (Southwestern Connecticut)

• Travel consideration: UConn is 1-2 hours depending on traffic and location
• Worth the trip: For major dental work, savings often justify travel costs
• Local alternatives: Southwest Community Health Center in Bridgeport area

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Important Health and Safety Information

Medication Warnings for Seniors

Always tell your dentist if you take:

• Blood thinners (Warfarin/Coumadin, Eliquis, Xarelto) – may require stopping before procedures
• Osteoporosis medications (Fosamax, Boniva, Reclast) – can affect jaw bone healing
• Diabetes medications – affects healing and infection risk
• Heart medications – may interact with dental numbing medicines

Never stop medications without your doctor’s permission – this can be dangerous.

Dental Emergency Warning Signs

Go to hospital emergency room immediately if you have:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Severe facial swelling
• High fever (over 101°F) with dental pain
• Uncontrolled bleeding that won’t stop with pressure

Call dentist or UConn emergency for:

• Severe tooth pain lasting more than 24 hours
• Lost filling or crown
• Broken tooth
• Swollen, painful gums

Avoiding Dental Scams

Be suspicious of:

• Door-to-door dental service offers
• “Free” dental work with no legitimate organization behind it
• High-pressure sales tactics for expensive treatment
• Mobile dental vans in parking lots without proper credentials
• Requests for Social Security numbers before verification of legitimate program

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Special Considerations for Connecticut Seniors

Accessibility and Accommodations

• UConn Health campus: Fully wheelchair accessible with dedicated parking
• CTMOM events: Organizers provide accommodations – call ahead if you need special assistance
• Community health centers: Required to provide accessibility under federal law
• Transportation: Some HUSKY Health members may qualify for medical transportation

Language and Cultural Support

• HUSKY Health: Offers translation services – call (866) 420-2924
• UConn: Translation services available by appointment
• Community health centers: Most provide interpreters for common languages in their service areas

Caregiver and Family Support

• Bring a trusted person: Especially helpful for complex treatment decisions
• Medical power of attorney: Bring documents if someone else makes medical decisions for you
• Care coordination: UConn and community health centers can work with your other doctors

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Connecticut Medicaid really cover dental care for seniors? A: Yes, HUSKY Health provides up to $1,000 annually for medically necessary dental services for enrolled members. However, not all procedures are covered, and you must use participating dentists.

Q: How much can I really save at UConn dental school? A: UConn reports fees are 75-80% less than private practice for student clinics. Actual savings depend on the procedure, but most seniors save $500-1,500+ on major work.

Q: Is the Connecticut Mission of Mercy really completely free? A: Yes, no income verification or payment required. However, it’s first-come, first-served, and lines form very early. The 2024 event provided over $1.1 million in free care.

Q: How long do UConn dental appointments really take? A: Student clinic appointments typically take 3-4 hours because students work more slowly and everything is double-checked by faculty. Resident clinic appointments are shorter, usually 2-3 hours.

Q: What should I do if I can’t afford any dental care? A: Start with applying for HUSKY Health if you’re eligible. If not, contact local community health centers about sliding fee scales. Many will work with you based on your ability to pay.

Q: Can I use Medicare at UConn dental school? A: Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental care anywhere. UConn accepts many private insurance plans and will file claims, but you’ll be responsible for the full cost since Medicare won’t pay.

Q: What if I need emergency dental care on weekends? A: Call UConn emergency number (860) 679-3415 first. For severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or high fever with dental pain, go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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Essential Contact Information

Emergency and Immediate Help

• UConn Dental Emergency: (860) 679-3415
• HUSKY Health Dental Hotline: (866) 420-2924
• Connecticut Crisis Line: 2-1-1 (24/7 for any crisis)
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 (medication questions)

Program Applications and Information

• UConn Dental School: (860) 679-3415
• Access Health CT (HUSKY/Covered CT): (855) 805-4325
• Connecticut Mission of Mercy: cfdo.org
• Community Health Centers: chcact.org

State Resources

• Connecticut Department of Public Health: (860) 509-8000
• 211 Connecticut: 2-1-1 for local assistance programs
• Connecticut Department of Social Services: Local offices statewide

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2026 Income Eligibility Quick Reference

Federal Poverty Level Guidelines for Connecticut (Effective January 13, 2026)

Source: US Department of Health and Human Services 2026 Poverty Guidelines (Federal Register, Jan 15, 2026).

Program Income Requirements:

• Covered Connecticut: 175% FPL or less
• Most sliding fee programs: 200% FPL or less
• HUSKY Health: Varies by category and circumstances

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Your Next Steps: Action Plan

If You Need Care Right Away (Emergency)

1. Call UConn emergency dental: (860) 679-3415
2. Severe symptoms: Go to nearest hospital emergency room
3. HUSKY members: Call (866) 420-2924 for urgent appointment help

If You Can Plan Ahead (Routine Care)

• Check income eligibility using the 2026 table above.
• Apply for appropriate programs:
  • HUSKY Health if you qualify (lowest income).
  • Covered Connecticut if income is below 175% FPL.
  • UConn Dental School for everyone else (moderate income/uninsured).
• Mark calendar: Connecticut Mission of Mercy on April 17–18, 2026 (New date & location).

Document Gathering Checklist

□ Valid photo ID
□ Social Security award letter or statements
□ Bank statements from last 3 months
□ Proof of Connecticut residency (utility bill, lease)
□ Complete medications list
□ Insurance cards (Medicare, private, HUSKY if applicable)
□ Contact information for your regular doctors

Follow-Up Strategy

• Monthly check-ins: Call programs to check application status
• Keep copies: Of all applications and important documents
• Update information: Notify programs of address, income, or insurance changes
• Plan transportation: Budget time and costs for traveling to appointments
• Build relationships: Establish ongoing care rather than just emergency treatment

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Looking Ahead: Stay Informed

What May Change

• Connecticut legislative sessions may expand Medicaid dental coverage
• Federal funding changes could affect community health center services
• UConn may adjust pricing or expand community programs

Stay Updated

• UConn announcements: Check health.uconn.edu/dental for program updates
• CTMOM events: Follow cfdo.org for 2026 dates and locations
• State program changes: Monitor portal.ct.gov for HUSKY updates
• Local health departments: Often first to announce new programs or funding

Remember: You deserve good dental care regardless of your income. These programs exist to help Connecticut seniors maintain their oral health and overall wellbeing. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help – the staff at these programs are there to assist you in finding care you can afford.

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Disclaimer: Dental program details, eligibility requirements, income limits, and costs can change frequently due to funding availability and policy modifications. Always verify current information directly with the relevant organization before making healthcare decisions. This guide provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Income limits and program availability are subject to change based on federal and state legislation. All costs and statistics cited were accurate as of January 2026. Medical advice should always be sought from qualified healthcare professionals.