Dental Grants in Mississippi

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

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated:

Medical Review: Content verified against current Mississippi Medicaid policies and federal poverty guidelines

If You Need Emergency Help – Get Care Today

If you’re having a dental emergency right now:

Immediate Emergency Resources

1. Jackson Free Clinic

  • Address: 925 Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Jackson, MS 39203 (Note: Dental services are often coordinated here or at partner sites; always call first)
  • Phone: (601) 355-5161
  • Hours: Select Saturdays (Hours vary; typically 10 AM – 4 PM)
  • Services: Emergency dental care including examinations, x-rays, and extractions
  • Status: Active 2026. Operated by UMMC dental students and faculty volunteers.
  • Important: Services are often first-come, first-served. It is highly recommended to call or check their website for the specific Saturday schedule before traveling.

2. University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) School of Dentistry

  • Address: 2500 N State St, Jackson, MS 39216
  • Student Clinic Phone (Lower Cost): (601) 984-6155 (Option 1)
  • Faculty Practice Phone (Higher Cost): (601) 984-6185
  • After-Hours Emergency: (601) 984-1000 (Ask for the dentist on call)
  • Cost: Student clinic fees are approximately 50% lower than private practice fees.
  • 2026 Special Event: Dental Mission Week is scheduled for February 2–6, 2026. This event provides free dental treatment (cleanings, extractions, fillings) to underserved adults and children. Applications are required in advance.
  • Status: Mississippi’s only dental school; open for 2026 patient intake.

3. Hospital Emergency Rooms

  • When to Go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever accompanied by tooth pain, or trauma to the face/jaw.
  • What They Do: Emergency stabilization, infection control (antibiotics), and pain management.
    • Note: Most ERs cannot perform dental procedures like fillings or root canals.
  • Cost: High facility fees apply; however, they are required by law to provide a medical screening exam regardless of ability to pay.

Key Takeaways

Bottom Line: Mississippi offers limited free dental options for seniors, but verified resources exist for those who know where to look. Success requires patience, proper documentation, and understanding income requirements.

What You Need to Know Right Now:

Understanding Mississippi’s Dental Care Challenge for Seniors

The Limited Healthcare Landscape

Mississippi faces significant oral health challenges for seniors, ranking among the lowest states for senior dental visits as of early 2026.

  • Standard Medicaid Limitations: For most adults, standard Mississippi Medicaid dental coverage remains limited , primarily covering problem-focused exams, X-rays, and extractions to manage pain or infection.It generally does not cover preventative cleanings or restorative work (like crowns) for standard adult beneficiaries.
  • The “Dual-Eligible” Opportunity (2026 Update): A major shift for 2026 is the expansion of benefits for “Dual-Eligible” seniors (those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid). Many Mississippi Advantage (D-SNP) plans now include a dental allowance ranging from $1,500 to $3,000 per year.
    • Actionable Tip: If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, check your specific “MississippiCAN” or “Dual Complete” plan card. You likely have comprehensive dental benefits (including dentures and fillings) that standard Medicaid does not offer.

Health Connections: Why Dental Care Matters for Seniors

Modern research has solidified the link between oral health and systemic disease. In 2026, medical professionals in Mississippi are increasingly treating oral health as a critical part of chronic disease management.

Poor oral health increases risk of serious conditions common in seniors:

  • Heart Disease & Stroke: Research continues to show that inflammation from gum disease is linked to a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. The American Heart Association notes that gum disease bacteria can enter the bloodstream, potentially contributing to the narrowing of arteries.
  • Diabetes Complications: There is a two-way relationship: High blood sugar leads to gum disease, and severe gum disease makes blood sugar harder to control.Treating gum infections can help actually lower HbA1c levels.
  • Pneumonia: For seniors (especially those in nursing homes), aspirating bacteria from infected teeth into the lungs is a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia.
  • Malnutrition: Tooth loss and ill-fitting dentures force many Mississippi seniors to choose soft, processed foods over fresh fruits and vegetables, leading to nutritional shortcomings that weaken the immune system.

(Sources: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, CDC Oral Health Surveillance Report 2025)

Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Mississippi Seniors

1. Jackson Free Clinic (Statewide Serving the Uninsured)

Current Status (Verified 2026):

  • Operations: Active. Run by UMMC dental students and faculty.
  • History: The medical clinic was founded in 1999 by Dr. Joyce Olutade; dental services were added later and operate out of a dedicated dental suite at the same location.
  • Volunteer Impact: Dental students and faculty continue to donate hundreds of hours annually to keep this vital safety net running.

Services Available:

  • Primary Focus: Acute/Emergency Dental Care.
    • Examinations and Triage.
    • Digital X-rays and Diagnostics.
    • Tooth Extractions (Simple and Surgical).
    • Pain Management and Antibiotics.
  • Restorative Care: While the clinic has long-term goals to provide comprehensive care (fillings, crowns), the primary availability remains emergency extractions and pain relief . Note: Comprehensive services are occasionally available depending on the specific faculty volunteer present; ask during your screening.

Eligibility:

  • Residency: Must be a resident of Mississippi.
  • Insurance Status: Strictly for the Uninsured. You cannot have private dental insurance or Medicaid dental coverage.
  • Income: No specific income proof is typically required, but you must attest to have no insurance.
  • Age: All ages served (Adults and Children).

Contact:

  • Phone: (601) 355-5161
  • Address: 925 Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Jackson, MS 39203
  • Hours: Saturdays Only (typically 10 AM – 5 PM). Note: The clinic does not operate every Saturday. You must verify dates.
  • New 2026 Appointment Process:
    • Online Scheduling (Recommended): The clinic now encourages checking their website for open slots.
    • Phone: Leave a detailed message with your name, phone number, and specific dental issue.
    • Walk-ins: rarely accepted due to high demand; an appointment is strongly advised.

2. University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Dentistry

Why Consider UMMC:

Types of Care Available:

Clinic Type Provider Cost Level Wait Time
Student Clinics Dental students under supervision Lowest cost 2-6 weeks
Resident Clinics Dental residents Moderate cost 1-3 weeks
Faculty Practice Licensed dentists Higher but below private Variable

Special Programs:

Contact Information:

3. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program

How It Works:

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Age 65 or older, OR permanent disability, OR medically-fragile
  • Cannot afford dental treatment
  • Have medical condition affecting oral health

Application Process:

  • Contact: (601) 932-2200 (Mississippi Program Coordinator)
  • Website: dentallifeline.org/mississippi
  • Process: Physician referral may be required for program review

4. Veterans Affairs (VA) Dental Benefits

Eligibility Classes for Mississippi Veterans:

VA Class Who Qualifies Coverage
Class 1 Service-connected dental disability with compensation Any needed dental care
Class 2 Discharged within 180 days, incomplete dental treatment One-time dental care
Class 4 100% service-connected disability rating OR Individual Unemployability Any needed dental care
Class 5 Enrolled in VA Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31) Care needed to achieve rehab goals

VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP):

Contact:

Community Health Centers and Regional Resources

Central Mississippi

G.A. Carmichael Family Health Center

Lantern Medical/Dental Clinic

  • Location: Pearl
  • Phone: (601) 939-9300 or (601) 573-3060
  • Services: Medical and dental care for uninsured

Mission First

Northern Mississippi

Good Samaritan Health Services

  • Location: Tupelo
  • Phone: (662) 844-3733
  • Services: Low-cost dental care for uninsured

Tree of Life

  • Location: Tupelo
  • Phone: (662) 841-8777
  • Services: Community dental assistance

Southern Mississippi

Bethesda Free Clinic

  • Location: D’Iberville
  • Phone: (228) 818-9191
  • Services: Free health care services including dental referrals

Fellowship Health Clinic

  • Location: Hattiesburg
  • Phone: (601) 544-6149
  • Services: Community health services including dental

Delta Health Center

Eastern Mississippi

East Central MS Health Care

Medicare and Insurance Options for Mississippi Seniors

Traditional Medicare (Parts A & B)

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

  • Hospital-based procedures requiring medical admission
  • Medicare Part A may cover facility costs, but NOT the dental work itself
  • Limited coverage for dental care related to covered medical procedures

Medicare Advantage Plans

2026 Dental Coverage Reality:

  • Plan Availability: 84 Medicare Advantage plans are available in Mississippi for 2026 (up from 72 in 2025).
  • Cost: The average Medicare Advantage monthly premium in Mississippi has decreased to approx. $5.61 in 2026 (down from $21.32 in 2025).
    • Note: Many plans now offer $0 premiums but may have higher co-pays for services.
  • Annual Benefit Caps: Limits have increased to remain competitive, now typically ranging from $2,000 – $3,000 per year.
    • (Example: Local plans like “Healthy Mississippi” now offer dental allowances up to $3,000).
  • Warning: While the financial “allowances” look higher in 2026, the real challenge is the Network .
    • Most high-benefit plans are HMOs, meaning you must see a dentist in their specific network. If your preferred dentist does not accept “Humana Gold” or “UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete,” that $3,000 allowance is unusable. Always check the “Provider Directory” before signing up.

Stand-Alone Dental Plans

Six insurers offer stand-alone dental coverage through Mississippi’s health insurance marketplace, with premiums ranging from $12 to $40 per month.

Current Dental Costs in Mississippi (2026 Data)

Average Pricing (Based on Regional & State Surveys)

Service Mississippi Estimated Cost National Range Notes
Routine Cleaning $85 – $150 $90 – $200 Often cheaper at rural clinics; excludes deep cleaning.
Composite Filling $160 – $275 $150 – $350 Price varies significantly between front teeth (cheaper) and molars.
Porcelain Crown $1,100 – $1,500 $1,000 – $2,000 Mississippi average is ~$1,143; Zirconia options may be lower.
Root Canal $900 – $1,500 $800 – $1,700 Molar treatments are at the higher end ($1,200+).
Complete Dentures $1,400 – $3,200 $1,300 – $3,500 Per arch (top or bottom). Economy sets available for <$1,000.
Single Implant $3,000 – $5,500 $3,200 – $6,000 Includes post, abutment, and crown

Payment Options Available

  • CareCredit: Healthcare credit card (Warning: High interest rates if not paid during promotional period)
  • Dental office payment plans: Varies by provider
  • HSA/FSA: Pre-tax dollars can cover dental expenses
  • Third-party financing: Various companies offer extended payment terms

Income Eligibility Quick Reference (2026)

Federal Poverty Level Percentages for Mississippi (Effective January 13, 2026)

Household Size 100% FPL 150% FPL 200% FPL
Annual Income
1 person $15,960 $23,940 $31,920
2 people $21,640 $32,460 $43,280
3 people $27,320 $40,980 $54,640
Monthly Income
1 person $1,330 $1,995 $2,660
2 people $1,803 $2,705 $3,607
3 people $2,277 $3,415 $4,553

Source: US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) 2026 Poverty Guidelines.

  • Most Programs Use: 150% FPL or less for maximum assistance (including the “Extra Help” program for prescriptions and many dental charity programs).

Decision Tree: Which Program Should You Try First?

Start Here: Do you have a dental emergency?

  • YES → Jackson Free Clinic (601) 355-5161 or Hospital ER (severe symptoms)
  • NO → Continue to income assessment

What is your household monthly income?

  • Under $1,956 (single) or $2,644 (couple) → You qualify for most free programs
  • $1,956-$3,500 → UMMC dental school or payment plans
  • Over $3,500 → Private practice with insurance or payment plans

Are you a veteran?

  • YES → Check VA eligibility first: 1-800-827-1000
  • NO → Continue to location assessment

Where do you live?

  • Central Mississippi (Jackson area) → Jackson Free Clinic + UMMC
  • North Mississippi → Good Samaritan (Tupelo) + DDS program
  • South Mississippi → Community health centers + DDS program
  • All areas → UMMC School of Dentistry (worth the travel for major work)

Priority Order for Most Mississippi Seniors:

  1. Veterans: VA benefits (if eligible)
  2. All areas: Jackson Free Clinic for emergency care
  3. Major dental work: UMMC School of Dentistry
  4. Ongoing care: DDS program + local community health centers

Special Considerations for Diverse Senior Communities

LGBTQ+ Seniors

  • UMMC and Jackson Free Clinic provide inclusive care
  • VA benefits available regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Some community health centers offer LGBTQ+-friendly services
  • Discrimination in healthcare is illegal – report concerns to Mississippi Department of Health

Veteran Seniors

Disabled Seniors

  • DDS program specifically serves elderly, disabled, and medically-fragile adults
  • Community health centers required to accommodate disabilities
  • Transportation assistance may be available through Area Agencies on Aging
  • Medicaid may cover some dental care if condition affects overall health

Rural Seniors with Limited Access

  • UMMC’s Jackson location may require significant travel
  • Telemedicine consultations available for some services
  • Local health departments may provide transportation assistance
  • Consider combining dental visits with other medical appointments in Jackson

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Before You Apply – Gather These Documents

Required for Most Programs:

Document Type Specific Examples
Photo ID Driver’s license, state ID card, passport
Income Verification Social Security award letter, bank statements (3 months), tax returns
Residency Proof Utility bills, lease agreement, mortgage statement
Medical Information Medication list, medical conditions summary, insurance cards

Typical Application Timeline

Jackson Free Clinic:

  1. Call for information: (601) 355-5161
  2. Leave detailed message: Include name, phone, and needs
  3. Emergency care: Available same day on Saturdays

UMMC School of Dentistry:

  1. Initial call: (601) 984-6185
  2. Scheduling: 2-6 weeks for student clinic appointments
  3. Treatment planning: 1-2 weeks after initial exam

Donated Dental Services:

  1. Contact coordinator: (601) 932-2200
  2. Application: Submit required documentation
  3. Matching process: Varies by volunteer dentist availability

Application Success Tips

  1. Apply to Multiple Programs: Don’t rely on just one option
  2. Be Persistent but Polite: Follow up monthly on applications
  3. Keep Documentation Current: Income verification expires after 3-6 months
  4. Plan Ahead: Don’t wait until you’re in severe pain
  5. Consider Transportation: Factor travel time and costs to Jackson

Patient Success Stories

“I’m 68 and hadn’t been to a dentist in years because of the cost. My daughter found out about the free clinic in Jackson. The dental students were so professional and kind. They pulled two infected teeth that were causing me constant pain. Now I can eat without hurting.” – Robert M., Jackson

“The VA finally approved my dental benefits after my disability rating increased. The VADIP insurance covers most of my cleanings and fillings. It’s such a relief not to worry about dental costs anymore.” – Maria S., Biloxi

Note: Patients gave permission to share experiences; names changed for privacy

Warning Signs and Red Flags

Dental Emergency Symptoms – Seek Immediate Help

  • Facial swelling that affects 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 verification process
  • Pressure to sign up immediately
  • Requests for Social Security numbers before identity verification
  • “Mobile dental units” in parking lots without proper licensing

Legitimate Program Characteristics

  • Income verification required for free programs
  • Licensed facilities and providers
  • Clear information about costs and coverage
  • No upfront fees for applications
  • Established physical addresses and phone numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Mississippi Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: Mississippi Medicaid provides limited adult dental coverage – mainly extractions and related treatment with a $3 copay per visit. Comprehensive dental care is not covered.

Q: How much do dental procedures cost in Mississippi? A: Based on 2026 market rates: cleanings $85-$150 , composite fillings $160-$275 , crowns $1,100-$1,500 , and root canals $900-$1,500 . Costs vary significantly by location (eg, Jackson metro vs. rural areas) and provider.

Q: Is the Jackson Free Clinic still operating? A: Yes, the Jackson Free Clinic operates Saturdays 10 AM – 5 PM and is run by UMMC dental students and faculty.

Q: How long are waiting lists for free dental care? A: Varies significantly: Jackson Free Clinic (same-day emergency), UMMC (2-6 weeks), DDS program (varies by location and volunteer availability).

Q: What income qualifies for free dental programs? A: Most programs serve low-income and uninsured individuals. The 2026 Federal Poverty Level is $15,960 annual (approx. $1,330 monthly ) for a single individual. Many clinics set their cutoff at 150% or 200% of this amount.

Q: Can veterans get free dental care in Mississippi? A: Some can. Veterans with service-connected dental disabilities, 100% disability ratings, or enrolled in vocational rehab qualify for comprehensive VA 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 (swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing). For urgent dental pain, call Jackson Free Clinic (601) 355-5161 or UMMC (601) 984-6185.

Q: Are there mobile dental clinics in Mississippi? A: Limited information available. Contact Mississippi State Department of Health at (601) 206-1590 for current mobile clinic schedules.

Resources

State and Regional Resources

Mississippi State Department of Health Oral Health Office

Mississippi Primary Health Care Association

  • Phone: (601) 981-1817
  • Services: Information on community health centers throughout Mississippi

Mississippi Division of Medicaid

  • Phone: (601) 359-6050 or toll-free (800) 421-2408
  • Address: P.O. Box 2222, Jackson, MS 39225
  • Website: medicaid.ms.gov

National Resources

Dental Lifeline Network

211 Mississippi

  • Phone: 2-1-1
  • Services: Information on local assistance programs, transportation, emergency aid

Veterans Resources

VA Benefits Hotline

Emergency and Crisis Resources

Poison Control (medication interactions)

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

Veterans Crisis Line

  • Phone: 988, Press 1
  • Website: VeteransCrisisLine.net
  • Available: 24/7

Action Plan for Mississippi Seniors Needing Dental Care

Step 1: Assess Your Situation

  • Emergency? Call Jackson Free Clinic or go to ER for severe symptoms
  • Veteran? Call VA benefits hotline: 1-800-827-1000
  • Routine care? You have time to research and apply to multiple programs
  • Budget available? Consider UMMC School of Dentistry for reduced-cost care

Step 2: Gather Documentation

  • Photo ID and proof of income/residency
  • List of current medications (especially blood thinners, diabetes medications)
  • Insurance cards (Medicare, supplement plans, VA cards)

Step 3: Apply in Strategic Order

For emergency care:

  1. Jackson Free Clinic (601) 355-5161
  2. UMMC emergency line (601) 984-1000
  3. Hospital ER (severe symptoms only)

For routine care:

  1. DDS Program (601) 932-2200
  2. UMMC School of Dentistry (601) 984-6185
  3. Local community health center

If you’re a veteran:

  1. VA dental benefits (1-800-827-1000)
  2. VADIP insurance (if eligible)
  3. UMMC as backup option

Step 4: Follow Up and Plan B

  • Keep copies of all applications and documentation
  • Have backup transportation plans for Jackson appointments
  • Consider payment plans if free options aren’t available
  • Call monthly to check status (but be polite)

Step 5: Maintain Oral Health While Waiting

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  • Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed (avoid aspirin if bleeding risk)
  • Avoid hard foods that could cause further damage
  • Rinse with warm salt water for minor infections (1 tsp salt in 8 oz warm water)
  • See a doctor if you develop fever or facial swelling

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 grant opportunities.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, VA, CMS), state government departments, 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 deadlines.

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 or legal advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying. Dental program details, eligibility requirements, income limits, and contact information can change frequently. All costs and statistics cited are from the sources indicated and were accurate as of the publication date shown. The patient stories included have been anonymized with permission. Medical advice should always be sought from qualified healthcare professionals.

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

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.