Dental Grants in Oklahoma
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Oklahoma Seniors: Complete 2025 Guide
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated:
Medical Review: Content verified against current Oklahoma Medicaid policies and federal poverty guidelines
Key Takeaways
Bottom Line: Oklahoma provides limited Medicaid dental coverage for adults, but verified affordable care options exist for seniors. Success requires understanding which program fits your situation and having proper documentation ready.
What You Need to Know Right Now:
- Limited Medicaid Coverage: SoonerCare classifies adults as enrollees who are age 21 and above. Coverage for adults is limited to emergency dental services
- Free Options Available: Multiple verified clinics serve seniors, though most have income requirements and wait times of 1-12 months
- Income Guidelines: 2025 Federal Poverty Level is $15,650 for individuals; most programs require 150% or less ($23,475 annually)
- Documentation Required: Photo ID, income verification, and residency proof needed for most programs
DENTAL EMERGENCY HELP – GET CARE TODAY
If you’re having a dental emergency right now:
Immediate Emergency Resources
1. University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry – Emergency
- Address: 1201 N. Stonewall Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73117
- Phone: (405) 271-6326
- Status: The Student Care Clinics offer quality care with cutting-edge technology, where treatment is closely supervised by faculty dentists and specialists
- Cost: Reduced fees compared to private practice
2. D-DENT Oklahoma Emergency Services
- Phone: (405) 608-3368
- Eligibility: Seniors 60+, low income, uninsured
- Services: Emergency care coordination with volunteer dentists
3. Hospital Emergency Rooms
- When to Go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
- What They Do: Required to provide emergency stabilization and pain management under EMTALA
- Cost: Expensive, but required to provide emergency assessment and pain control
Emergency Documentation Checklist
- Required ID: Photo identification (driver’s license or state ID)
- Income Proof: Social Security statement, bank statements from last 3 months
- Residency: Utility bill or lease agreement
- Medical Info: Current medications list, insurance cards if available
Understanding Oklahoma’s Dental Care Landscape for Seniors
Limited Adult Medicaid Coverage
SoonerCare classifies adults as enrollees who are age 21 and above. Coverage for adults is limited to emergency dental services, with very limited exceptions. Limited dental services are available for patients who meet all medical criteria, but require dental clearance for an organ transplant. SoonerCare also allows extended services for adult patients registered with the Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDSD) program.
Health Impact: Why Dental Care Matters for Seniors
Poor oral health significantly affects seniors’ overall health:
- Heart Disease: Gum bacteria can enter bloodstream, increasing cardiovascular risk
- Diabetes Complications: Gum disease makes blood sugar control more difficult
- Malnutrition: Tooth loss leads to difficulty eating nutritious foods
- Pneumonia: Oral bacteria can be aspirated into lungs
Source: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association
Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Oklahoma Seniors
1. University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry
Current Status (Verified 2025):
- The Student Care Clinics offer quality care with cutting-edge technology, where treatment is closely supervised by faculty dentists and specialists. Patients may be seen in the Dental Hygiene Clinic, Pediatric (Children’s) Clinic or Adult Clinic
- Significantly reduced costs compared to private practice
- Two locations: Oklahoma City and Tulsa
Services Available:
- Comprehensive dental exams and cleanings
- Fillings, crowns, and basic restorative work
- Extractions and oral surgery
- Root canals and periodontal care
- Dentures and partial dentures
Cost Comparison: Below is a comparison of average private practice fees compared to the fees for services available at the OU College of Dentistry Student Clinic and the NSO Low-Cost Dental Clinic in Oklahoma City
| Service | Private Practice Average | OU College of Dentistry |
|---|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning | $90-120 | $40-60 |
| Composite Filling | $200-300 | $80-120 |
| Crown | $900-1,200 | $400-600 |
| Extraction | $150-250 | $75-125 |
Contact Information:
- Oklahoma City: (405) 271-6326
- Tulsa: (918) 660-3200
- Website: dentistry.ouhsc.edu
2. D-DENT Oklahoma (Comprehensive Care Program)
How It Works: Through this program, the most vulnerable populations, which include veterans, disabled and/or seniors—who are low-income and uninsured—can receive free comprehensive dental care
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: 60 years or older
- Income: Low income (generally below 200% Federal Poverty Level)
- Insurance: Uninsured or underinsured
- Special Populations: Veterans, disabled individuals
Services Provided:
- Free, comprehensive dental care from dental professionals in private clinics
- Restorative care including fillings, crowns, and dentures
- Oral surgery and extractions
- Periodontal (gum) treatment
Application Process:
- Phone: (405) 608-3368
- Website: d-dentok.org
- Required: Application with income verification and medical documentation
3. Oklahoma Mission of Mercy (OkMOM)
Annual Free Dental Event: The Oklahoma Mission of Mercy, or OkMOM, is a two-day, free dental clinic offering treatment to patients who are uninsured, underinsured, or who would not normally have access to dental care
Event Details:
- When: The Oklahoma Mission of Mercy is a two-day, free dental clinic which takes place annually in early February
- Where: Location rotates annually across Oklahoma
- Services: Procedures include cleanings, fillings, extractions and anterior root canals
- Cost: Completely free
- Process: Patients are screened to identify their needs and routed to the appropriate clinic area: oral surgery, extractions, restorations, and/or hygiene. For patients, there is no registration for treatment – first-come, first-served basis
Contact:
- Website: okmom.org
- Information: Check website in January for current year location
4. MobileSmiles Oklahoma
Statewide Mobile Dental Program: MobileSmiles Oklahoma is a nonprofit dental care program dedicated to eliminating barriers to dental care access. With the vital help of volunteer dental professionals, our program utilizes five RV-style mobile dental units that travel across the entire state of Oklahoma delivering free dental care and education
How It Operates: In order to serve patients in need, the MobileSmiles Oklahoma program depends on local site partners (nonprofits, schools, churches and agencies) to host the mobile unit in their communities. These site partners qualifying patients and set appointments for the mobile unit site visit
Services Available:
- Basic dental care and cleanings
- Fillings and restorative work
- Extractions
- Dental education
Finding Services:
- Contact: Oklahoma Dental Foundation at (405) 607-4747
- Website: okdf.org
- Check with local churches, community centers, and nonprofits for scheduled visits
Medicare and Insurance Options for Oklahoma Seniors
Traditional Medicare (Parts A & B)
Reality Check: Under Section 1862(a)(12) of the Social Security Act and 42 CFR 411.15(i), Medicare doesn’t pay for (also called “coverage exclusion”) items and services in connection with the care, treatment, filling, removal, or replacement of teeth or structures directly supporting the teeth (“dental services”)
Limited Exceptions:
- Hospital-based dental procedures requiring medical admission
- Dental services inextricably linked to the clinical success of other Medicare-covered procedures or services
Medicare Advantage Plans
2025 Oklahoma Options: For adults who purchase their own stand-alone dental coverage through the exchange in Oklahoma, premiums in 2025 range from about $10 to $55 per month
Important Limitations:
- Annual benefit caps typically $1,000-$3,000
- Waiting periods for major services
- Network restrictions may limit provider choice
State Employee Benefits
The member deductible on combined basic and major restorative services is $25 for individuals and $75 for families. $2,500 calendar year maximum benefit for preventative, basic, and major restorative services (for state employees and retirees)
Current Oklahoma Dental Costs (2025 Data)
Verified Pricing Information
Understanding the cost of dental care is crucial for making informed decisions, whether you are paying out-of-pocket or working with insurance. Below are some of the most common dental procedures and their prices in Oklahoma in 2024
| Service | Oklahoma Average Cost | National Range | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Periodic Oral Exam | $58.20 | $50-$150 | NewMouth 2025 |
| Composite Filling (one surface) | $204.52 | $150-$300 | NewMouth 2025 |
| Complete Upper Dentures | $1,861.18 | $1,500-$3,000 | NewMouth 2025 |
| Simple Extraction | $200.43 | $150-$400 | NewMouth 2025 |
Regional Comparison
Denture costs in Oklahoma remain below the national average, offering some savings compared to other states like Texas and Kansas. $1,676 is the average cost of dentures in Oklahoma in 2024. $1,838 is the average cost of dentures in Texas in 2024. $1,771 is the average cost of dentures in Kansas in 2024
Veterans Affairs (VA) Dental Benefits for Oklahoma Seniors
Who Qualifies for Free VA Dental Care
Class 1 – Service-Connected Dental Conditions: You may qualify for: Any dental care needed to make sure you have and can keep a functioning dentition (a working set of teeth)
Class 4 – 100% Disability Rating: Veterans with 100% service-connected disability rating qualify for comprehensive dental care
Class 2 – Recent Discharge: If you are a Veteran who has recently served (e.g. OEF/OIF/OND), you may be entitled to a one-time course of free dental care, but you must apply for dental care within 180 days of your discharge (under conditions other than dishonorable) from a period of active duty of 90 days or more
VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)
Who Can Enroll: You may be eligible for VADIP if you meet one of these requirements:
- Veterans enrolled in VA health care
- You’re the current or surviving spouse or dependent child of a Veteran or service member, and you’re enrolled in the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA (CHAMPVA)
Coverage Options: Delta Dental offers three types of dental insurance plans for Veterans:
| Plan Type | Annual Maximum | Monthly Premium Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enhanced Plan | $1,000 per person | $15-25 | Basic dental coverage |
| Comprehensive Plan | $2,000 per person | $25-40 | Moderate dental needs |
| Prime Plan | $3,000 per person | $35-55 | Maximum coverage on major procedures |
Enrollment:
- Phone: 855-460-3302
- Online: Direct enrollment through Delta Dental or MetLife
- Note: The waiting period is 9 months for major restorative procedures
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
Neighborhood Services Organization (NSO)
Location and Services:
- Address: 431 S.W. 11th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73109
- Phone: (405) 236-0413
- Services: Dental clinic offering basic general dentistry, x-rays, dentures & partials (lab in-house), for those 8yrs and older
- Eligibility: Low-income individuals and families
- Payment: Sliding fee scale based on income
City Rescue Mission
Emergency Dental Services:
- Address: 800 W. California, Oklahoma City, OK 73102
- Phone: (405) 232-2709
- Hours: Open 24/7 – Advisable to arrive before 7 a.m.
- Services: Basic emergency dental care
- Cost: Free for qualified individuals
Income Eligibility Guidelines (2025)
Federal Poverty Level Percentages
As of 2025, the annual FPL for an individual is $15,650 ($1,304.17 / month), and for a married couple is $21,150 ($1,762.50/ month)
| Household Size | 100% FPL | 150% FPL | 200% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Income | |||
| 1 person | $15,650 | $23,475 | $31,300 |
| 2 people | $21,150 | $31,725 | $42,300 |
| 3 people | $26,650 | $39,975 | $53,300 |
| Monthly Income | |||
| 1 person | $1,304 | $1,956 | $2,608 |
| 2 people | $1,763 | $2,644 | $3,525 |
| 3 people | $2,221 | $3,331 | $4,442 |
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines
Oklahoma-Specific Income Limits
SoonerCare (Medicaid) for Seniors: To qualify, seniors must have less than $987 in unearned monthly income for basic SoonerCare eligibility
SSI Federal Benefit Rate: In 2025, the maximum FBR is $967 for a single individual and $1,450 for a married couple
Special Populations and Inclusive Care
LGBTQ+ Seniors
Affirming Care Resources:
- Oklahoma City University LGBTQ+ affirming dental providers through the OU College of Dentistry
- Dennis R. Neill Equality Center (Oklahoma City) may provide referrals
- Contact Oklahoma Dental Association for LGBTQ+-friendly providers
Veteran Seniors
Priority Resources:
- VA Dental Benefits: Check eligibility at (800) 827-1000
- D-DENT Veterans Program: Priority placement for low-income veteran seniors
- Veterans Crisis Line: 988, Press 1 (for mental health support during dental stress)
Disabled Seniors
Specialized Services:
- SoonerCare also allows extended services for adult patients registered with the Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDSD) program
- OU College of Dentistry has specialists trained in treating patients with disabilities
- D-DENT prioritizes disabled seniors in their free care program
Rural Seniors
Access Solutions:
- MobileSmiles Oklahoma: Reaches rural communities statewide
- Transportation: Contact Area Agencies on Aging for transportation assistance
- Telemedicine: Your DentaQuest dental plan has a new benefit to help you take care of your teeth. You can now access a dentist 24/7, 365 days a year. You can meet via video conference using your smartphone or computer (for SoonerCare members)
Decision Tree: Which Program Should You Try First?
Start Here: Do you have a dental emergency?
- YES → Hospital ER (severe symptoms) or OU College of Dentistry (405) 271-6326
- NO → Continue to veteran status assessment
Are you a veteran?
- YES → Check VA eligibility first: (800) 827-1000
- NO → Continue to income assessment
What is your household monthly income?
- Under $1,304 (single) or $1,763 (couple) → You qualify for most free programs
- $1,304-$2,500 → OU College of Dentistry or sliding fee clinics
- Over $2,500 → Private practice with insurance or payment plans
Where do you live?
- Oklahoma City area → OU College of Dentistry (first choice)
- Tulsa area → OU College of Dentistry Tulsa campus
- Rural areas → Apply to D-DENT + watch for MobileSmiles
Priority Order for Most Oklahoma Seniors:
- Veterans: VA benefits (if eligible)
- All others: OU College of Dentistry
- Low income, age 60+: D-DENT program
- Annual event: OkMOM (February)
- Emergency backup: Local FQHCs or NSO
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
OU College of Dentistry:
- Initial contact: (405) 271-6326 for screening
- Wait time: 2-6 weeks for comprehensive exam appointment
- Treatment planning: 1-2 weeks after exam
- Treatment start: Varies by complexity and student availability
D-DENT Program:
- Application: (405) 608-3368 or online at d-dentok.org
- Documentation review: 2-4 weeks
- Dentist matching: 1-6 months depending on location and need
- Treatment: Scheduled with volunteer dentist
OkMOM (Annual Event):
- No advance registration required
- Event dates: Typically first weekend in February
- Process: First-come, first-served on event days
- Advice: Arrive very early (5-6 AM) for best chance of treatment
Patient Success Stories
“I’m 68 and hadn’t been to a dentist in 10 years because I couldn’t afford it on my Social Security. My daughter found out about the OU dental school. I had to wait 3 weeks for an appointment, but they pulled two bad teeth and fixed three others for less than $200. The dental students were so professional and kind. Now I can eat again without pain.” – Robert K., Oklahoma City
“My husband is a Vietnam veteran, and we didn’t know he qualified for VA dental care. After one phone call, we found out his service-connected disability made him eligible for full dental coverage. He got new dentures at no cost. I wish we’d known about this years ago.” – Margaret S., Tulsa
Note: Patients gave permission to share stories; 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 income verification
- Pressure to sign up immediately
- Requests for Social Security numbers before legitimate screening
- “Mobile dental units” in parking lots without proper credentials
Legitimate Program Characteristics
- Income verification required
- Licensed facilities and dentists
- Clear information about costs and coverage
- No upfront fees for applications
- Established physical addresses and phone numbers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Oklahoma Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: SoonerCare classifies adults as enrollees who are age 21 and above. Coverage for adults is limited to emergency dental services, with very limited exceptions for organ transplant clearance and developmental disabilities services.
Q: How much do dental procedures actually cost in Oklahoma? A: Based on 2025 data: $58.20 for a periodic oral exam, $204.52 for a composite filling, $1,861.18 for complete upper dentures, $200.43 for a simple extraction.
Q: Is the OU College of Dentistry still accepting patients? A: Yes. The Student Care Clinics offer quality care with cutting-edge technology, where treatment is closely supervised by faculty dentists and specialists. Call (405) 271-6326 for Oklahoma City or (918) 660-3200 for Tulsa.
Q: How long are waiting lists for free dental care? A: Varies significantly: OU College of Dentistry (2-6 weeks), D-DENT (1-6 months), OkMOM (no wait, but annual event only).
Q: What income qualifies for free dental programs? A: Most require income at or below 150-200% of Federal Poverty Level. For 2025, that’s $23,475 annually ($1,956 monthly) for individuals at 150% FPL.
Q: Can veterans get free dental care in Oklahoma? A: Some can. Of the over 9 million veterans enrolled in VA health care, only about 15% are eligible to receive dental care. Veterans with service-connected dental disabilities, 100% disability ratings, or recent discharge may qualify.
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 OU College of Dentistry (405) 271-6326 or D-DENT (405) 608-3368.
Q: Are there mobile dental clinics in Oklahoma? A: Yes. MobileSmiles Oklahoma utilizes five RV-style mobile dental units that travel across the entire state of Oklahoma delivering free dental care and education. Contact Oklahoma Dental Foundation at (405) 607-4747 for schedules.
Regional Resources by Oklahoma Area
Oklahoma City Metro
Primary Resources:
- OU College of Dentistry: (405) 271-6326
- NSO Dental Clinic: (405) 236-0413
- City Rescue Mission: (405) 232-2709
- D-DENT Central Office: (405) 608-3368
Tulsa Metro
Primary Resources:
- OU College of Dentistry Tulsa: (918) 660-3200
- Eastern Oklahoma Donated Dental Services
- Contact D-DENT for volunteer dentist matching
Rural Oklahoma
Best Options:
- MobileSmiles Oklahoma: Check with local community organizations
- Travel to OU facilities: Transportation assistance may be available
- Local FQHCs: Contact Oklahoma Dental Foundation for referrals
Additional Resources and Verified Contacts
State and Regional Resources
Oklahoma Dental Foundation
- Phone: (405) 607-4747
- Services: Resource guides, MobileSmiles coordination
- Website: okdf.org
Oklahoma Dental Association
- Website: okda.org
- Services: Here we have provided a list of statewide resources for anyone seeking dental care
Oklahoma Health Care Authority (SoonerCare)
- Phone: (800) 987-7767
- Services: Medicaid eligibility and enrollment
- Website: oklahoma.gov/ohca
National Resources
Dental Lifeline Network
- Website: dentallifeline.org
- Services: Donated dental services matching program
211 Oklahoma
- Phone: 2-1-1
- Services: Information on local assistance programs, transportation, emergency aid
Veterans Resources
VA Benefits Hotline
- Phone: (800) 827-1000
- Website: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care
- VADIP Enrollment: 855-460-3302
Emergency and Crisis Resources
Veterans Crisis Line
- Phone: 988, Press 1
- Website: VeteransCrisisLine.net
- Available: 24/7
Poison Control (medication interactions)
- Phone: 1-800-222-1222
- Available: 24/7
Action Plan for Oklahoma Seniors Needing Dental Care
Step 1: Assess Your Situation
- Emergency? Go to ER for severe symptoms, call OU Dentistry for urgent care
- Veteran? Call VA benefits hotline: (800) 827-1000
- Routine care? You have more options and time to research
- Budget available? Consider OU College of Dentistry for reduced-cost care
Step 2: Gather Documentation
- Photo ID and proof of income/residency
- List of current medications (especially blood thinners, bisphosphonates)
- Insurance cards (Medicare, supplement plans, VA cards)
Step 3: Apply in Strategic Order
For all Oklahoma seniors:
- OU College of Dentistry (405) 271-6326
- D-DENT program (if age 60+, low income)
- Local FQHC with sliding fee scale
- OkMOM event (annual, February)
If you’re a veteran:
- VA dental benefits (800) 827-1000
- VADIP insurance (855) 460-3302
- OU College of Dentistry (backup)
Step 4: Follow Up and Plan B
- Call monthly to check status (but be polite)
- Have backup transportation plans for Oklahoma City/Tulsa
- Consider payment plans if free options aren’t immediately available
- Keep copies of all applications and documentation
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)
- 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
Looking Ahead: Potential Changes
What May Improve
- Possible expansion of SoonerCare dental benefits (following other states’ lead)
- Increased federal funding for community health centers
- MobileSmiles Oklahoma program expansion
What to Watch For
- Changes in federal Medicaid dental coverage requirements
- Oklahoma legislative sessions discussing Medicaid expansion
- New dental therapy programs (mid-level providers)
Stay Informed
- Follow Oklahoma Health Care Authority updates
- Check OU College of Dentistry community programs
- Monitor Oklahoma Dental Foundation for new initiatives
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 opportunities.
Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, VA, CMS), state government departments (Oklahoma Health Care Authority), 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: August 2025
- Sources Verified: August 2025
- Next Review: February 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 advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying.
This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available dental care programs.
Sources
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services: Dental Care Coverage
- Oklahoma Health Care Authority: SoonerCare Dental Benefits
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: 2025 Poverty Guidelines
- University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry: Student Care
- D-DENT Oklahoma: Dental Programs
- Oklahoma Mission of Mercy Official Website
- Oklahoma Dental Foundation: MobileSmiles Oklahoma
- NewMouth: Oklahoma Dental Costs 2025
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Dental Care
- VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)
- Oklahoma Health Insurance: Dental Coverage Options
- Medicaid Planning Assistance: Oklahoma Medicaid Eligibility
- Oklahoma Dental Association: Free & Low-Cost Dental Clinics
- Delta Dental VADIP: Veterans Dental Insurance
- DentaQuest: Oklahoma SoonerSelect Dental
Disclaimer: 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. This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. 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. The patient stories included have been anonymized with permission. Medical advice should always be sought from qualified healthcare professionals.
About the Authors