Dental Grants in Tennessee
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Tennessee Seniors: Complete 2025 Guide
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated:
Medical Review: Content verified against current TennCare policies and federal poverty guidelines
⚡ If You Need Emergency Help
For a dental emergency right now:
Immediate Emergency Resources
1. Hospital Emergency Rooms
- When to go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
- What they do: Emergency rooms must provide pain management and treat life-threatening infections, but cannot perform dental procedures
- Cost: Expensive, but required to provide emergency stabilization
2. TennCare Emergency Dental Services
- Call: DentaQuest at 1-855-418-1622
- Available: 24/7 for TennCare members
- Services: Emergency pain relief, infection treatment
3. Local Health Department Emergency Dental
- Davidson County (Nashville): Lentz Dental Clinic – (615) 340-5601 for limited adult emergencies
- Knox County: (865) 215-5110
- Call each morning at 8:00 AM for same-day emergency appointments
4. Poison Control for Medication Issues
- Phone: 1-800-222-1222
- Available: 24/7 for dental medication interactions
Key Takeaways
Bottom Line: Tennessee expanded adult Medicaid dental benefits in 2023, providing comprehensive dental care to TennCare members at no cost. For seniors without TennCare, verified low-cost and free options exist, though most require patience and proper documentation.
What You Need to Know Right Now:
- Major Change: All adult TennCare members now have comprehensive dental benefits at no cost as of January 1, 2023
- Income Qualifications: Most free programs require household income at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Level ($23,475 annually for individuals in 2025)
- Free Options Available: Donated Dental Services program serves seniors 65+ with no means to pay
- Annual Event: Mid-South Mission of Mercy provides free dental care in Memphis each January (next event: January 23-24, 2026)
Understanding Tennessee’s Dental Care Landscape for Seniors
The Good News: TennCare Expansion
Tennessee made history by expanding adult dental benefits for all TennCare (Medicaid) members beginning January 1, 2023. This means Tennessee seniors who qualify for TennCare now receive comprehensive dental care including:
- Regular exams and cleanings
- X-rays and diagnostic services
- Fillings and crowns
- Dentures and extractions
- Root canals and other restorative care
Reality Check: While this expansion helps many Tennessee seniors, those who don’t qualify for TennCare still face significant barriers to affordable dental care.
Health Connections: Why Dental Care Matters for Seniors
Poor oral health increases risk of serious conditions common in seniors:
- Heart Disease: Gum disease bacteria can enter bloodstream
- Diabetes Complications: Poor oral health makes blood sugar control harder
- Pneumonia: Oral bacteria can be aspirated into lungs
- Malnutrition: Tooth loss affects ability to eat nutritious foods
Source: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association
TennCare (Tennessee Medicaid) Dental Benefits
Who Qualifies for TennCare
TennCare provides healthcare to mostly low-income pregnant women, parents or caretakers of a minor child, children, and individuals who are elderly or have a disability. To qualify, you must meet income and resource limits that vary by household size.
What’s Covered Under TennCare Dental
All adult TennCare members receive dental benefits at no cost for all medically necessary, covered dental services, including:
- Preventive Care: Exams, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments
- Restorative Care: Fillings, crowns, root canals
- Oral Surgery: Extractions, oral surgery procedures
- Prosthetics: Partial and complete dentures
- Emergency Care: Pain relief, infection treatment
How to Access TennCare Dental Services
Step 1: Verify Your Benefits
- Call DentaQuest: 1-855-418-1622
- Online: Find a Dentist at DentaQuest website
Step 2: Choose a Provider To check if your dentist participates with TennCare’s dental plan, visit DentaQuest’s Find a Dentist tool
Step 3: Schedule Your Appointment
- Show your TennCare member ID card
- No separate dental card is issued
TennCare Income Limits (2025)
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,304 | $15,650 |
| 2 people | $1,763 | $21,150 |
| 3 people | $2,221 | $26,650 |
| 4 people | $2,679 | $32,150 |
Note: TennCare has different income limits for different eligibility groups. Seniors may qualify under aged/disabled categories with different limits.
Donated Dental Services Program
How It Works
The Donated Dental Services program through Dental Lifeline Network provides comprehensive dental care to vulnerable adults, including seniors over 65, through a network of volunteer dentists.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must have no means to afford dental care and meet ONE of the following criteria: Over 65 years of age, permanently disabled, or need medically necessary dental care.
What to Expect
- Comprehensive Treatment: Full dental care plans, not just emergency services
- No Emergency Services: Program doesn’t provide emergency care
- No Cosmetic Treatment: Focus is on necessary dental health
- Volunteer-Based: Care provided by volunteer dentists in their offices
Application Process
- Online Application: Visit dentallifeline.org
- Required Documentation: Income verification, medical documentation if applicable
- Evaluation: Caseworker reviews application for eligibility
- Matching: If approved, matched with volunteer dentist in your area
Contact Information:
- Tennessee Coordinator: Lindsay Harold, DDS
- Phone: (615) 983-2601 (local) or (888) 286-3121
- Email: lharold@DentalLifeline.org
Important Limitations
Patients are only eligible to go through the program one time. If you have received treatment in the past, you will not be eligible to qualify due to high need nationwide.
Mid-South Mission of Mercy
What It Is
The Mid-South Mission of Mercy is a two-day free dental clinic held annually in Memphis, providing treatment to the underserved and under-insured. The goal is to treat approximately 1,800 patients and provide $2,000,000 in free dental care.
2026 Event Details
- Dates: Friday, January 23 & Saturday, January 24, 2026
- Location: Bellevue Baptist Church, Memphis, TN
- Hours: Opens at 6:00 AM both days
- Basis: First-come, first-served
Services Provided
Free dental work includes fillings, cleanings, extractions and more. No insurance is needed, and you don’t even need to take an I.D.
What to Expect
- Long Wait Times: Hundreds had stood in line since Thursday afternoon for their chance to be seen Friday
- Early Arrival Essential: People typically start lining up 24-48 hours before
- No Guarantees: Once capacity is reached, no additional patients can be seen
- Volunteer-Staffed: Approximately 1,900 volunteers, both dental and non-dental, make this event happen
Planning for the Event
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive Thursday afternoon for Friday treatment
- Bring Supplies: Camping chairs, blankets, snacks, water
- No Requirements: No income verification, ID, or residency requirements
- Transportation: Arrange reliable transportation to Cordova area
Website: midsouthmissionofmercy.org
Tennessee Public Health Dental Clinics
Statewide Network
Public health dental clinics provide clinical dental services to segments of the population that would otherwise not receive care. Dental clinics housed within local health departments are located in 45 of 89 rural counties and in four of the six metropolitan regions.
Major Public Health Dental Programs
Davidson County (Nashville)
Lentz Dental Clinic
- Phone: (615) 340-5601
- Address: 1015 East Trinity Lane, Nashville, TN 37216
- Services: Comprehensive dental care for children 20 and younger
- Adult Emergency: Limited emergency services for adults 21+
- Payment: TennCare accepted; sliding fee schedule based on income for uninsured patients
Required Documentation:
- Identification for all household members
- Proof of Davidson County residency
- Proof of income for all working household members
Knox County
Dental Services
- Phone: (865) 215-5110
- Spanish Line: (865) 215-5109
- Email: HD.DentalInfo@knoxcounty.org
- Main Office: 140 Dameron Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917
- West Clinic: 9000 Executive Park Drive, Suite A301B, Knoxville, TN 37923
Shelby County (Memphis)
Cawthon Clinic
- Shelby County Public Health Dental Health and Prevention Services provides comprehensive approach to promotion and improvement of oral health
Regional Dental Directors
Tennessee has regional dental directors who oversee oral health services:
- West Tennessee: Dr. Yolanda Anthony-West – (731) 421-6718
- East Tennessee: Dr. Kelly Bailey – (865) 549-5379
- South Central: Dr. Terri Colquitt – (931) 490-8317
- Southeast: Dr. Loretta Matic – (423) 634-5889
How to Find Your Local Clinic
- Visit: tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/oralhealth/dental-care-for-tennesseans.html
- Call: Tennessee Department of Health Oral Health Services – (615) 770-0470
- Interactive Map: Use the Dental Care for Tennesseans map to find clinics by county
Special Programs for Diverse Communities
LGBTQ+ Seniors
Many Tennessee health departments and community health centers provide inclusive care:
- Nashville CARES: Offers comprehensive health services including dental referrals
- Planned Parenthood: Some locations provide dental referrals and health navigation
- Contact local health departments to ask about LGBTQ+-affirming providers
Veteran Seniors
VA Dental Benefits Veterans may qualify for comprehensive dental care through the Department of Veterans Affairs:
Eligibility Classes:
- Class 1: Service-connected dental disability – full dental care
- Class 4: 100% disability rating or Individual Unemployability – full dental care
- Class 2: Recently discharged within 180 days – one-time dental care
Contact Information:
- VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
- Local VA Medical Centers: Memphis, Nashville, Mountain Home (Johnson City)
Disabled Seniors
Donated Dental Services accepts people with disabilities, seniors above 65, and individuals needing urgent dental care to receive comprehensive dental treatments for free.
Additional Resources:
- Tennessee Disability Coalition: Advocacy and resource navigation
- Centers for Independent Living: Often provide health care navigation
Rural Seniors with Limited Access
Challenges in Rural Tennessee:
- Limited number of dentists per capita
- Transportation barriers
- Limited clinic hours
Solutions:
- Telemedicine: Some programs offer virtual consultations
- Transportation Programs: Contact local Area Agencies on Aging
- Mobile Clinics: Some counties have periodic mobile dental services
- Regional Health Departments: Many rural counties have part-time dental services
Contact for Rural Resources:
- Tennessee Rural Health Association: Resource navigation
- Local Area Agencies on Aging: Transportation assistance
Dental Costs in Tennessee (2025 Data)
Typical Costs for Common Procedures
| Service | Tennessee Average | National Range | Payment Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning | $75-$150 | $50-$350 | Insurance, payment plans, sliding scale |
| Composite Filling | $200-$350 | $150-$450 | Most insurance covers 80% |
| Porcelain Crown | $900-$1,400 | $800-$1,600 | Often requires pre-authorization |
| Root Canal | $800-$1,200 | $700-$1,500 | Insurance typically covers 50% |
| Complete Dentures | $1,200-$3,000 | $1,000-$4,000 | Limited insurance coverage |
Payment Options Available
CareCredit Healthcare Financing
- Benefits: Special financing for healthcare
- Warning: High interest rates (26.99% APR) if not paid during promotional period
- Application: Available at most dental offices
Dental Office Payment Plans
- Many private practices offer monthly payment arrangements
- Typically require down payment and credit check
Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Pre-tax dollars can cover dental expenses
- Includes over-the-counter dental products
2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines for Tennessee Programs
Most programs use percentages of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to determine eligibility:
Income Eligibility Quick Reference
| Household Size | 100% FPL | 138% FPL (TennCare) | 150% FPL | 200% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Income | ||||
| 1 person | $15,650 | $21,597 | $23,475 | $31,300 |
| 2 people | $21,150 | $29,187 | $31,725 | $42,300 |
| 3 people | $26,650 | $36,777 | $39,975 | $53,300 |
| Monthly Income | ||||
| 1 person | $1,304 | $1,800 | $1,956 | $2,608 |
| 2 people | $1,763 | $2,432 | $2,644 | $3,525 |
| 3 people | $2,221 | $3,065 | $3,331 | $4,442 |
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2025 Poverty Guidelines
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Before You Apply – Gather 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 | Current medications list, insurance cards if available |
Priority Application Strategy
For TennCare-Eligible Seniors:
- Apply for TennCare first – comprehensive coverage at no cost
- Contact DentaQuest for provider network
- Schedule regular preventive care to avoid emergencies
For Non-TennCare Eligible Seniors:
- Apply to Donated Dental Services (online application)
- Contact local health department for sliding-scale services
- Plan for Mid-South Mission of Mercy (January 2026)
- Research payment plans at private practices
Typical Timeline Expectations
Donated Dental Services:
- Application process: 2-4 weeks
- Matching with dentist: 2-6 months (varies by location)
- Treatment start: Depends on volunteer availability
Health Department Clinics:
- Initial appointment: 2-8 weeks
- Emergency services: Often same-day or next-day
Mid-South Mission of Mercy:
- Annual event: Plan 6-12 months ahead
- Treatment: Immediate during event weekend
Medicare and Insurance Options for Tennessee Seniors
Traditional Medicare Limitations
Reality Check: Medicare Parts A and B do not cover routine dental care. The only exceptions:
- Hospital-based dental procedures requiring medical admission
- Dental services related to covered medical treatments
Medicare Advantage Plans in Tennessee
2025 Dental Coverage: For adults who purchase stand-alone dental coverage through the exchange in Tennessee, premiums in 2025 range from about $8 to $41 per month.
Typical Coverage Limits:
- Annual maximums: $1,000-$3,000
- Waiting periods for major services
- Network restrictions
Marketplace Dental Plans
Tennessee uses HealthCare.gov for individual dental plan purchases:
- Stand-alone dental plans available
- Some medical plans include embedded dental coverage
- Premium tax credits may apply based on income
Patient Success Stories
“I’m 78 and hadn’t seen a dentist in 10 years because I couldn’t afford it on Social Security. When Tennessee expanded dental benefits for TennCare, I finally qualified. I got my first cleaning in a decade, three fillings, and a crown – all at no cost to me. The DentaQuest dentist was patient and explained everything. Now I go for regular checkups every six months.” – Martha K., Nashville
“My husband and I attended the Mission of Mercy in Memphis last year. We arrived Thursday night and waited in line with hundreds of other people. It was like a community – people shared food and stories. On Friday morning, we both got multiple extractions and cleanings. The volunteer dentists were amazing. It saved us thousands of dollars.” – Robert and Linda T., Jackson
Note: Patients gave permission to share stories; names changed for privacy
Warning Signs and Red Flags
Dental Emergency Symptoms – Seek Immediate Help
- Facial swelling affecting breathing or swallowing
- Fever with dental pain (indicates serious infection)
- Severe bleeding that won’t stop
- Trauma affecting multiple teeth
- Signs of spreading infection
Avoid These Dental Scams
- Door-to-door dental services
- “Free” dental work in parking lots without income verification
- Pressure to sign contracts immediately
- Requests for Social Security numbers before legitimate verification
- Mobile dental units without proper licensing verification
How to Verify Legitimate Programs
- Check state licensing for dentists and facilities
- Verify through established organizations (Tennessee Department of Health, Dental Lifeline Network)
- No upfront fees for applications to legitimate programs
- Clear physical addresses and established phone numbers
- Income verification required for sliding-scale programs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does Tennessee Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: Yes! As of January 1, 2023, all adult TennCare members have comprehensive dental benefits at no cost for medically necessary services.
Q: How do I apply for TennCare if I’m a senior? A: Apply online at tenncareconnect.tn.gov, by phone at (855) 259-0701, or at your local Department of Human Services office. Seniors may qualify under aged/disabled categories.
Q: What if I don’t qualify for TennCare but need dental care? A: Apply for Donated Dental Services if you’re 65+, contact your local health department for sliding-scale services, and consider attending the Mid-South Mission of Mercy in January.
Q: How much does the Mission of Mercy cost? A: The Mission of Mercy is completely free. No insurance is needed, and you don’t even need to take an I.D.
Q: Can I get help with transportation to dental appointments? A: Contact your local Area Agency on Aging or call 211 for transportation assistance programs. Some TennCare plans include medical transportation benefits.
Q: What should I do for a dental emergency if I have no insurance? A: Go to a hospital emergency room for severe symptoms. For urgent dental pain, call DentaQuest at (855) 418-1622 if you have TennCare, or contact your local health department.
Q: Are there dental schools in Tennessee that offer lower-cost care? A: The University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in Memphis provides reduced-cost care through its student clinic programs. Contact them at (901) 448-6000.
Q: How long do I have to wait for free dental care? A: Varies significantly: TennCare members can often get appointments within 2-4 weeks, Donated Dental Services may take 2-6 months, health departments typically 2-8 weeks for routine care.
Q: What medications should I tell my dentist about? A: Always inform your dentist about blood thinners (Warfarin, Eliquis), bisphosphonates (Fosamax, Boniva), diabetes medications, and blood pressure medications, as these can affect dental treatment.
Resources by Region
East Tennessee
Knox County Health Department
- Dental Services: (865) 215-5110
- Address: 140 Dameron Ave, Knoxville, TN 37917
University of Tennessee College of Dentistry – Knoxville Programs
- Contact Memphis main campus: (901) 448-6000
Middle Tennessee
Davidson County – Lentz Dental Clinic
- Phone: (615) 340-5601
- Address: 1015 East Trinity Lane, Nashville, TN 37216
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
- Dental residency programs may offer services
- Contact: (615) 322-5000
West Tennessee
Shelby County Health Department
- Cawthon Clinic: Dental services available
- Regional Office: (901) 544-7200
University of Tennessee College of Dentistry – Memphis
- Main Campus: (901) 448-6000
- Student Clinics: Reduced-cost care available
Additional Resources and Verified Contacts
State Resources
Tennessee Department of Health – Oral Health Services
- Phone: (615) 770-0470
- State Dental Director: Dr. Crystal Manners
- Website: tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/oralhealth
TennCare Customer Service
- Phone: (855) 259-0701
- Website: tn.gov/tenncare
DentaQuest (TennCare Dental Provider)
- Phone: (855) 418-1622
- Website: dentaquest.com
National Resources
Dental Lifeline Network
- Tennessee Coordinator: Lindsay Harold, DDS
- Phone: (615) 983-2601 or (888) 286-3121
- Website: dentallifeline.org/tennessee
211 Tennessee
- Phone: 2-1-1
- Services: Information on local assistance programs, transportation, emergency aid
Veterans Resources
VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System
- Nashville: (615) 327-4751
- Memphis: (901) 523-8990
- Mountain Home: (423) 926-1171
VA Benefits Hotline
- Phone: 1-800-827-1000
- Website: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care
Emergency Resources
Poison Control (medication interactions)
- Phone: 1-800-222-1222
- Available: 24/7
Crisis and Mental Health Support
- Tennessee Crisis Line: (855) 274-7471
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
Looking Ahead: What’s Changing in Tennessee
Positive Developments
- TennCare Dental Expansion Success: Early data shows increased dental utilization among Tennessee adults
- Telehealth Integration: Some programs exploring virtual dental consultations
- Community Health Center Growth: Federal funding supporting expansion of dental services
Challenges Remain
- Provider Shortages: Rural areas still lack sufficient dental providers
- Wait Times: High demand sometimes creates longer wait times for appointments
- Transportation Barriers: Geographic distances to care remain a challenge
How to Stay Informed
- Follow Tennessee Department of Health updates
- Subscribe to TennCare newsletters
- Monitor Dental Lifeline Network for program changes
- Check Mid-South Mission of Mercy website for annual updates
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 Tennessee Department of Health, TennCare administration, DentaQuest provider network, Dental Lifeline Network, 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 service availability.
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 medical or financial 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. Medical advice should always be sought from qualified healthcare professionals. Program availability and funding are subject to change based on federal and state legislation.
This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available dental care assistance programs.
About the Authors