Dental Grants in Massachusetts
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Massachusetts Seniors: Complete 2026 Guide
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated:
Medical Review: Content verified against current MassHealth policies and federal poverty guidelines
If You Need Emergency Dental Help
If you’re having a dental emergency right now:
Emergency Resources – Get Care Today
1. Harvard School of Dental Medicine Emergency
- Address: 188 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
- Phone: (617) 432-1434
- Note: Cambridge office temporarily closed due to electrical fire – all care at Boston location
- Services: Urgent dental care, pain management, emergency treatment
2. Hospital Emergency Rooms
- When to Go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
- What They Do: Emergency stabilization and pain management only – they cannot perform dental procedures
- Cost: Expensive, but required to provide emergency assessment
3. MassHealth Emergency Dental Coverage
- For MassHealth Members: Emergency dental services covered
- Call: MassHealth Dental Customer Service (844) 643-3685
- Website: massdhp.org
- Find providers: Use online dentist finder
Emergency Documentation Checklist
- Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- MassHealth card (blue card if enrolled)
- Insurance cards
- Medical information (current medications, allergies)
Key Takeaways
Bottom Line: Massachusetts has excellent dental coverage through MassHealth with restored adult benefits as of 2021, plus outstanding dental school programs and specialized senior services.
What You Need to Know Right Now:
- MassHealth: Comprehensive dental coverage for adults restored in January 2021, including fillings, extractions, root canals, and crownsâ¹
- Three Top Dental Schools: Harvard, Boston University, and Tufts all offer reduced-cost care with specialized programs
- Coverage Reach: MassHealth Dental serves more than 2 million children, adults, seniors, and individuals with disabilitiesâ
- No Referrals Required: MassHealth members can see any in-network dentist without referrals
Reality Check: Massachusetts is one of the best states for senior dental care access, with comprehensive Medicaid coverage and world-class dental schools providing affordable alternatives.
Understanding Massachusetts MassHealth Dental Coverage
Comprehensive Adult Coverage – Major 2021 Restoration
In January 2021, the MassHealth Dental Program restored adult benefits after previous cutbacksâ³. Massachusetts now provides extensive dental coverage for adults.
Services Covered for Adults (21+):
- Preventive care: Dental checkups, cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, x-rays
- Restorative care: Fillings, crowns, bridges
- Endodontic services: Root canals (except wisdom teeth)
- Periodontal services: Deep cleanings with prior authorization, gum disease treatment
- Oral surgery: Extractions, oral surgery procedures
- Prosthetics: Partial and complete dentures
- Emergency care: Pain relief, treatment of infections
Important Notes:
- Dental implants not covered by MassHealth
- Bone grafts may be covered as medical services with prior authorization
- Prior authorization required for some adult services like deep cleanings
Special Coverage Options
Senior Care Organizations (SCO):
- If you are 65+ and enrolled in an SCO through MassHealth, the SCO plan covers your dental services.
- Contact your SCO directly for dental services.
One Care Plans:
- For individuals with disabilities who have both MassHealth and Medicare.
- The One Care plan covers dental services directly.
Provider Enrollment & Administration:
- Note on Administration: As of April 2025, DentaQuest no longer handles MassHealth enrollment. BeneCare is the established vendor for these services.
- All provider enrollment continues to be processed through BeneCare.
Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Massachusetts Seniors
1. MassHealth (Massachusetts Medicaid)
Current Status: Massachusetts expanded Medicaid and provides comprehensive dental coverage with restored adult benefits.
Who Qualifies:
- Massachusetts residents
- Varies by program type and income level
- Broad income eligibility – example: senior earning $1,001/month qualifies for dental servicesâ¶
What You Get:
- Comprehensive dental services at no cost for most procedures
- Network of dentists statewide
- No referrals required for specialty care
- Transportation assistance for eligible members
How to Apply:
- Online: Massachusetts Health Connector (mahealthconnector.org)
- Phone: 1-800-841-2900
- Find Dentists: Call (844) 643-3685 or visit massdhp.org
Contact Information:
- MassHealth Dental Customer Service: (844) 643-3685
- TDD/TTY: 711
- Website: massdhp.org
2. Harvard School of Dental Medicine
Why Choose Harvard Dental:
- Two care options: Teaching Practice (affordable) and Faculty Group Practice (efficient)â·
- State-of-the-art facility in Boston’s Longwood Medical Area
- Accepts MassHealth, Delta Dental Premier, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Massachusetts
Teaching Practice (Most Affordable):
- Dental care provided by faculty-supervised student dentistsâ⁸
- Lowest fees available
- Longer appointment times due to educational nature
- Comprehensive services: exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, whitening
Faculty Group Practice:
- Care by experienced Harvard faculty dentists
- Standard appointment times and pricing
- Private practice setting within academic environment
Services Available:
- General dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics
- Endodontics, orthodontics, dental hygiene
- Comprehensive care from skilled teams
Insurance and Accessibility:
- Accepts MassHealth and various insurance plansâ⁹
- Language support in 35 languages
- Validated parking available
- Patient Portal for online management
Contact Information:
- Phone: (617) 432-1434
- Teaching Practice: Extension 1
- Faculty Group Practice: Extension 2
- Address: 188 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
3. Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine
BUMP UP Program:
- Boston University MassHealth Patient Upgrade Program (BUMP UP)¹â°
- High-quality care at lowest out-of-pocket costs
- Must present valid MassHealth ID card on service date
Services Provided:
- Comprehensive dental care
- General dentistry and specialty services
- Student clinics with faculty supervision
Contact Information:
- Address: 100 East Newton Street, Boston, MA 02118
- Phone: (617) 358-3900
4. Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
General Information:
- Accepts MassHealth in student clinics¹¹
- Comprehensive dental care for adults and children
- Faculty-supervised student dentists
Special Programs:
- Tufts Dental Facilities (TDF) provides comprehensive care for adults and children with developmental disabilities¹²
- 7 clinics throughout Massachusetts
- Specialized services for complex needs
Contact Information:
- Address: One Kneeland Street, Boston, MA 02111
- Phone: Check website for current numbers
5. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program
Current Status: Active program serving Massachusetts since 2005 with 75 volunteer dentists and 35 laboratories¹³
Impact:
- 173 patients served since 2005
- $900,000 worth of treatments provided
- Recent MDS Foundation grant of $24,000 to serve 40 individuals¹â´
Who Qualifies:
- Age 65 or older, OR permanently disabled, OR medically compromised
- Cannot afford necessary dental treatment
- Must exhaust other options (MassHealth, dental schools) first
- Need comprehensive dental work
County Restrictions:
- Some counties not accepting new applications at this time
- Check current status before applying
Application Process:
- Online Application: dentallifeline.org/apply-for-help/application
- Phone: Contact Dental Lifeline Network at (303) 534-5360
6. Veterans Dental Benefits in Massachusetts
VA Boston Healthcare System Locations:
Primary Medical Centers:
- Jamaica Plain VA Medical Center: 150 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130
- Brockton VA Medical Center: 940 Belmont Street, Brockton, MA 02301
- West Roxbury VA Medical Center: 1400 VFW Parkway, West Roxbury, MA 02132
Community-Based Outpatient Clinics:
- Boston, Framingham, Lowell, Plymouth, and Quincy
VA Dental Services:
- Comprehensive dental care for eligible veterans
- Dental screenings, cleanings, X-rays, fillings
- Specialty procedures: root canals, restorations, dentures
- Routine and advanced periodontal care
VA Dental Eligibility Classes:
| VA Class | Who Qualifies | Coverage Level |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Service-connected dental disability | Any needed dental care |
| Class 2 | Recently discharged (within 180 days) | One-time comprehensive care |
| Class 4 | 100% disability rating or unemployability | Any needed dental care |
| Class 5 | Vocational rehabilitation enrollees | Care related to rehab goals |
Contact Information:
- VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
- Jamaica Plain VA: (617) 232-9500
- Brockton VA: (508) 583-4500
- West Roxbury VA: (617) 323-7700
Regional Programs by Massachusetts Area
Boston Metro Area
Harvard School of Dental Medicine (Primary Option)
- Longwood Medical Area location
- Two practice options: Teaching and Faculty
- Comprehensive services and specialties
Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine
- BUMP UP program for MassHealth patients
- Located in South End medical area
Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
- Downtown Boston location
- Specialized disability services through TDF
Central Massachusetts
Community Health Connections (Leominster)
- Received $12,155 MDS Foundation grant for dental equipment
- Community health center with dental services
Quinsigamond Community College (Worcester)
- Dental hygiene clinic open during academic year (September-May)
- Address: 670 West Boylston Street, Worcester, MA 01606
- Phone: (508) 854-4306
- Services by dental hygiene students under supervision
Western Massachusetts
Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires
- Provides free care to income-qualified uninsured adults
- Received $25,000 MDS Foundation grant for Pittsfield clinic expansion
- Building pipeline of dental student volunteers
VA Central Western Massachusetts Health Care System
- Serves western part of state
- Full VA dental services for eligible veterans
Statewide Programs
MassHealth Dental Network
- Comprehensive provider network statewide
- Use massdhp.org to find local dentists
Donated Dental Services
- Volunteer dentists throughout Massachusetts
- County availability varies
Special Population Resources
LGBTQ+ Seniors
VA Boston Healthcare
- Provides compassionate care for LGBTQ+ Veterans
- Safe, sensitive environment for all veterans
Academic Medical Centers
- Harvard, BU, and Tufts all provide culturally competent care
- Non-discrimination policies in place
Disabled Seniors
Tufts Dental Facilities (TDF)
- 7 clinics statewide specializing in comprehensive dental care for adults and children with developmental disabilities
- Specialized equipment and trained staff
MassHealth Enhanced Services
- Coverage for medically necessary procedures
- Prior authorization available for complex cases
Rural and Underserved Seniors
Health Safety Net (HSN)
- Available to uninsured and underinsured residents with family income under certain percentage of federal poverty level
- Limited dental services through community health centers
Mobile Programs
- ForsythKids mobile dental program serves populations with challenges accessing care
- Various community outreach initiatives
Veteran Seniors
Comprehensive VA Services
- Multiple locations throughout Massachusetts
- Enhanced benefits for service-connected conditions
- VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) for additional coverage
Current Dental Costs in Massachusetts (2026 Data)
Typical Private Practice Costs (Boston Area)
| Service | Massachusetts Average | National Range |
|---|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning | $150-$250 | $75-$300 |
| Composite Filling | $250-$400 | $150-$450 |
| Porcelain Crown | $1,200-$2,000 | $800-$1,700 |
| Root Canal (Molar) | $1,200-$2,000 | $700-$1,600 |
| Complete Dentures | $1,500-$4,000 | $1,000-$3,500 |
| Dental Implant | $3,000-$6,000 | $2,000-$6,000 |
Dental School Pricing Comparisons
Harvard Teaching Practice:
- Lowest fees available²â´
- Predoctoral Practice has lowest fees
- Advanced Graduate fees higher but still below private practice
Boston University BUMP UP:
- Lowest out-of-pocket costs for MassHealth patients²âµ
- High-quality care at academic medical center
Tufts Student Clinics:
- Reduced fees for comprehensive care
- Specialty services available
Income Eligibility Quick Reference (2026)
| Program | Income Guidelines | Example |
|---|---|---|
| MassHealth | Varies by program type | Senior earning $1,001/month qualifies |
| DDS Program | Cannot afford dental care | Must exhaust other options first |
| Health Safety Net | Under certain % of FPL | Uninsured/underinsured residents |
Action Plan: Step-by-Step Guide for Massachusetts Seniors
Step 1: Assess Your Situation
- Emergency? Call Harvard Dental (617) 432-1434 or hospital ER for severe symptoms
- Veteran? Call VA benefits: 1-800-827-1000 first
- Have MassHealth? Use it first – comprehensive coverage available
- Need to apply for MassHealth? Start online application process
Step 2: Apply for MassHealth First
- Best Option: Most Massachusetts seniors should start here
- Online: Massachusetts Health Connector (mahealthconnector.org)
- Phone: 1-800-841-2900
- Processing Time: Varies, but coverage can be retroactive
Step 3: Find MassHealth Dentists
- Website: massdhp.org (use “Find a Dentist” tool)
- Phone: (844) 643-3685 for assistance
- No referrals required for specialty care
Step 4: Consider Academic Medical Centers
If You Want Reduced-Cost Care:
- Harvard Teaching Practice: (617) 432-1434 ext. 1
- Boston University BUMP UP: (617) 358-3900
- Tufts Student Clinics: Check current contact information
For Specialized Needs:
- Disabilities: Tufts TDF program
- Complex Medical Conditions: Academic medical centers
Step 5: Backup Options
If Not Eligible for MassHealth:
- Health Safety Net: Through community health centers
- Donated Dental Services: Apply if eligible
- Private dental insurance: Through Health Connector
If Need Additional Services:
- Dental schools: For comprehensive care at reduced costs
- CareCredit: Healthcare credit card for payment plans
Step 6: Gather Required Documents
- Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport)
- Social Security card and award letter
- Income verification (pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements)
- Proof of residency (utility bills, lease agreement)
- Medical information (medications, conditions)
- Insurance cards (if applicable)
Medicare and Insurance Options for Massachusetts Seniors
Medicare Limitations
- Traditional Medicare: Does not cover routine dental care
- Medicare Advantage: Some plans include dental benefits
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
- Dental Blue 65 Plans: Specifically for seniors 65+
- Preventive Plans: Coverage for routine exams, cleanings, X-rays
- Network Access: Check provider participation
Massachusetts Health Connector Dental Plans
- Stand-alone dental plans: Available for purchase
- Family and adult options: Various coverage levels
- Pediatric requirements: Essential health benefit for children
MassHealth for Medicare Recipients
- Dual Eligibility: Can have both Medicare and MassHealth
- Comprehensive Coverage: MassHealth covers dental care that Medicare doesn’t
- Senior Care Options (SCO): Special program for 65+ with both coverages
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Massachusetts Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: Yes! MassHealth provides comprehensive dental coverage for adults, including preventive care, fillings, extractions, root canals, and crowns. Adult benefits were restored in January 2021.
Q: Do I need referrals for dental specialty care with MassHealth? A: No. MassHealth members can see any in-network dentist or specialist without referrals.
Q: How much do dental schools in Massachusetts cost? A: Dental schools offer significant savings. Harvard’s Teaching Practice has the lowest fees available, Boston University’s BUMP UP provides lowest out-of-pocket costs for MassHealth patients.
Q: Are there free dental clinics in Massachusetts? A: Yes, including dental school clinics for qualifying patients, Donated Dental Services program, and community health centers through the Health Safety Net.
Q: What should I do for a dental emergency with no insurance? A: Call Harvard Dental Medicine at (617) 432-1434, or go to a hospital emergency room for severe symptoms like facial swelling or fever.
Q: Does Massachusetts have Mission of Mercy dental events? A: Massachusetts doesn’t currently host Mission of Mercy events, but neighboring states like Connecticut do. Check for special community dental events.
Q: Can veterans get free dental care in Massachusetts? A: Some can, depending on their VA benefit class. Veterans with service-connected dental disabilities or 100% disability ratings qualify for comprehensive care.
Q: How do I find a dentist that accepts MassHealth? A: Use the online provider directory at massdhp.org or call MassHealth Dental Customer Service at (844) 643-3685.
Warning Signs and Red Flags
Dental Emergency Symptoms – Seek Immediate Help
- Facial swelling affecting breathing or swallowing
- Fever with dental pain (sign of serious infection)
- Severe bleeding that won’t stop
- Trauma involving multiple teeth
- Severe, uncontrollable pain
Avoid These Dental Scams
- Door-to-door dental services
- “Free” dental work with no legitimate program verification
- Pressure to sign up immediately without clear information
- Mobile dental units in parking lots without proper credentials
- Requests for payment upfront for “free” services
Legitimate Program Characteristics
- Proper licensing and credentials
- Clear information about costs, coverage, and wait times
- Established physical addresses and verifiable phone numbers
- Income verification required for means-tested programs
- Proper referral processes and documentation
Resources
Primary Contact Numbers
Emergency Dental Care:
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine: (617) 432-1434
- MassHealth Dental Emergency: (844) 643-3685
MassHealth (Medicaid):
- Customer Service: 1-800-841-2900
- Dental Customer Service: (844) 643-3685
- TDD/TTY: 711
- Website: massdhp.org
Academic Medical Centers:
- Harvard Dental: (617) 432-1434
- Boston University Dental: (617) 358-3900
- Tufts Dental: Check current contact information
Free/Charitable Programs:
- Donated Dental Services: dentallifeline.org/massachusetts
- Health Safety Net: Information through community health centers
Veterans:
- VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
- Jamaica Plain VA: (617) 232-9500
- Brockton VA: (508) 583-4500
- West Roxbury VA: (617) 323-7700
Government Resources
Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services
- Website: mass.gov
- MassHealth information and applications
Massachusetts Health Connector
- Website: mahealthconnector.org
- Health and dental insurance marketplace
Massachusetts Dental Society
- Website: massdental.org
- Professional resources and public information
National Resources
Dental Lifeline Network
- Website: dentallifeline.org
- National donated dental services program
Health Resources and Services Administration
- Website: findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov
- Locate federally qualified health centers
Veterans Affairs
- Website: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care
- Complete VA dental benefits information
Local Resources by Region
Boston Area:
- Massachusetts Dental Society Foundation
- Harvard Dental Center resources
- Academic medical center patient services
Central Massachusetts:
- Community Health Connections (Leominster)
- Quinsigamond Community College Dental Hygiene Clinic
Western Massachusetts:
- Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires
- VA Central Western Massachusetts
About This Guide
Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors
This guide has been carefully researched using publicly available government resources and official program websites. We systematically review federal and state program information to create comprehensive, accurate guides for older Americans seeking dental care assistance.
Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, VA Boston Healthcare System, Massachusetts Dental Society, and verified healthcare organizations.
Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough online verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status, verifying contact information, and confirming eligibility requirements and current availability.
Information Currency:
- Last Updated: January 2026
- Sources Verified: January 2026
- Next Review: May 2026
Important Note: Dental programs can change without advance notice. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with program administrators before applying.
Found an Error? If you discover outdated information or additional programs that should be included, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org.
Sources
- Massachusetts Dental Society: MassHealth Overview
- BeneCare MassHealth Dental Program
- Massachusetts Legal Help: Where to get low-cost dental services
- Mass.gov: Learn about MassHealth dental benefits
- Mass.gov: MassHealth Enrollment Important Information (April 2025)
- Dr. Dental: The Comprehensive Guide for MassHealth Dental
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine: Patients
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine: Teaching Practice
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine: New Patients
- DisabilityInfo.org: Affordable Dental Care
- Yelp: Top Dental Schools in Boston, MA
- NewMouth: Top Dental Schools to Get Cheap or Free Dental Work
- Grants for Seniors: Dental Grants in Massachusetts
- Massachusetts Dental Society: Grant Recipients
- Dental Lifeline Network: Massachusetts Dental Care Programs
- VA Boston Health Care: Jamaica Plain VA Medical Center
- Pemberton Dental: What Dental Treatments Does MassHealth Cover?
- VA Boston Health Care: Health Services
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: 2025 Poverty Guidelines
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. Dental program details, eligibility requirements, income limits, and contact information can change frequently. Always verify current information directly with the relevant organization before making decisions about your dental care. Income limits and program availability are subject to change based on federal and state legislation and funding availability. All costs and statistics cited are from the sources indicated and were accurate as of the publication date shown. Medical advice should always be sought from qualified healthcare professionals.
This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available dental care assistance programs.
About the Authors