Dental Grants in Michigan
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Michigan Seniors: Complete 2025 Guide
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Last updated:
If You Need Emergency Help
Having a dental emergency right now? Here’s immediate help:
1. My Community Dental Centers (MCDC) – Emergency Line
- Phone: Call your nearest MCDC location
- Status: 28 locations statewide, accepts Medicaid
- Emergency services: Available during business hours
2. University of Michigan School of Dentistry Emergency
- Phone: (734) 763-6933
- Address: 1011 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Cost: About 50% less than private practice
3. University of Detroit Mercy Dental School
- Phone: (313) 494-6700
- Emergency services: Available during clinic hours
- Cost: 25-50% less than private dentists
4. Hospital Emergency Rooms
- When to go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
- Reality check: Hospitals can only provide pain medication and antibiotics – they cannot perform dental procedures
Key Takeaways
Bottom line: Michigan offers several paths to affordable dental care for seniors, but none are instant solutions. Most programs have wait times of 2-18 months. Here’s what you need to know:
- Michigan Medicaid DOES cover adult dental care as of April 2023 – a major improvement
- No income requirements for some programs – the University dental schools accept anyone
- Expect wait times – free programs typically have 2-6 month waits
- Documentation required – income verification and ID needed for most assistance programs
- Veterans have special options – VA dental benefits plus discounted insurance available
Understanding Michigan’s Dental Landscape for Seniors
The Reality Check
Michigan has made significant improvements to dental care access since 2023. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has expanded dental benefits for adult Medicaid beneficiaries and increased rates for dental providers. This $85.1 million investment means many seniors now have coverage they didn’t have before.
However, challenges remain. Not all seniors qualify for Medicaid, and even with coverage, finding dentists who accept it can be difficult in rural areas.
Why Dental Care Matters for Seniors
Poor oral health significantly impacts overall health, especially for seniors:
- Heart disease risk: Gum disease bacteria can enter the bloodstream
- Diabetes complications: Gum infections make blood sugar harder to control
- Medication interactions: Many senior medications cause dry mouth, increasing cavity risk
- Nutrition problems: Missing teeth make it harder to eat healthy foods
Medicaid Coverage for Michigan Seniors (Major 2023 Changes)
What Changed in April 2023
To improve access to dental services, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has expanded dental benefits for adult Medicaid beneficiaries and increased rates for dental providers. For the first time in years, Michigan Medicaid now covers:
Newly Covered Services for Adults 21+:
- Routine exams and cleanings
- X-rays and diagnostic services
- Fillings and basic restorative care
- Extractions
- Limited periodontal services
- Emergency dental care
Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors
Regular Medicaid for Seniors:
- Income limit: $2,901/month for individuals ($34,812 annually)
- Asset limit: $9,660 for individuals
- Must require nursing home level of care OR qualify through disability
Healthy Michigan Plan (for ages 19-64):
- Income limit: 133% of federal poverty level (about $18,000 for a single person)
- Available until age 65, then must transition to Medicare
How to Access Medicaid Dental Benefits
All Medicaid members ages 21 and older and Healthy Michigan Plan members ages 19 and older are covered through Blue Cross Complete. To find a dentist:
- Visit: Blue Cross Complete Provider Directory
- Call: Customer Service at 1-800-228-8554
- For dental specifically: Call 1-844-320-8465
Major Free and Low-Cost Programs
1. Michigan Donated Dental Services (DDS)
The Michigan Donated Dental Services (DDS) program has provided more than $25 million in free comprehensive dental treatment since 1995. This program connects seniors with volunteer dentists.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age 65+ OR permanently disabled OR medically compromised
- Income at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Level ($31,300 for individuals in 2025)
- No dental insurance or inadequate coverage
- Need for extensive dental care
Reality Check: Through the Michigan Dental Association’s network of generous volunteer dentists, care has been provided to more than 6,800 of Michigan’s most vulnerable citizens since 1995, but wait times are currently 12-18 months.
How to Apply:
- Website: smilemichigan.com/resources/michigan-donated-dental-services
- Phone: (517) 346-9455
- Required: Physician referral confirming medical need
2. My Community Dental Centers (MCDC)
My Community Dental Centers offers services for all ages! Our focus is on providing personalized treatment plans that work for you and your loved ones. With 28 locations statewide, MCDC is Michigan’s largest provider of affordable dental care.
What Makes MCDC Special:
- Accepts all forms of Medicaid
- Sliding fee scale for uninsured patients
- No one turned away for inability to pay
- Locations throughout Michigan, including rural areas
Income Requirements for Sliding Scale:
| Household Size | 100% FPL | 150% FPL | 200% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $15,650 | $23,475 | $31,300 |
| 2 people | $21,150 | $31,725 | $42,300 |
Services Offered:
- Routine cleanings and exams
- Fillings and crowns
- Extractions and oral surgery
- Dentures and partials
- Emergency care
How to Schedule:
- Find locations: mydental.org
- Call central number: Information available on website
- Wait time: Usually 2-8 weeks for routine care
3. University Dental Schools
Michigan has two dental schools offering reduced-cost care supervised by licensed faculty.
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
We set our dental student fees at approximately half of what a private dentist in this region would charge for the same procedure.
Key Information:
- Phone: (734) 763-6933
- Address: 1011 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Cost: About 50% of private practice fees
- No income requirements – anyone can receive care
Process:
- Screening visit: Initial evaluation and x-rays required
- Assignment: You’re paired with a dental student
- Supervision: Everything a student does must be evaluated and approved by a clinic instructor
- Time: Appointments take longer due to teaching requirements
University of Detroit Mercy Dental School
Key Information:
- Phone: (313) 494-6700
- Cost: 25-50% less than private dentists
- Services: Full range including specialty care
- Orthodontics: (313) 494-6731 (children under 16 only, $3,335 flat fee)
4. Mission of Mercy Michigan
The Michigan Dental Association Foundation Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic treats patients of all ages from elderly to children. It addresses the most urgent needs of patients with the goal of serving the under-served and uninsured in Michigan.
2026 Event Details:
- Dates: June 11-14, 2026
- Location: K-Wings Event Center, Kalamazoo
- Cost: Completely free
- Services: We offer cleanings, fillings, extractions, and dental education
What to Expect:
- Patients will leave the clinic with a follow-up dental care plan, a list of dentists accepting new patients, and plenty of community resources
- Patients will be treated on a first-come, first-served basis with hundreds of patients typically lining up outside the night before
- Long wait times – plan for a full day
Veteran-Specific Resources
VA Dental Benefits
VA provides quality and compassionate dental care to over 500,000 eligible Veterans at over 200 locations across the country. Michigan veterans may qualify for free dental care if they meet specific criteria.
Who Qualifies for Free VA Dental Care:
- Veterans with service-connected dental conditions
- Veterans with 100% disability rating
- Former POWs
- Veterans receiving VA pensions for non-service connected disabilities
Class I Eligibility (Comprehensive Care):
- Any dental condition that is service-connected and compensable
- Dental conditions rated as service-connected even if 0% rating
Class II Eligibility (One-Time Care):
- Recently discharged (within 180 days) veterans
- Must have incomplete dental treatment noted on discharge papers
VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)
If you’re not eligible for free VA dental care, VADIP can help you buy private dental insurance at a reduced cost.
VADIP Plan Options:
| Plan Type | Annual Maximum | Monthly Premium Range |
|---|---|---|
| Enhanced | $1,000 | $15-25 |
| Comprehensive | $1,500 | $25-35 |
| Prime | $2,500 | $35-45 |
How to Enroll:
- Delta Dental: (855) 460-3302
- MetLife: Available through VA website
- Eligibility: Must be enrolled in VA healthcare
Special Michigan Veteran Events
Marquette Veterans FREE Dental Care Day – October 16, 2025, at My Community Dental Centers in Marquette. This annual event provides free dental care specifically for veterans.
Programs for Special Populations
LGBTQ+ Seniors
While no Michigan programs specifically target LGBTQ+ seniors, several resources ensure inclusive care:
Recommended Providers:
- My Community Dental Centers – Non-discrimination policies in place
- University dental schools – Inclusive patient care training
- Covenant Community Care (Detroit) – LGBTQ+-friendly FQHC
Advocacy Resource:
- PFLAG Michigan chapters can provide referrals to LGBTQ+-friendly dental providers
Disabled Seniors
Michigan Donated Dental Services Priority: The DDS program specifically serves permanently disabled individuals regardless of age. Volunteer dental laboratories also help the program provide once-in-a-lifetime desperately needed care to patients who are elderly, have a permanently disabled or chronic illness.
Accessible Care Options:
- My Community Dental Centers – ADA-compliant facilities
- University of Michigan – Special needs dentistry programs
- Dr. Mary Fisher is able to provide comprehensive dental care through portable services – Mobile dentistry for seniors in care facilities
Rural Michigan Seniors
Challenges:
- Limited provider availability in Upper Peninsula and northern counties
- Transportation barriers to major cities
Solutions:
- My Community Dental Centers: Has locations in rural areas including:
- Marquette (Upper Peninsula)
- Gaylord (Northern Michigan)
- Multiple other small-town locations
- Telehealth consultations: Some dental schools offer remote consultations
- Mobile services: Limited availability through community health programs
Native American Seniors
Tribal Health Services:
- Each federally recognized tribe in Michigan may have dental services
- Contact tribal health departments directly for availability
- Indian Health Service may provide coverage for eligible tribal members
Michigan Tribes with Potential Dental Services:
- Bay Mills Indian Community
- Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians
- Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians
- Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe
- Little River Band of Ottawa Indians
Program Comparison Table
| Program | Cost | Wait Time | Income Requirement | Age Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid | $0 | 2-6 weeks | <$2,901/month | None |
| Michigan DDS | $0 | 12-18 months | <200% FPL | 65+ or disabled |
| MCDC | Sliding scale | 2-8 weeks | Up to 200% FPL | None |
| UM Dental School | 50% discount | 4-12 weeks | None | None |
| Detroit Mercy | 25-50% discount | 2-8 weeks | None | None |
| Mission of Mercy | $0 | Next event 2026 | None | None |
Income Eligibility Reference (2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines)
These 2025 FPL income numbers are used to determine eligibility for Medicaid and CHIP:
| 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 |
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Determine Your Best Options
If you have Medicaid/Medicare:
- Start with Blue Cross Complete dental network
- Apply to Michigan DDS as backup
- Consider university dental schools for complex care
If you’re uninsured:
- Apply for Medicaid first (may take 45 days)
- Contact MCDC for sliding scale care
- Consider university dental schools
- Apply to Michigan DDS if eligible
If you’re a veteran:
- Check VA eligibility first
- Consider VADIP insurance
- Look into veteran-specific events
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
For Most Programs:
- Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Social Security card
- Proof of income (last 3 months):
- Social Security statements
- Bank statements
- Tax returns
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease)
- Insurance cards if you have any
Step 3: Apply in Priority Order
Priority 1: Free Programs
- Medicaid (if eligible)
- Michigan Donated Dental Services
- VA benefits (if veteran)
Priority 2: Low-Cost Programs
- My Community Dental Centers
- University dental schools
- Community health centers
Step 4: Plan for Wait Times
While Waiting:
- Practice excellent oral hygiene
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
- Rinse with warm salt water for infections
- Avoid hard foods that could cause more damage
- Seek medical care if you develop fever or facial swelling
Warning Signs and Red Flags
Dental Emergency Symptoms – Seek Help Immediately
- Severe facial swelling affecting breathing or swallowing
- Fever with dental pain (indicates serious infection)
- Uncontrolled bleeding from mouth or gums
- Trauma affecting multiple teeth
Avoid These Scams
- Door-to-door dental services – Never legitimate
- “Free” dental work with no screening – Real programs always verify eligibility
- Pressure to sign up immediately – Legitimate programs give you time to decide
- Requests for Social Security numbers without verification – Only give to verified programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Michigan Medicaid really cover dental care for seniors now? A: Yes! The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has expanded dental benefits for adult Medicaid beneficiaries as of April 2023. This includes routine care, fillings, and extractions.
Q: How long do I have to wait for free dental care? A: It varies significantly:
- Medicaid dentists: 2-6 weeks
- Michigan DDS: 12-18 months
- University dental schools: 4-12 weeks
- My Community Dental Centers: 2-8 weeks
Q: What income qualifies me for help? A: Most programs use Federal Poverty Level percentages. For 2025, 200% FPL is $31,300 annually for individuals ($2,608 monthly).
Q: Can I get dentures through these programs? A: Yes, most programs offer dentures:
- Medicaid covers basic dentures
- University dental schools offer dentures at reduced cost
- Michigan DDS can provide comprehensive denture care
- MCDC offers dentures on sliding scale
Q: Are the university dental schools safe? A: Absolutely. Everything a student does must be evaluated and approved by a clinic instructor. Students are closely supervised by licensed dentists at every step.
Q: What if I’m not a veteran but need immediate help? A: Contact My Community Dental Centers for emergency care, visit university dental school emergency services, or go to a hospital emergency room for severe symptoms.
Q: Do these programs serve rural areas? A: MCDC has 28 locations throughout Michigan including rural areas. University dental schools are in Ann Arbor and Detroit. Transportation assistance may be available through Area Agencies on Aging.
Q: Can I use these programs if I have some insurance but it doesn’t cover dental? A: Yes, most programs will still help. Medicare alone doesn’t disqualify you from assistance programs since Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental care.
Resources by Region
Southeast Michigan (Detroit Metro)
University of Detroit Mercy Dental School
- (313) 494-6700
- 2700 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Detroit
My Community Dental Centers – Multiple Locations
- Dearborn Heights, Southgate, Warren, and more
- Find locations at mydental.org
Covenant Community Care (FQHC)
- (313) 554-1095 – 5716 Michigan Ave, Detroit
- (313) 626-2600 – 20901 Moross, Detroit
West Michigan
My Community Dental Centers – Grand Rapids Area
- Multiple locations in Kent County
- Kalamazoo location available
Michigan Dental Association Foundation
- Mission of Mercy 2026 in Kalamazoo
Central Michigan
My Community Dental Centers – Lansing Area
- Multiple mid-Michigan locations
Lansing Community College Dental Hygiene Clinic
- (517) 483-1458
- Reduced-rate cleanings ($25 for seniors)
Northern Michigan
My Community Dental Centers – Northern Locations
- Gaylord and other northern communities
Upper Peninsula
My Community Dental Centers – Marquette
- 1110 West Washington Street, Marquette
- Annual Veterans Free Dental Care Day
Contact Information and Helpful Numbers
Primary Resources
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
- Phone: 1-800-642-3195
- TTY: 1-866-501-5656
- Email: beneficiarysupport@michigan.gov
Michigan Dental Association
- Phone: (517) 372-9070
- Website: michigandental.org
My Community Dental Centers
- Website: mydental.org
- To find nearest location: Use website locator
Michigan Donated Dental Services
- Phone: (517) 346-9455
- Website: smilemichigan.com/resources/michigan-donated-dental-services
Emergency and Crisis Resources
Dental Emergency (Business Hours)
- My Community Dental Centers: Call nearest location
- University dental schools: See numbers above
Medical Emergency
- 911 for life-threatening emergencies
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 (medication interactions)
Veterans Crisis Line
- Phone: 988, Press 1
- Available: 24/7
Transportation Assistance
Area Agencies on Aging
- Website: michigan.gov/aginganddisability
- Services: May provide transportation to dental appointments
Public Transportation
- Many Michigan cities offer senior discounts on public transit
- Some Medicaid plans cover medical transportation
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: 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 financial assistance programs.
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. Medical advice should always be sought from qualified healthcare professionals.
About the Authors