Dental Grants in Missouri
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Missouri Seniors: Complete 2025 Guide
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated:
Medical Review: Content verified against current Missouri Medicaid policies and federal poverty guidelines
Key Takeaways
Bottom Line: Missouri has significantly improved adult Medicaid dental coverage and offers multiple verified affordable care options for seniors. Recent changes make routine dental care more accessible than ever before.
What You Need to Know Right Now:
- Recent Improvement: In 2023, an additional 50,000 Medicaid recipients in Missouri got dental benefits, and 184 new dental offices began accepting Medicaid
- MO HealthNet Coverage: The MO HealthNet Division currently offers comprehensive dental services for children, pregnant women, the blind, and residents of a nursing facility. Coverage for adults is limited but includes routine exams as of 2023
- Income Guidelines: 2025 Federal Poverty Level is $15,650 for individuals; most programs require various percentages for eligibility
- Major Resource: UMKC School of Dentistry offers care at one-third to one-half the cost of private practice
DENTAL EMERGENCY HELP – GET CARE TODAY
If you’re having a dental emergency right now:
Immediate Emergency Resources
1. UMKC School of Dentistry – Emergency Care
- Address: 650 E 25th St, Kansas City, MO 64108
- Phone: (816) 235-2121
- Status: Active with morning (9 AM) and afternoon (1 PM) appointments available daily and emergency walk-ins accepted
- Cost: Our fees average one-third to one-half the cost of private care
2. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Emergency Referral
- Contact: Missouri Coalition for Oral Health
- Phone: (573) 751-5874 (Office of Dental Health)
- Services: Urgent referral to 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
- Important: Cannot perform dental procedures but must provide emergency assessment
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 showing Missouri address
- Medical Info: Current medications list, insurance cards if available
Understanding Missouri’s Improved Dental Care Landscape
Recent Major Improvements in MO HealthNet
Missouri has made significant strides in dental accessibility. The state’s Medicaid plan just started covering routine dental exams for adults. Health experts believe the change will help more people get dental care before a small problem becomes an expensive one. The move came less than a decade after Missouri restored limited adult dental benefits under MO HealthNet, the state’s Medicaid plan. And two years after it significantly increased the rates the plan pays dentists.
Current MO HealthNet Coverage (2025)
Who Gets Comprehensive Coverage:
- Children under 21
- Pregnant women
- Blind individuals
- Nursing facility residents
Adult Coverage (Limited but Improved):
- Routine dental exams (new as of 2023)
- Emergency dental services
- Dental services related to trauma of the mouth, jaw, teeth
- Services for organ transplant clearance
Health Impact: Why This 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
- Respiratory Issues: Oral bacteria can be aspirated into lungs
- Malnutrition: Tooth loss leads to difficulty eating nutritious foods
Source: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association
Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Missouri Seniors
1. University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Dentistry
Current Status (Verified 2025):
- The UMKC School of Dentistry student dental clinic is dedicated to oral health care education and service to the community
- Our student and resident dental clinics offer significantly reduced rates — typically a third to a half of what private clinics charge — while providing the highest standards of care
- The Clinic accepts Missouri Medicaid payments and can set up monthly payment plans for those who are qualified
Services Available:
- Comprehensive dental care: From preventive dental hygiene services to general dentistry and specialty services
- Student clinics: Supervised by distinguished faculty members
- Advanced specialty clinics: Endodontics, orthodontics, oral surgery, periodontics
- Faculty practice: For those wanting experienced dentists
Cost Structure:
- Student clinics: Typically one-third to one-half private practice costs
- Faculty practice: Moderate savings with experienced practitioners
- Payment options: Charges must be paid in-full at the time of treatment, monthly payment plans available with approved credit
Appointment Information:
- Times: Appointments can be made at 9 A.M. or 1 P.M.
- Wait times: Typically 2-4 weeks for initial appointment
- Emergency: Walk-ins accepted for urgent care
Contact Information:
- Main clinic: (816) 235-2121
- Patient accounts: (816) 235-2122
- Address: 650 E 25th St, Kansas City, MO 64108
- Website: dentistry.umkc.edu
2. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program
National Program with Missouri Network: Dentists in Missouri have volunteered to provide free dental care for eligible applicants. If you have a permanent disability, or over 65 years old, or medically compromised, and do not have enough money to pay for dental care, you may qualify for free treatment
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: 65 years or older, OR
- Disability: Permanent disability, OR
- Medical conditions: Chronically ill/medically compromised
- Income: Cannot afford dental treatment
- Insurance: Uninsured or underinsured
Important Notes:
- Due to lengthy wait lists and the availability of dentists, different counties are open for applications at different times
- Military veterans, who meet eligibility guidelines, may still apply to the program even if your county is closed
- With documentation from a physician stating that you cannot receive essential medical treatment due to your dental condition, you can apply for the program even if your county is closed
How to Apply:
- Website: dentallifeline.org/missouri
- Contact: Check website for open counties
- Documentation: Physician referral may be required
3. Missouri Mission of Mercy (MOMOM)
Large-Scale Free Dental Events: The Missouri Mission of Mercy (MOMOM) is a large-scale dental clinic that provides free oral healthcare to patients of all ages who cannot otherwise afford or access care, and is part of a nationwide effort
Historical Impact: In Missouri, since 2011, more than 8,300 dental and general volunteers have provided more than $7.98 million in free care to 12,311 patients
Current Status (2025): We get asked often, “When’s the next MOMOM?” MOMOM clinics are memorable for everyone, and we know both patients and volunteers alike want to know when and where the next event will be. Currently, we have no definite plans to announce. When we do have news, you will find it here
Services When Available:
- Cleanings, fillings, and extractions
- First-come, first-served basis
- Free care for all ages
- No advance registration required
Contact for Updates:
- Website: modental.org/missouri-mission-of-mercy
- Foundation: Missouri Dental Association Foundation
4. Elks Mobile Dental Program
Statewide Mobile Services: Provides free basic dental needs in different regions of Missouri for children and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disability, and Veterans
Eligibility:
- Adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities
- Veterans (regardless of disability status)
- Children and adults in underserved areas
Contact:
- Information: Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
- Phone: (573) 751-5874
Medicare and Insurance Options for Missouri Seniors
Traditional Medicare (Parts A & B)
Reality Check: Most routine dental care falls outside the coverage provided by Original Medicare. Original Medicare may cover some dental services closely tied to other covered medical treatments
Limited Coverage:
- Hospital-based dental procedures requiring medical admission
- Dental services inextricably linked to covered medical procedures
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
2025 Missouri Options: These plans are approved by Medicare and provide a more tailored approach to healthcare. They incorporate benefits beyond what Original Medicare offers, such as dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage
Typical Benefits:
- Preventive care: Routine checkups, routine cleanings, and early intervention
- Basic services: Fillings, extractions
- Annual maximums: Usually $1,000-$3,000
- Cost: Premiums range from about $7 to $50 per month for stand-alone dental coverage
MO HealthNet for Seniors
Eligibility for Seniors:
- Age 65+: Qualify if meet income/asset requirements
- Disabled: Under 65 with qualifying disability
- Income limits: Varies by category and household size
Recent Improvements: Although MO HealthNet still doesn’t cover expensive services like dentures and crowns, the state has gone from being one of the worst in the country for dental access two years ago to a model for other states
Current Missouri Dental Costs (2025 Data)
Verified Pricing Information
| Service | UMKC Student Clinic | Private Practice Range | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning | $40-60 | $90-150 | 50-60% |
| Composite Filling | $80-120 | $150-300 | 60-70% |
| Crown | $400-600 | $800-1,500 | 50-60% |
| Extraction | $75-125 | $150-400 | 50-70% |
| Root Canal | $200-400 | $600-1,200 | 60-70% |
Regional Cost Variations
- Kansas City Metro: Generally higher than state average
- St. Louis Metro: Competitive with Kansas City
- Rural Missouri: Often 10-20% lower than metro areas
- UMKC advantage: Consistent low pricing regardless of location
Veterans Affairs (VA) Dental Benefits for Missouri Seniors
Who Qualifies for Free VA Dental Care
Class I – Service-Connected Dental Conditions: Veterans with dental conditions directly related to military service qualify for comprehensive dental care
Class IV – 100% Disability Rating: Veterans with 100% service-connected disability rating qualify for any dental care needed to maintain a functioning set of teeth
Class II – 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 from a period of active duty of 90 days or more
VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)
Eligibility: Veterans enrolled in VA health care, or the surviving spouse or dependent children of a veteran or servicemember enrolled in the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA (CHAMPVA), may be eligible for VADIP
Coverage Options through Delta Dental and MetLife:
| 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 |
Key Benefits:
- 100% coverage for in-network cleanings, exams and X-rays
- Save up to 40% more on dental fees with in-network providers
- Available throughout the U.S. and territories
Enrollment:
- Phone: 855-460-3302 (Delta Dental)
- Online: Direct enrollment through insurance providers
- Important: Must be enrolled exactly as name appears in VA system
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 | 138% FPL | 200% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Income | |||
| 1 person | $15,650 | $21,597 | $31,300 |
| 2 people | $21,150 | $29,187 | $42,300 |
| 3 people | $26,650 | $36,777 | $53,300 |
| Monthly Income | |||
| 1 person | $1,304 | $1,800 | $2,608 |
| 2 people | $1,763 | $2,432 | $3,525 |
| 3 people | $2,221 | $3,065 | $4,442 |
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines
Missouri-Specific Programs
MO HealthNet Eligibility:
- Adults: Under 65 with household income up to 138% of the poverty level
- Children: Up to age 18 with household income up to 155% of the poverty level
- Pregnant women: Household income not exceeding 201% of the poverty level
DDS Program:
- Generally requires income below 200% Federal Poverty Level
- Varies by county and volunteer dentist availability
Special Populations and Inclusive Care
LGBTQ+ Seniors
Affirming Care Resources:
- UMKC School of Dentistry provides inclusive care with trained providers
- Kansas City and St. Louis metro areas have LGBTQ+-affirming dental professionals
- Contact Missouri Dental Association for referrals to affirming providers
Veteran Seniors
Priority Resources:
- VA Dental Benefits: Check eligibility at (800) 827-1000
- VADIP Insurance: Call 855-460-3302 for enrollment
- DDS Priority: Veterans may apply even when counties are closed to others
- Crisis Support: Veterans Crisis Line: 988, Press 1
Disabled Seniors
Specialized Services:
- MO HealthNet provides comprehensive coverage for blind individuals
- Elks Mobile Dental Program serves adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities
- UMKC has specialists trained in treating patients with disabilities
- DDS program prioritizes disabled seniors regardless of age
Rural Seniors
Access Solutions:
- Mobile services: Elks Mobile Dental Program reaches rural areas
- Transportation: Contact Area Agencies on Aging for assistance
- UMKC outreach: Special programs may serve rural communities
- Travel assistance: Some programs help with transportation to Kansas City
Decision Tree: Which Program Should You Try First?
Start Here: Do you have a dental emergency?
- YES → UMKC emergency walk-ins (816) 235-2121 or Hospital ER for severe symptoms
- NO → Continue to veteran status assessment
Are you a veteran?
- YES → Check VA eligibility first: (800) 827-1000
- NO → Continue to income and location 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 → UMKC School of Dentistry with payment plans
- Over $2,500 → UMKC or private practice with insurance
Where do you live?
- Kansas City metro → UMKC School of Dentistry (first choice)
- Other Missouri areas → UMKC (worth the travel) + DDS application
- Rural areas → Check for Elks Mobile Dental + apply to DDS
Priority Order for Most Missouri Seniors:
- Veterans: VA benefits (if eligible)
- All areas: UMKC School of Dentistry
- Age 65+, low income: DDS program application
- Disabled/developmental: Elks Mobile Dental Program
- Watch for: MOMOM events when announced
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
UMKC School of Dentistry:
- Initial contact: (816) 235-2121 for appointment scheduling
- Wait time: 2-4 weeks for comprehensive exam
- Treatment planning: 1-2 weeks after exam
- Treatment start: Varies by complexity and student schedules
Donated Dental Services:
- County check: Visit dentallifeline.org/missouri to see if your county is open
- Application: Online application with documentation
- Wait time: Varies significantly by county and volunteer availability
- Match process: 2-12 months depending on need and location
MO HealthNet:
- Application: Online at mydss.mo.gov or call (855) 373-4636
- Documentation: Income and residency verification required
- Processing: Typically 30-45 days
- Dental access: Once approved, can access participating providers
Patient Success Stories
“I’m 72 and was putting off dental work because I couldn’t afford $3,000 for crowns. My daughter found out about UMKC dental school. The dental students were amazing – so professional and caring. I got two crowns for under $800 total. The supervising dentist checked everything. I couldn’t be happier with the quality of care.” – Dorothy M., Independence
“My husband is a Vietnam veteran, and we discovered he qualified for full VA dental benefits because of his service-connected disability. He got dentures, several fillings, and cleaning – all completely free. The VA dental team was excellent. We wish we’d known about this years earlier.” – Helen K., St. Louis
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 contracts immediately
- Requests for Social Security numbers without proper 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 verified phone numbers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Missouri Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: MO HealthNet coverage for adults is limited but has improved significantly. As of 2023, routine dental exams are covered, along with emergency services and trauma-related care. Comprehensive coverage is available for blind individuals and nursing facility residents.
Q: How much do dental procedures cost at UMKC? A: UMKC fees average one-third to one-half the cost of private care. For example, crowns cost $400-600 vs. $800-1,500 in private practice, representing 50-60% savings.
Q: Is UMKC School of Dentistry still accepting patients? A: Yes. Morning (9 AM) and afternoon (1 PM) appointments are available daily, and emergency walk-ins are accepted. Call (816) 235-2121 to schedule.
Q: How long are waiting lists for free dental care? A: Varies significantly: UMKC (2-4 weeks), DDS program (2-12 months depending on county), MOMOM (no wait but events currently not scheduled).
Q: What income qualifies for free dental programs? A: Most require various percentages of Federal Poverty Level. For 2025, 100% FPL is $15,650 annually ($1,304 monthly) for individuals. DDS typically requires below 200% FPL.
Q: Can veterans get free dental care in Missouri? A: Some can. Of the over 9 million veterans enrolled in VA health care, only about 15% are eligible to receive dental care. Those with service-connected dental conditions, 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 UMKC for emergency walk-ins (816) 235-2121, or a hospital emergency room for severe symptoms (swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing).
Q: When will the next Missouri Mission of Mercy be held? A: Currently, there are no definite plans announced. Check modental.org/missouri-mission-of-mercy for updates when events are scheduled.
Regional Resources by Missouri Area
Kansas City Metro
Primary Resources:
- UMKC School of Dentistry: (816) 235-2121 (main resource)
- DDS Network: Multiple volunteer dentists in metro area
- VA Medical Center: 4801 Linwood Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64128
St. Louis Metro
Primary Resources:
- Travel to UMKC: Most cost-effective option (3.5-hour drive)
- DDS Network: Active volunteer dentist network
- Local FQHCs: Several federally qualified health centers
- VA Medical Center: 915 N Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63106
Rural Missouri
Best Options:
- UMKC School of Dentistry: Worth the travel for significant savings
- Elks Mobile Dental Program: Serves rural areas periodically
- DDS Program: May have shorter wait times in rural counties
- Transportation assistance: Contact local Area Agencies on Aging
Central Missouri (Jefferson City area)
Resources:
- UMKC School of Dentistry: 2-hour drive to Kansas City
- DDS Program: Check county availability
- Local health departments: May provide emergency referrals
Additional Resources and Verified Contacts
State and Regional Resources
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services – Office of Dental Health
- Phone: (573) 751-5874
- Services: Dental provider referrals, public health clinics information
- Email: oralhealth@health.mo.gov
Missouri Coalition for Oral Health
- Website: oralhealthmissouri.org
- Services: Provider education, Medicaid support, dental facilitator services
Missouri Dental Association
- Phone: (573) 635-7741
- Services: Professional referrals, foundation programs
- Website: modental.org
National Resources
Dental Lifeline Network
- Website: dentallifeline.org/missouri
- Services: Donated dental services matching program
211 Missouri
- Phone: 2-1-1
- Services: Information on local assistance programs, transportation, emergency aid
Veterans Resources
VA Benefits Hotline
- Phone: (800) 827-1000
- Services: Eligibility determination, enrollment assistance
VADIP Enrollment
- Delta Dental: 855-460-3302
- MetLife: Check metlife.com/vadip
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 AM-8 PM Eastern
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 Missouri Seniors Needing Dental Care
Step 1: Assess Your Situation
- Emergency? Go to UMKC emergency walk-ins or ER for severe symptoms
- Veteran? Call VA benefits hotline: (800) 827-1000
- Routine care? UMKC School of Dentistry is your best bet
- Limited budget? UMKC offers payment plans and accepts Medicaid
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, MO HealthNet)
Step 3: Apply in Strategic Order
For all Missouri seniors:
- UMKC School of Dentistry (816) 235-2121
- Check DDS county availability if age 65+ or disabled
- Apply for MO HealthNet if income-eligible
- Watch for MOMOM announcements
If you’re a veteran:
- VA dental benefits (800) 827-1000
- VADIP insurance (855) 460-3302
- UMKC as backup option
Step 4: Follow Up and Plan B
- Call UMKC monthly to check for earlier appointments
- Have transportation plans for Kansas City
- Consider CareCredit or payment plans if free options have long waits
- 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’s Improving
- MO HealthNet continues to expand adult dental benefits
- More dentists accepting Medicaid due to improved reimbursement rates
- UMKC School of Dentistry expanding community outreach
What to Watch For
- Possible restoration of MOMOM events
- Further expansion of MO HealthNet dental coverage
- Federal changes to Medicare dental benefits
- Mobile dental programs expansion
Stay Informed
- Follow Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services updates
- Check UMKC School of Dentistry for new programs
- Monitor Missouri Dental Association for MOMOM announcements
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 (Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services), 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
- Missouri Department of Social Services: MO HealthNet Dental Benefits
- The Beacon: Missouri Medicaid Dental Coverage Expansion
- UMKC School of Dentistry: Dental Clinics
- Missouri Coalition for Oral Health
- Missouri Department of Health: Low-Cost Dental Services
- Missouri Dental Association: Missouri Mission of Mercy
- Dental Lifeline Network: Missouri
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: 2025 Poverty Guidelines
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Dental Care
- VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)
- Missouri Health Insurance: Dental Coverage Options
- Missouri Medicaid Eligibility
- DentaQuest: Missouri Medicaid Dental Coverage
- Delta Dental VADIP: Veterans Plans
- University of Missouri System: Community Connect
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