Dental Grants in Arkansas
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Arkansas Seniors: Complete 2026 Guide
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Last updated:
Content verified against current Arkansas Medicaid policies and federal poverty guidelines
Quick Help Summary
Bottom Line:Arkansas continues to provide limited Medicaid dental coverage for adults (capped at $500 annually), but the system has shifted to a Fee-For-Service model. While verified free and low-cost options exist for seniors, success requires patience, proper paperwork, and knowing which programs fit your situation.
What You Need to Know Right Now:
- Arkansas Reality:Adult Medicaid dental benefits are still capped at $500 per year with no rollover. As of late 2024/2025, the state transitioned back to “Fee-For-Service,” meaning you now use your standard Medicaid ID card for dental visits (not a separate Delta Dental or MCNA card).
- Free Options Available:Donated Dental Services (DDS) serves eligible seniors and those with disabilities. Note that wait times are significant, and they do not provide emergency treatment.
- Income Matters: The 2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) is $15,960 for individuals. Most charitable programs require income at 200% or less of this amount.
- Documentation Required: Photo ID, income verification, and residency proof are strictly required for most applications.
DENTAL EMERGENCY HELP – GET CARE TODAY
If you’re having a dental emergency right now:
Immediate Emergency Resources
1. UAMS Delta Dental of Arkansas Foundation Oral Health Clinic
- Address: 4301 W. Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
- Phone: (501) 686-7000
- Status: Active clinic with licensed faculty dentists and residents, accepts Medicaid
- Services: Full range of dental care including emergency treatment
2. Hospital Emergency Rooms
- When to Go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
- What They Do: Hospital emergency departments must provide stabilization and pain management under federal law
- Cost: Expensive, but required to assess and control dental pain emergencies
3. Community Health Centers with Dental Services
- East Arkansas Family Health Center: Multiple locations, sliding fee scale
- Boston Mountain Rural Health Center: Walk-ins welcome, Medicaid accepted
- WelcomeHealth: Little Rock area, serves low-income patients
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, lease agreement, or mail with Arkansas address
- Medical Info: Current medications list, insurance cards if available
Understanding Arkansas’s Dental Care Landscape for Seniors
The Recent Medicaid Changes
Arkansas ended its Medicaid managed care dental program in November 2024, returning to fee-for-service. This means:
- You now use your regular Medicaid ID card for dental services
- No more Delta Dental or MCNA cards needed
- Adult dental benefits remain limited to $500 per calendar year
- Coverage includes cleanings, x-rays, fillings, and some emergency care
Why Dental Care Matters More as You Age
Poor oral health increases risk of serious conditions common in seniors:
- Heart Disease: Bacteria from gum disease can enter bloodstream
- Diabetes Complications: Gum disease makes blood sugar harder to control
- Pneumonia: Mouth bacteria can be breathed into lungs
- Nutrition Problems: Tooth loss makes eating healthy foods difficult
Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Arkansas Seniors
1. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program
How It Works: Volunteer dentists provide comprehensive dental care through the Dental Lifeline Network . Patients are matched with dentists in their area for treatment that is free of charge. This is often the best option for major restorative work (like dentures or crowns) that Medicaid does not fully cover.
Who Qualifies:
- Age: 65 or older, OR
- Disability: Have a permanent disability, OR
- Medical Necessity: Have a chronic, serious medical condition where dental health is medically necessary (eg, you need an organ transplant or chemotherapy but cannot proceed due to dental infection).
- Financial Status: Must lack the funds to pay for care (typically no savings or disposable income).
Current Counties Accepting Applications (Early 2026): As of early 2026, applications are ONLY being accepted from residents of the following counties: Arkansas, Benton, Bradley, Carroll, Clark, Crawford, Dallas, Franklin, Garland, Hempstead, Howard, Logan, Madison, Montgomery, Poinsett, Union, and Washington. (Note: Counties like Pulaski and Saline are currently closed to general applications due to long waitlists.)
Application Process:
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government: dentallifeline.org/arkansas
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Special Exceptions (Apply Anytime): Even if your county is listed as “Closed” above, you may still apply if:
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You are a US Veteran , OR
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You have a Physician’s Referral stating you cannot receive essential medical treatment (like heart surgery or cancer treatment) until your dental infection is resolved.
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Reality Check: Wait times are considerable (often 6–12 months). This program is not for emergency pain relief.
2. UAMS Dental Clinics (Little Rock Area)
Delta Dental of Arkansas Foundation Oral Health Clinic:
- Location: 4301 W. Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205
- Phone: (501) 686-7000
- Services: Full range of dental care by licensed faculty dentists and residents, accepts Arkansas Medicaid
- Cost: Medicaid accepted, sliding scale available
UAMS Dental Hygiene Student Clinic:
- Location: Freeway Medical Tower, 5800 W. 10th St., Suite 501, Little Rock
- Services: Preventive care including cleanings, x-rays, and fluoride treatments at low or no cost
- Special Programs: Free Fall for Smiles and Summer for Smiles clinics for children and seniors
3. Community Dental Clinic (Fort Smith Area)
Community Dental Clinic (Sebastian & Crawford Counties):
- Phone: (479) 782-6021
- Email: [email protected]
- Who It Serves: Low-income residents of Sebastian and Crawford counties who cannot afford dental care
- Services: Volunteer licensed dentists provide extractions, fillings, limited root canals, and occasional crowns. Dentures available through Delta Dental Grant when funds available
- Special Feature: Digital diagnostic equipment and four operatories
4. Arkansas Mission of Mercy (ArMOM)
Services Available:
- Cleanings, fillings, extractions
- Total estimated value exceeds $1 million annually, averaging over $1,000 per person treated
- No appointments needed – first come, first served
Important Details:
- No eligibility, insurance, or income requirements
- Doors open at 6 a.m. both days
- Locations vary throughout Arkansas each year
- Patients encouraged to bring food and water
5. Lyon College School of Dental Medicine (Operational as of 2026)
Historic Development: Arkansas’s first dental school is now officially open. The inaugural class of 80 students began their studies in June 2025 , with approximately 43% of students hailing from Arkansas . This marks a major shift in the state’s oral health landscape, as these students are now training to serve local communities.
Future Patient Care (What You Can Expect in 2026):
- Location: The dental school is located at 5 Allied Drive in Little Rock’s Riverdale neighborhood (in the renovated Riverfront Plaza).
- Clinic Status (Early 2026): The 100-chair patient clinic is constructed, but full-scale public treatment is in the “Coming Soon” phase. Because the first class is still completing their initial training (simulation labs), student-led patient care is expected to ramp up as these students advance in their program (likely late 2026 or 2027).
- Impact on Costs: Once fully operational, this clinic will be a primary source of low-cost dental care for the public, offering fees significantly lower than private practice to cover materials and overhead.
- Action Step: You can currently join their Patient Interest List on their website to be notified when they start booking appointments.
Medicare and Insurance Options for Arkansas Seniors
Traditional Medicare Reality Check
Medicare does not cover routine dental services like cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, dentures, or implants. Limited exceptions include:
- Dental services for hospital inpatients when required due to underlying medical condition
- Dental care “inextricably linked” to Medicare-covered procedures like organ transplants or cancer treatment
Arkansas Dental Insurance Options
Marketplace Stand-Alone Plans:For 2026, premiums for individual adult dental coverage through Arkansas’s health insurance marketplace (HealthCare.gov) generally range from $15 to $66 per month . (Note: Pediatric dental coverage is required for children 18 and under, often included in health plans, but adult dental is optional and sold separately.)
Major Insurers Available:
- Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Plans typically range from ~$24 to $45/mo)
- Delta Dental of Arkansas (Individual plans start around ~$22/mo for basic coverage)
- Humana (Value plans start as low as ~$14/mo; comprehensive plans ~$43+/mo)
- BEST Life (Often available on the Marketplace)
Important 2026 Nuance: When buying a “stand-alone” dental plan on the Marketplace, pay close attention to waiting periods . Many 2026 plans still enforce a 6–12 month waiting period for major work (like root canals or crowns), meaning the plan will not pay for those procedures until you have paid premiums for that full duration.
Arkansas Medicaid Dental Coverage Details
What’s Covered Under Current System
The $500 Annual Limit Reality
Dental services are limited to $500 per year for adults. Money does not roll over to the next year
What This Means:
- Most seniors will exceed $500 with routine care and one major procedure
- After $500, you pay full private-pay rates
- Planning becomes critical to maximize benefit
Income Eligibility Quick Reference (2026 Guidelines)
Federal Poverty Level Percentages
| Household Size | 100% FPL | 150% FPL | 200% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Income | |||
| 1 person | $15,960 | $23,940 | $31,920 |
| 2 people | $21,640 | $32,460 | $432,280 |
| Monthly Income | |||
| 1 person | $1,330 | $1,995 | $2,660 |
| 2 people | $1,803 | $2,705 | $3,607 |
Source: US Department of Health and Human Services 2026 Poverty Guidelines (Effective Jan 13, 2026)
Most Free Programs Use: 150%–200% FPL for eligibility
Patient Cost Scenarios: What Arkansas Seniors Actually Pay
Scenario 1: Mary, Age 68, Little Rock
Situation: Needs cleaning and two fillings, has Medicare and Social Security income of $1,600/month
- Medicaid eligible: Yes (income below 138% FPL in Arkansas)
- Cost with Medicaid: $0 for cleaning and fillings (within $500 limit)
- Best strategy: Use Medicaid benefit early in year, save for major work later
Scenario 2: James, Age 72, Fort Smith Area
Situation: Needs extractions and dentures, income $2,000/month, no Medicaid
- Qualifies for: Community Dental Clinic (Sebastian County resident)
- Estimated cost: $0 for extractions, possible dentures if grant funds available
- Wait time: Call (479) 782-6021 for current scheduling
Scenario 3: Linda, Age 75, Rural Arkansas
Situation: Needs root canal and crown, income $2,100/month
- Best options: UAMS clinics or apply to Donated Dental Services
- UAMS cost: Sliding scale, likely 30-50% less than private practice
- DDS option: Free if accepted, but significant wait time
Community Health Centers with Dental Services
Statewide Options
East Arkansas Family Health Center:
- Multiple locations throughout eastern Arkansas
- Accepts Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and uninsured on sliding fee scale
- Services include routine and emergency dental care
Boston Mountain Rural Health Center:
- Walk-ins welcome at any location, most insurances and Medicaid accepted, sliding fee programs available
- Additional locations at bmrhc.net/contact-us
Harmony Health Clinic (Little Rock):
- Free medical and dental clinic serving uninsured and underserved in Central Arkansas at no cost
- Focus on homeless and less fortunate in Pulaski County area
Regional Resources by Area
| Region | Primary Resources | Phone Numbers |
|---|---|---|
| Little Rock/Central | UAMS clinics, Harmony Health Clinic | (501) 686-7000 |
| Fort Smith/Western | Community Dental Clinic | (479) 782-6021 |
| Eastern Arkansas | East Arkansas Family Health Centers | Varies by location |
| Northern Arkansas | Boston Mountain Rural Health | Check bmrhc.net |
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Before You Apply – Document Checklist
| Document Type | Specific Examples | Where to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | Driver’s license, state ID, passport | Arkansas DMV offices |
| Income Verification | Social Security award letter, bank statements (3 months) | Social Security Administration online |
| Residency Proof | Utility bills, lease agreement, mail | Utility companies, landlords |
| Medical Information | Medication list, medical conditions summary | Your doctor’s office |
Application Timeline Expectations
Donated Dental Services:
- Online application: Complete at dentallifeline.org/arkansas
- Physician referral: Required within 30 days
- Matching process: Can take 6-12 months or longer
- Treatment begins: When matched with volunteer dentist
UAMS Clinics:
- Call for appointment: (501) 686-7000
- Initial consultation: Usually within 2-4 weeks
- Treatment planning: Discussed at first visit
- Payment arrangements: Made before treatment begins
Community Health Centers:
- Call specific center: See regional table above
- Income documentation: Required for sliding scale
- Appointment scheduling: Usually within 1-2 weeks
- Ongoing care: Many offer dental home relationship
Special Considerations for Arkansas Seniors
Medication Interactions – Critical Warnings
Always inform your dentist if you take:
- Blood thinners (Warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto) – may require procedure modifications
- Bisphosphonates (Fosamax, Boniva) – can affect jaw bone healing after extractions
- Diabetes medications – affect infection fighting and healing
- Blood pressure medications – may interact with dental anesthetics containing epinephrine
Transportation Challenges
Arkansas Area Agencies on Aging:
- Phone: (501) 682-2441 (State Office)
- Services: May provide or coordinate transportation to dental appointments
- Coverage: Available in most Arkansas counties
Medical Transportation:
- Some insurance plans cover medical transportation for dental visits
- Contact your insurance company to verify coverage
Arkansas-Specific Resources and Contacts
State Resources
Arkansas Department of Human Services – Medicaid Dental:
- ConnectCare Helpline: 1-800-275-1131 (TDD 1-800-285-1131) for finding dentists and eligibility questions
- Online Provider Search: humanservices.arkansas.gov/u/dentist
Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care:
- Phone: 1-877-650-2362 for Medicaid dental program questions
Delta Dental of Arkansas Foundation:
- Website: deltadentalar.com/resources
- Resource Directory: Comprehensive list of dental care resources statewide
Emergency and Crisis Resources
Arkansas Crisis Center:
- Phone: 988
- Services: 24/7 crisis support including help during severe dental pain
211 Arkansas:
- Dial: 2-1-1
- Services: Information on local assistance programs, emergency aid, transportation
Key Takeaways for Arkansas Seniors
Most Important Facts:
✓ Arkansas Medicaid covers dental but limited to $500/year – plan carefully for major work
✓ Donated Dental Services is completely free but has significant wait times
✓ UAMS clinics provide quality care at reduced rates with Medicaid accepted
✓ Community health centers offer sliding scale fees based on income
✓ New dental school at Lyon College will expand future options
✓ Mission of Mercy events provide free care annually with no income requirements
✓ Transportation assistance available through Area Agencies on Aging
✓ Medication interactions are serious – always inform dental providers
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Arkansas Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: Yes, but coverage is limited to $500 per calendar year for adults. This covers cleanings, x-rays, fillings, and some emergency care. Children have unlimited medically necessary coverage.
Q: How long do I have to wait for free dental care through Donated Dental Services? A: Wait times vary significantly based on volunteer dentist availability in your area. It can range from several months to over a year. Apply as early as possible.
Q: Can I get dental care at UAMS if I’m not from Little Rock? A: Yes, the UAMS clinics serve all Arkansans and accept Medicaid patients. You may need to factor in travel costs, but the savings can be substantial for major work.
Q: What should I do if I need emergency dental care and have no money? A: Go to a hospital emergency room for severe symptoms like facial swelling or difficulty swallowing. For urgent dental pain, call UAMS at (501) 686-7000 or your nearest community health center.
Q: Are there any free dental events in Arkansas? A: Yes, Arkansas Mission of Mercy provides free 2-day dental clinics annually with no eligibility requirements. Locations vary each year. Monitor local news and Delta Dental of Arkansas announcements.
Q: Can veterans get special help with dental care in Arkansas? A: Veterans can apply to Donated Dental Services even if their county is closed to new applications. Veterans with service-connected dental conditions may also qualify for VA dental benefits.
Action Plan for Arkansas Seniors Needing Dental Care
Immediate Steps (This Week)
- If you have Medicaid: Find a provider at humanservices.arkansas.gov/u/dentist
- Apply to Donated Dental Services: dentallifeline.org/arkansas
- Contact UAMS for appointment: (501) 686-7000
- Gather required documents: ID, income proof, residency verification
Medium-term Planning (This Month)
- Research community health centers in your area using regional resource table
- Contact Area Agency on Aging for transportation assistance: (501) 682-2441
- Check eligibility for other assistance programs through 2-1-1
- Plan Medicaid benefits if eligible – use strategically within $500 limit
Long-term Strategy (3-12 Months)
- Monitor Mission of Mercy announcements for free annual events
- Build relationship with chosen dental provider for ongoing care
- Practice preventive care to avoid expensive emergency treatment
- Stay informed about Lyon College dental school patient clinic development
Looking Ahead: Arkansas Dental Care Improvements
Positive Developments
- Lyon College School of Dental Medicine opened 2025 and will expand patient services
- UAMS received $30,000 renewed grant from Delta Dental Foundation to support underserved dental care
- Increased focus on rural health initiatives may expand mobile dental programs
What to Watch For
- Lyon College dental school patient clinic opening (expected within 2-3 years)
- Possible changes to Arkansas Medicaid dental coverage limits
- Federal Medicare dental coverage proposals (though unlikely in near term)
Verified Contact Directory
Free and Low-Cost Programs
- Donated Dental Services: dentallifeline.org/arkansas
- UAMS Oral Health Clinic: (501) 686-7000
- Community Dental Clinic (Fort Smith): (479) 782-6021
- Arkansas Medicaid ConnectCare: 1-800-275-1131
Emergency Resources
- Crisis Support: 988
- Local Resources: Dial 2-1-1
- Transportation Assistance: (501) 682-2441 (Area Agencies on Aging)
State Resources
- Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care: 1-877-650-2362
- Delta Dental Foundation Resources: deltadentalar.com/resources
Disclaimer: Dental program details, eligibility requirements, income limits, and contact information can change frequently based on funding availability and policy modifications. 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. Wait times and program availability vary significantly due to demand and volunteer capacity. All costs and statistics cited are from the sources indicated and were accurate as of the publication date shown. Income limits and program availability are subject to change based on federal and state legislation and funding availability.
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