Dental Grants in Florida
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Florida Seniors: Complete 2025 Guide
Last Updated: August 2025 | Medical Review: Content verified against current Florida Medicaid policies and federal guidelines
EMERGENCY DENTAL HELP – GET CARE TODAY
If you’re having a dental emergency right now:
Immediate Emergency Resources
1. University of Florida Student Oral Surgery Clinic (Gainesville)
- Address: 1395 Center Dr, Gainesville, FL 32610
- Phone: (352) 273-6705
- Type: Walk-in urgent care facility
- Coverage: Medicaid accepted, payment due at registration
- Services: Emergency extractions, pain relief, swelling treatment
2. UF Health Dental Centers (Statewide)
- Gainesville: (352) 273-6700
- Hialeah: Check UF Health website for current contact
- St. Petersburg: Check UF Health website for current contact
- Naples: Pediatric emergency services
- Coverage: Wide variety of insurance and Medicaid plans accepted
3. Hospital Emergency Rooms
- When to Go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
- What They Do: Under federal law, hospitals must provide emergency assessment and pain management – they cannot perform dental procedures
- Cost: Expensive, but required to provide emergency stabilization
Emergency Documentation Checklist
- Required ID: Photo identification (driver’s license or state ID)
- Income/Insurance Proof: Medicaid card, Medicare card, or income documentation
- Medical Info: Current medications list, especially blood thinners
- Payment: Cash, check, or credit card (some clinics don’t accept payment plans)
Key Takeaways
Bottom Line: Florida operates one of the most comprehensive Medicaid dental programs in the nation, with all Medicaid recipients enrolled in dental plans providing extensive coverage. Additional free and low-cost options exist through the largest annual dental event (Florida Mission of Mercy) and multiple dental schools.
What You Need to Know Right Now:
- Comprehensive Coverage: All Florida Medicaid recipients are automatically enrolled in dental plans providing extensive coverage for adults and children
- Annual Free Event: Florida Mission of Mercy 2025 will be held March 21-22 in Daytona Beach, serving nearly 2,000 patients at no cost
- Veterans Support: New Florida Veterans Dental Program launched by Florida Veterans Foundation provides statewide dental care
- Dental Schools: University of Florida and other dental schools offer care at 30-50% below private practice fees
Understanding Florida’s Dental Care Landscape for Seniors
Florida’s Comprehensive Medicaid Dental Program
Florida has implemented one of the most extensive Medicaid dental programs in the United States. As of December 1, 2018, the Florida Legislature directed the Agency for Health Care Administration to enroll most Medicaid recipients into comprehensive dental plans.
What This Means for Seniors:
- All people on Medicaid must enroll in a dental plan
- Recipients ages 21 and older are eligible for additional dental services beyond basic emergency care
- Pregnant women 21 and older receive expanded services for healthy pregnancy
- Coverage includes both preventive and restorative care
Florida’s Dental Workforce and Challenge
Florida has a workforce of more than 14,000 active dentists, with more than 300 dental school students graduating annually. However, sixty-six of Florida’s 67 counties lack sufficient dental professionals and almost half of the state’s population does not have dental insurance.
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, contributing to cardiovascular problems
- Diabetes Complications: Gum disease makes blood sugar harder to control
- Cancer Care: One-third of all cancer patients develop mouth complications, making dentists critical parts of cancer care teams
- Malnutrition: Tooth loss leads to difficulty eating nutritious foods
Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Florida Seniors
1. Florida Medicaid Dental Plans
Current Status (2025): All people on Medicaid must enroll in a dental plan. Dental plans provide all Medicaid dental services for children and adults.
Available Dental Plans:
- DentaQuest: Serving eligible residents across Florida with comprehensive coverage
- Humana Healthy Horizons: Medicaid dental plan option
- MCNA Dental: No longer serves Florida Medicaid as of February 1, 2025
Services Covered for Adults 21+:
- Emergency dental services
- Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)
- Restorative care (fillings, crowns when medically necessary)
- Extractions
- Some prosthetic services
Eligibility and Application:
- Income must meet federal poverty guidelines for Medicaid eligibility
- Individuals qualifying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) automatically qualify
- Apply through Florida Department of Children and Families
- Contact Medicaid Choice Counseling: 1-877-711-3662
Finding Providers:
- Call your assigned dental plan for provider directories
- Use online provider search tools at dental plan websites
- May have $3.00 copayment per day for non-emergency visits at FQHCs
2. University of Florida College of Dentistry
Statewide Network: The UF College of Dentistry operates the largest network of dental education clinics in Florida, serving patients from all 67 counties.
Location and Services:
| Location | Phone | Services | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gainesville (Main) | (352) 273-6700 | Comprehensive care, all specialties | 30-50% below private practice |
| Hialeah | Contact main number | Full range adult/child services | Resident fees ~80% of private |
| St. Petersburg | Contact main number | Full range adult/child services | Resident fees ~80% of private |
| Naples | Contact main number | Pediatric specialty services | Resident supervision |
| Yulee (Nassau County) | Contact main number | General and specialty care | Faculty and resident care |
Types of Care Available:
- Student Clinics: Dental students under faculty supervision, lowest cost, 30-50% below private practice
- Resident Clinics: Dental residents (already licensed dentists), fees ~80% of private practice
- Faculty Practice: Expert faculty care, fees comparable to private practice
Special Programs:
- Student Oral Surgery (SOS) Clinic: Walk-in urgent care in Gainesville
- We Care Physicians Network: Free program for qualified Alachua County residents
- Oral Medicine Clinic: Specialized care for cancer patients and complex oral conditions
Coverage and Payment:
- Accepts wide variety of insurance plans and Medicaid
- CareCredit accepted for payment plans
- Online bill payment available
- UF employees can use payroll deduction
3. Florida Mission of Mercy (FLA-MOM)
2025 Event Details: The tenth Florida Mission of Mercy will be held at Mainland High School in Daytona Beach, FL March 21-22, 2025.
Event Information:
- Location: Mainland High School, 1255 W. International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
- Dates: March 21-22, 2025
- Hours: Doors open at 7 AM both days
- Capacity: Nearly 2,000 patients expected
- Services: First-come, first-served basis
What to Expect:
- Florida Mission of Mercy (FLA-MOM) is the state’s largest dental clinic that provides dental care to any patient at no cost to them, with the goal of serving the under-served and uninsured in Florida – those who would otherwise go without care
- Treatment limited to one quadrant with most critical need
- Plan to be on-site 3-5 hours
- Full panoramic X-ray included
- No insurance filing – all services completely free
Veterans First Initiative: The Florida Mission of Mercy Veterans First Initiative will provide FREE dental care to military veterans beginning on March 20, 2025. Veterans can pre-register for priority care.
Program Impact: Since 2014, FLA-MOM has had a tremendous statewide impact: $17 million in donated dental services, 15,668 patients served, 104,510 procedures performed.
4. Donated Dental Services Program
Program Overview: Donated Dental Services (DDS) is a program jointly funded by the Foundation and Dental Lifeline Network • Florida. DDS provides access to free, comprehensive dental care for those who are disabled, elderly, or medically fragile that cannot afford necessary treatment or receive public aid.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age 65 or older, OR permanently disabled, OR medically compromised
- Cannot afford dental treatment
- Have no other way to get dental care
- Need comprehensive treatment (not just cleaning)
- US citizen or legal resident
How It Works:
- Volunteer dentists provide comprehensive care at no cost
- Patients matched with dentists in their area
- Each patient receives one complete treatment plan
- Dental labs also volunteer services
Application Process:
- Contact Dental Lifeline Network
- Complete application and eligibility screening
- Wait for volunteer dentist assignment
- Commitment to complete entire treatment plan
Florida Veterans Dental Benefits
Florida Veterans Dental Care Grant Program
New Program (2025): The Veterans Dental Care Grant Program is to be established under the new rule and the purpose of the Program is to help Florida veterans enjoy greater access to routine dental care through The Florida Veterans Foundation.
Program Details:
- Administered by Florida Veterans Foundation (FVF)
- Funded with yearly appropriation from Florida Legislature
- Grants awarded to dental practices and organizations
- Serves eligible Florida veterans during annual funding period
Contact Information:
- Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs: (727) 319-7440
- Email: FDVA.VSO@FDVA.FL.GOV
- Website: floridavets.org
Federal VA Dental Benefits
Full VA Dental Coverage Available For:
- Veterans with service-connected dental disability with compensation
- 100% service-connected disability rating
- Veterans enrolled in VA Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31)
- Recently discharged veterans with incomplete dental treatment (within 180 days)
VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP): Available through Delta Dental or MetLife for Veterans enrolled in VA health care:
| Plan Type | Coverage | Monthly Premium Range | Annual Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enhanced Plan | Basic preventive and restorative | $45-55 | $1,000 |
| Comprehensive Plan | Includes crowns, bridges, dentures | $65-75 | $1,500 |
| Prime Plan | Maximum coverage for major procedures | $85-95 | $2,000+ |
Benefits:
- Save up to 40% on covered procedures with in-network providers
- 100% coverage for in-network cleanings, exams, and X-rays
- No waiting periods for preventive care
Wounded Veterans Relief Fund (WVRF)
Critical Dental Assistance Program: WVRF’s Critical Dental Assistance Program provides immediate critical dental care to qualified wounded and disabled veterans throughout the state of Florida.
Services Covered:
- Major critical dental services
- Reconstructive dental work
- Treatment for tooth pain/decay impairing ability to chew
- Missing teeth affecting employment prospects
Eligibility:
- Wounded or disabled veterans
- Must have VA Representative or VSO referral
- One treatment plan per veteran lifetime
Medicare and Insurance Options for Florida Seniors
Traditional Medicare Limitations
Reality Check: Medicare does not cover routine dental care for adults. Limited exceptions include:
- Hospital-based procedures requiring medical admission
- Dental services connected to covered medical procedures (cancer treatment, organ transplant, etc.)
Medicare Advantage Plans in Florida
Florida is famous for being a retirement destination for senior citizens. Over one-in-five Florida residents are age 65 or older. This population is typically eligible for Medicare but Original Medicare does not include dental care among its medical benefits.
Individual Dental Insurance Options:
- An analysis of 38 Florida dental plans for 2023 found the average monthly premium for a 33 year-old enrollee was $42.26
- Premium range: $8.06-$99.99 monthly depending on coverage level
- Average maximum benefit among PPO plans: $2,021 annually
Patient Cost Scenarios: What Florida Seniors Actually Pay
Understanding Florida Dental Costs (2025)
Florida’s dental prices reflect significant inflationary pressures over the last two decades, with notable premiums for major procedures compared to neighboring states.
| Service | Florida Average Cost | National Comparison | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Cleaning | $130 | Similar to national average | UF clinics 30-50% less |
| Composite Filling | $295 (97% increase since 2005) | Above national average | Student clinics much lower |
| Porcelain Crown | $1,213 | 5-7% premium over neighboring states | Resident clinics ~$970 |
| Full Dentures | $1,958 (63% increase since 2005) | Above national average | Medicaid may cover some cases |
| Dental Implant | $4,000 | Premium over neighboring states | Complete treatment $3,500-$5,500 |
Scenario 1: Maria, Age 69, Miami
Situation: Needs emergency extraction, has Medicaid
- Best Option: DentaQuest Medicaid dental plan
- Total Cost: $0 with possible $3 copay at FQHC
- Process: Call DentaQuest to find participating dentist
Scenario 2: Robert, Age 72, Orlando Veteran
Situation: Needs crown replacement, 50% VA disability rating, limited income
- Best Options: Florida Veterans Dental Program + VADIP insurance
- Total Cost: Potentially covered by veteran program or ~$800 with VADIP
- Contact: FDVA at (727) 319-7440
Scenario 3: Jean, Age 75, Gainesville
Situation: Needs comprehensive care, income above Medicaid limit
- Best Option: UF College of Dentistry student clinic
- Total Cost: 30-50% below private practice fees
- Application: Download screening form or call (352) 273-6701
Scenario 4: David, Age 68, Tampa
Situation: No insurance, needs multiple procedures
- Best Option: Wait for Florida Mission of Mercy 2026 (location TBA)
- Alternative: UF resident clinic at ~80% of private practice fees
- Planning: Save date for annual FLA-MOM event
Resources by Florida Region
South Florida (Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach)
Primary Resources:
- UF Health Hialeah: Comprehensive dental services, resident care
- Local FQHCs: Multiple community health centers with dental services
- Private Dental Schools: Nova Southeastern University in Davie
Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa, Gainesville)
Key Resources:
- UF Health Gainesville: Main campus with all specialties and urgent care
- UF Health St. Petersburg: Full range of resident services
- UCF Dental Center: Student health services (UCF community only)
North Florida (Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Pensacola)
Available Options:
- UF outreach programs: Rotating student services
- Local community health centers
- Military dental facilities: For eligible service members/veterans
Southwest Florida (Naples, Fort Myers)
Services Available:
- UF Naples Center: Pediatric dental services
- Local FQHCs: Several community health centers
- Private practice: Payment plan options
Special Populations and Inclusive Resources
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- All UF Health facilities have non-discrimination policies
- Medicaid dental plans cannot discriminate based on sexual orientation or gender identity
- Florida Mission of Mercy serves all patients without discrimination
Disabled Seniors
- UF Health centers are ADA compliant with accessibility accommodations
- Medicaid dental plans cover services for disabled adults
- Special needs dentistry available at UF Gainesville
Rural Seniors with Limited Access
- Transportation: Contact local Area Agencies on Aging
- UF Statewide Network: Reaches all 67 Florida counties
- Mobile Services: Some community health centers offer mobile dental units
Veterans with Special Needs
- Service-Connected Disabilities: Full VA dental coverage available
- PTSD/Mental Health: VA facilities equipped for veteran-specific care
- Combat-Related Injuries: Specialized oral and facial reconstruction services
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Florida Medicaid Dental Plan Enrollment
Automatic Enrollment:
- All Medicaid recipients are automatically assigned to a dental plan
- You’ll receive notification letters about your assigned plan
- Can change plans during open enrollment periods
If You Don’t Know Your Plan:
- Call Medicaid Choice Counseling: 1-877-711-3662
- Visit www.flsmmc.com
- Use online portal to check plan assignment
Finding Dentists:
- Call your dental plan’s member services
- Use online provider directories
- Ask about waiting times and availability
UF College of Dentistry Application
For Student Clinic Care:
- Download Screening Application: Available at dental.ufl.edu
- Complete Comprehensive Form: Include dental history and needs
- Mail Application: To address provided on form
- Wait for Contact: Appointment coordinator will call if selected
- Commitment Required: Must commit to completing entire treatment plan
Selection Criteria:
- Need comprehensive dental services
- Procedures ranging from simple to moderately difficult
- Able to commit to regular appointments
Florida Mission of Mercy Preparation
2025 Event Preparation:
- Save the Date: March 21-22, 2025, Daytona Beach
- Arrive Early: Doors open 7 AM, first-come first-served
- Bring Documentation: Photo ID recommended but not required
- Veterans: Pre-register for March 20 priority care
- Plan Full Day: Expect 3-5 hours on site
Warning Signs and When to Seek Emergency Care
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 affecting multiple teeth
- Difficulty opening mouth or swallowing
Important Medication Warnings
Always inform your dentist about:
- Blood thinners (Warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto) – may require special protocols
- Bisphosphonates (Fosamax, Boniva) – can affect jaw healing
- Diabetes medications – affects infection healing
- Heart medications – may interact with dental anesthetics
Avoid These Dental Scams
- Door-to-door dental services
- “Free” dental work in shopping center parking lots
- Pressure to sign contracts immediately
- Requests for personal information without proper verification
- “Traveling dentists” without proper Florida licensing
Looking Ahead: Recent Developments and Future Programs
Positive Recent Developments
- Florida Legislature and Governor Ron DeSantis passed legislation to create a veterans dental care grant program in Florida administered through the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs
- Florida’s dental student loan repayment program helps dentists to be able to serve in Florida’s rural and underserved areas
- Continued expansion of UF statewide dental network
What to Watch For
- Annual Florida Mission of Mercy locations (rotates annually)
- Expansion of Florida Veterans Dental Program
- Potential federal Medicare dental benefit additions
- New dental school programs and community partnerships
Stay Informed
- Follow Florida Dental Association updates
- Monitor UF Health system announcements
- Check Florida Veterans Foundation for program updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Florida Medicaid really cover comprehensive dental care for adults? A: Yes. If a recipient is 21 or older, they may be eligible to receive additional dental services. The below dental services are expanded benefits starting December 1, 2018. All Medicaid recipients are enrolled in dental plans.
Q: How much do dental procedures cost in Florida? A: $130 is the cost of an adult cleaning in Florida in 2024. $295 is the price for composite fillings in Florida, which has increased by 97% since 2005. $1,958 is the cost of full dentures in Florida. UF dental school costs are 30-50% below these averages.
Q: Is the Florida Mission of Mercy really free? A: Yes, completely free. We do not file any type of insurance claims or accept any forms of payment. All services are provided at no charge to FLA-MOM patients.
Q: Can veterans get free dental care in Florida? A: Many can. Veterans with service-connected disabilities qualify for full VA coverage, plus Florida has launched a new Veterans Dental Care Grant Program for additional support.
Q: How long are wait times for UF dental school treatment? A: Varies by program. Student clinics require application and selection process. Urgent care at SOS clinic is walk-in basis. Resident clinics typically have shorter waits than student clinics.
Q: What should I do for a dental emergency in Florida? A: For severe symptoms, go to hospital ER. For urgent dental pain, try UF Student Oral Surgery Clinic (Gainesville) walk-in service or call main UF number (352) 273-6700 for guidance.
Q: Do I need to be a Florida resident for these programs? A: Most require Florida residency. Medicaid requires state residency. UF accepts patients from all counties. Florida Mission of Mercy serves anyone at no cost regardless of residency.
Additional Resources and Verified Contacts
State Resources
Florida Agency for Health Care Administration
- Medicaid Choice Counseling: 1-877-711-3662
- Website: ahca.myflorida.com
- Services: Medicaid dental plan information and enrollment
Florida Department of Health
- Oral Health Program: Information and policy guidance
- County Health Departments: Local public dental services
Regional Resources
University of Florida Health System
- Main Scheduling: (352) 273-6700
- Student Oral Surgery Clinic: (352) 273-6705
- Website: dental.ufl.edu
Florida Dental Association Foundation
- Mission of Mercy Info: floridadental.org/foundation/programs/mission-of-mercy
- Donated Dental Services: Information on volunteer program participation
Veterans Resources
Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs
- State Veterans Service Officers: (727) 319-7440
- Email: FDVA.VSO@FDVA.FL.GOV
- Website: floridavets.org
Federal VA Resources
- VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
- VADIP Information: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/dental-insurance
Medicaid Dental Plans
DentaQuest Florida Medicaid
- Member Services: 1-888-468-5509
- Website: dentaquest.com/en/members/florida-medicaid-dental-coverage
- Hours: Monday-Friday 8 AM-7 PM ET
Humana Healthy Horizons Florida
- Website: humana.com/medicaid/florida-medicaid/coverage/dental
- Services: Medicaid dental plan information
Emergency Resources
Florida Poison Information Center
- Phone: 1-800-222-1222
- Available: 24/7
- Services: Medication interaction information
211 Florida
- Phone: 2-1-1
- Website: 211florida.org
- Services: Local assistance program information
Action Plan for Florida Seniors Needing Dental Care
Step 1: Determine Your Best Options
If you have Medicaid:
- Identify your dental plan: Call 1-877-711-3662
- Find participating dentists through your plan
- Schedule care with minimal or no copays
If you’re a veteran:
- Check VA dental eligibility: 1-800-827-1000
- Contact Florida Veterans Dental Program: (727) 319-7440
- Consider VADIP insurance for additional coverage
If you need comprehensive affordable care:
- Apply to UF College of Dentistry: (352) 273-6700
- Download screening application at dental.ufl.edu
- Consider resident clinics for shorter wait times
If you need emergency care:
- Severe symptoms: Hospital emergency room
- Urgent dental pain: UF Student Oral Surgery Clinic (352) 273-6705
- Call main UF number for guidance on best clinic option
Step 2: Prepare for 2025 Opportunities
Florida Mission of Mercy 2025:
- Save the Date: March 21-22, 2025, Daytona Beach
- Veterans: Register for March 20 priority care
- Plan to arrive early: Doors open 7 AM, first-come basis
Step 3: Gather Required Documentation
For Most Programs:
- Photo identification (driver’s license or state ID)
- Proof of income (for income-based programs)
- Insurance cards (Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance)
- Current medications list
- Medical history information
Step 4: Maintain Oral Health While Waiting
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to prevent gum disease
- Use antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended
- Avoid hard foods that could cause damage
- See a doctor for fever or severe swelling
- Take pain medication as directed (avoid aspirin if bleeding risk)
Step 5: Plan for Long-term Care
- Establish regular care once immediate needs are met
- Maintain insurance coverage through Medicaid or private plans
- Budget for routine maintenance after major work is completed
- Keep contact information for programs that helped you
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 Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, University of Florida Health System, Florida Department of Veterans Affairs, Florida Dental Association, Dental Lifeline Network, Veterans Affairs, and verified community health organization resources.
Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status, verifying contact information, and confirming eligibility requirements and coverage details.
Information Currency:
- Last Updated: August 2025
- Sources Verified: August 2025
- Next Review: February 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.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical or legal advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying. Dental program eligibility, benefits, and contact information can change frequently 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 programs.