Dental Grants in Iowa
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Iowa Seniors: Complete 2026 Guide
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated:
Medical Review: Content verified against current Iowa 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 Iowa Dental Clinics (Iowa City)
- Phone: (319) 335-7499
- Address: 311 Dental Science Building N, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Emergency Services: Comprehensive care with faculty supervision
- Coverage: Iowa Medicaid (Title 19) provider, most private insurance accepted
- Payment: Cash, credit card, debit card accepted
2. Iowa City Free Medical and Dental Clinic
- Location: 2440 Towncrest Drive, Iowa City
- Services: The Parrott-Stiles Free Dental Clinic provides exams, x-rays, treatment plans, fillings, extractions and hygiene
- Eligibility: Uninsured individuals who meet income requirements
- Partnership: Works closely with University of Iowa College of Dentistry
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 Proof: For free clinics – recent pay stubs or benefit statements
- Insurance Cards: Iowa Medicaid card, Medicare card, or private insurance
- Medical Info: Current medications list, especially blood thinners
Key Takeaways
Bottom Line:Iowa operates a comprehensive Dental Wellness Plan that provides extensive dental coverage to all Medicaid recipients ages 19 and older. Additionally, Iowa offers one of the largest annual Mission of Mercy events in the Midwest and has a strong state veterans dental trust fund.
What You Need to Know Right Now:
- Comprehensive Medicaid Coverage: Adult Medicaid members aged 19 and older are automatically enrolled in the Dental Wellness Plan.
- Note: Current carriers are Delta Dental and MCNA Dental. Effective July 1, 2026 , DentaQuest will replace MCNA as a carrier.
- Major Free Event: The Iowa Mission of Mercy (IMOM) 2026 dates and location are to be announced (typically held in the fall).
- Veterans Support: The Iowa Veterans Trust Fund now provides up to $10,000 (lifetime maximum) for dental treatment for qualifying veterans—a significant increase from previous annual limits.
- University Care: University of Iowa dental clinics offer care at approximately half the cost of private practice.
Understanding Iowa’s Dental Care Landscape for Seniors
Iowa’s Dental Wellness Plan
Iowa has implemented one of the most comprehensive Medicaid dental programs in the United States. Dental benefits for most Iowa Medicaid members are provided through dental plans, with adult Medicaid members aged 19 and older enrolled in the Dental Wellness Plan.
Key Features:
- All members can choose Delta Dental or MCNA Dental to provide their dental coverage
- Both dental carriers offer the same benefits with their own network of dentists and dental providers
- Members can change their dental carrier during annual choice periods or for Good Cause
Coverage Details:
- Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)
- Restorative care (fillings, crowns)
- Emergency dental services
- Specialized treatments when medically necessary
Iowa’s Dental Workforce and Infrastructure
Iowa Medicaid serves more than 700,000 people each year through a $6 billion program. The state has built strong partnerships between public and private dental providers to ensure access to care across all 99 counties.
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
- Pneumonia: Bacteria from infected teeth and gums can be aspirated into lungs
- Malnutrition: Tooth loss leads to difficulty eating nutritious foods
Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Iowa Seniors
1. Iowa Medicaid Dental Wellness Plan
Current Status (2026): Dental benefits for all adult Iowa Medicaid members (ages 19+) are provided through the Dental Wellness Plan (DWP). This includes both the “Iowa Health and Wellness Plan” (expansion group) and Traditional Medicaid (seniors and disabled adults).
Two Plan Options:
| Provider | Coverage Areas | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Dental of Iowa | Traditional Medicaid, IHAWP | Extensive PPO network; specific “Enhanced Benefits” for high-risk medical conditions |
| DentaQuest (Replacing MCNA) | Traditional Medicaid, IHAWP | Effective July 1, 2026 (Replaces MCNA Dental). Focus on community care coordination. |
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: Adults aged 19 and older (Includes Seniors 65+).
- Income:
- Expansion Group (19-64): Up to 133% of Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- Seniors (65+): Must meet Traditional Medicaid income limits (typically lower than expansion) or qualify through the “Medically Needy” spend-down program.
- Residency: Iowa resident and US citizen (or qualified legal resident).
Services Covered:
- Preventive care: Cleanings, exams, X-rays, fluoride treatments.
- Restorative care: Fillings, root canals, and crowns (Subject to medical necessity reviews).
- Prosthetic services: Full and partial dentures (Typically limited to one set every 5 years).
- Emergency services: Pain relief, infection treatment, and extractions.
Enhanced Benefits for Certain Conditions:
Some carriers (specifically Delta Dental) offer an “Enhanced Benefits Program” that provides additional cleanings (up to 4 per year) for members with specific conditions such as:
- Heart Disease
- Periodontal (Gum) Disease
- Note: You must self-report these conditions to your carrier to unlock the extra benefits.
Contact Information:
- Iowa Medicaid Member Services: 1-800-338-8366
- Local Des Moines area: 1-515-256-4606
- Application Help: Contact your local Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) office or apply online at the Iowa HHS portal.
2. University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics
Why Choose University of Iowa: The University of Iowa College of Dentistry is the only dental school in Iowa and one of only two dental colleges in the United States to offer all American Dental Association (ADA) accredited dental specialty training programs.
Clinical Options:
| Clinic Type | Provider Level | Cost Savings | Wait Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Clinics | Dental students under faculty supervision | 1/3 to 1/2 private practice cost | Longer appointments |
| Faculty Practice | Licensed faculty dentists | Competitive with private practice | Generally shorter |
| Graduate/Resident | Dental residents under supervision | Moderate savings | Variable |
| Geriatric/Special Needs | Specialized for seniors | Reduced fees (Income based) | Designed for complex cases |
Services Available:
- Comprehensive dental exams and cleanings
- Preventive care including fluoride treatments and sealants
- Restorative care: fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures
- Periodontal (gum) treatment
- Oral surgery and extractions
- Orthodontics and specialized care
Payment and Insurance:
- Iowa Medicaid (Title 19) provider
- Participating provider with Iowa Dental Wellness Plan (Note: Accepting both Delta Dental and the new DentaQuest plans)
- Most private dental insurance plans accepted
- Payment plans available through the business office
- Cash, credit card, and debit card accepted
Special Considerations for Seniors:
- Geriatric and Special Needs Clinic: Provides care tailored specifically to older adults and those with complex medical conditions.
- Interpreting services: Available at no charge.
- Accessibility: Fully accommodated for wheelchairs and special medical needs.
Contact Information:
- Appointment Scheduling: (319) 335-7499
- Address: 801 Newton Road, Iowa City, IA 52242 (Dental Science Building)
- Website: dentistry.uiowa.edu
3. Iowa Mission of Mercy (IMOM)
2026 Event Status: The dates and location for the 2026 Iowa Mission of Mercy have not yet been released. The event is typically held in the fall (September or October).Please check the official Iowa Mission of Mercy website (iowamom.org) for the latest announcements.
Typical Event Specifications:
- Location: Rotates annually to different cities across Iowa (2025 was in Coralville; 2024 was in Sioux City)
- Dates: To Be Announced (Typically a Friday-Saturday in the Fall)
- Hours: Clinic typically opens at 6:00 AM both days
- Capacity: Serves approx. 1,000+ patients over two days
- Services: Over $1 million in free oral healthcare provided annually
What to Expect:
- Large-Scale Setup: Approx. 100 mobile dental chairs set up in a large arena or conference center
- Full-Service Field Clinic: Equipment allows for fillings, extractions, and cleanings on-site
- First-Come, First-Served: No appointments are taken.Lines often form very early in the morning
- Capacity Limits: Patients are admitted until the daily capacity is reached
Services Provided (All Free):
- Cleaning and preventive care
- General dentistry (fillings)
- Minor oral surgery (extractions)
- Endodontic procedures (limited root canals, usually anterior teeth only)
- Periodontal care
- Note: Full dentures are generally not provided during the standard two-day event, though “flippers” (partial dentures) are sometimes available.
Patient Requirements:
- All ages welcome: Children and adults
- No Restrictions: No insurance, income verification, or residency requirements
- Identification: Photo ID is recommended for patient records but not strictly mandatory
- Time Commitment: Plan to spend the entire day on-site due to wait times
Volunteer Opportunities: Over 1,000 dental professionals and general volunteers are needed to run the event. Continuing education (CE) credits are available for participating dental professionals.
4. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program
Program Overview: DDS provides comprehensive treatment to eligible patients in Iowa. The program connects volunteer dentists with patients who cannot afford necessary dental care.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Lack adequate income to pay for dental care
- Have a permanent disability, be age 65 or older, OR qualify as medically fragile
- U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Unable to receive care through other programs
How It Works:
- Volunteer dentists provide comprehensive care at no cost
- Treatment includes all necessary procedures in one comprehensive plan
- Dental laboratories also donate services
- Each patient receives one complete course of treatment
Application Process:
- Contact Dental Lifeline Network through Iowa Legal Aid
- Complete comprehensive application and medical screening
- Match with volunteer dentist in your area
- Commitment required to complete entire treatment plan
Contact Information:
- Iowa Legal Aid: Information available through their dental care resource page
- National Dental Lifeline Network: dentallifeline.org/iowa/
Iowa Veterans Dental Benefits
Iowa Veterans Trust Fund
Program Overview: The Iowa Veterans Trust Fund provides financial assistance to veterans and their families, with dental care being one of the covered services.
Dental Benefits:
- Up to $2,500 of dental treatment in a 12-month period
- Payment made directly to dental provider
- Covers care not covered by Medicaid, Medicare, insurance, or VA
Eligibility Requirements:
- Income cannot exceed 200% of federal poverty guidelines
- Cannot have more than $15,000 of liquid assets
- Must have dental examination and treatment plan
- Must be an Iowa veteran
Application Process:
- Applications reviewed monthly by Iowa Commission of Veteran Affairs
- Dental examination often provided at no charge by participating dentists
- Examination fee can be included in treatment plan for reimbursement
- Contact your County Veteran Service Officer (VSO) for assistance
Additional Veterans Support:
- Assistance with vision, hearing, dental care, durable medical equipment
- Prescription drug assistance
- Counseling and substance abuse services
- Vehicle and housing repairs
Federal VA Dental Benefits
Full VA Dental Coverage Available For:
- Veterans with 100% service-connected disability rating
- Veterans with service-connected dental conditions
- Former prisoners of war
- Homeless veterans
- Veterans enrolled in VA Vocational Rehabilitation
VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP): Available for all veterans enrolled in VA health care and CHAMPVA beneficiaries:
| Plan Type | Monthly Premium Range | Coverage Level | Annual Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enhanced Plan | $45-55 | Basic preventive and restorative | $1,000-1,500 |
| Comprehensive Plan | $65-75 | Includes major restorative | $1,500-2,000 |
| Prime Plan | $85-95 | Maximum coverage | $2,000+ |
VADIP Benefits:
- Available through Delta Dental or MetLife
- Coverage throughout U.S. and territories
- No waiting periods for preventive care
- Can save up to 40% on covered procedures with in-network providers
Contact Information:
- VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
- Iowa VA Regional Office: 210 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
Medicare and Insurance Options for Iowa Seniors
Traditional Medicare Limitations
Reality Check: Medicare does not cover routine dental care for adults. Limited exceptions include:
- Hospital-based dental procedures requiring medical admission
- Dental services directly connected to covered medical procedures
Iowa Health and Wellness Plan (IHAWP)
Adults between ages 19-64 who don’t qualify for traditional Medicaid may be eligible for IHAWP:
- Income Requirements: Between 100-133% of Federal Poverty Level
- Dental Coverage: Through the Dental Wellness Plan
- Monthly Premiums: Based on income level
Private Dental Insurance Options
For adults who purchase stand-alone dental coverage through the exchange in Iowa, premiums in 2026 range from about $15 to $66 per month.
Available Through HealthCare.gov:
- Four insurers offer stand-alone dental coverage in Iowa
- ACA-compliant plans available
- Pediatric dental coverage included
- Special enrollment periods available for qualifying events
Patient Cost Scenarios: What Iowa Seniors Actually Pay
Understanding Iowa Dental Costs (2026)
Iowa generally has competitive dental pricing compared to national averages, with significant savings available through the University of Iowa student clinics and state-sponsored programs.
| Service | Iowa Private Practice Cost | UI Student Clinic Cost | Medicaid (DWP) Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Cleaning | $130 – $210 | $55 – $85 | $0 copay |
| Composite Filling | $180 – $350 | $90 – $160 | $0 copay |
| Porcelain Crown | $1,200 – $1,800 | $600 – $800 | Covered (Strict medical necessity rules apply) |
| Root Canal (Molar) | $1,000 – $1,600 | $500 – $750 | Covered (Emergency/Acute pain basis) |
| Full Dentures (Set) | $2,500 – $4,500 | $1,100 – $1,800 | Covered (Once per 5 years) |
Important Note on Medicaid Coverage: While the Dental Wellness Plan (Medicaid) covers “major” services like crowns and dentures, approval is based on strict medical necessity . Cosmetic corrections are not covered.
-
Carrier Update: Effective July 1, 2026 , DentaQuest will replace MCNA as a primary carrier for the Dental Wellness Plan. Delta Dental of Iowa remains a carrier.
Scenario 1: Dorothy, Age 68, Des Moines
Situation: Needs routine cleaning and filling, has Medicaid
- Best Option: Iowa Dental Wellness Plan through Delta Dental or MCNA
- Total Cost: $0 copay for covered services
- Process: Call Medicaid Member Services 1-800-338-8366 to find participating dentist
Scenario 2: Robert, Age 72, Iowa City Veteran
Situation: Needs crown replacement, 60% VA disability, limited income
- Best Options: Iowa Veterans Trust Fund + VADIP insurance
- Iowa Veterans Trust Fund: Up to $2,500 coverage per year
- VADIP: Additional coverage at reduced premium
- Contact: County VSO for Trust Fund application
Scenario 3: Mary, Age 75, Rural Iowa
Situation: Needs comprehensive care, income above Medicaid limit
- Best Option: University of Iowa dental clinics
- Total Cost: 1/3 to 1/2 private practice fees
- Travel Consideration: May be worth trip to Iowa City for significant savings
Scenario 4: James, Age 70, Coralville Area
Situation: No insurance, needs multiple extractions and dentures
- Best Option: Iowa Mission of Mercy September 19-20, 2025
- Total Cost: Completely free
- Planning: Arrive early at Hyatt Regency Coralville, first-come basis
Resources by Iowa Region
Eastern Iowa (Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Davenport)
Primary Resources:
- University of Iowa Dental Clinics: Comprehensive care with student, resident, and faculty options.
- Iowa City Free Medical & Dental Clinic: Provides free dental services (extractions and fillings) for uninsured/underinsured residents of Johnson and Washington counties.
- Community Health Care, Inc. (Davenport/Quad Cities): A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) offering sliding-scale dental services.
- Iowa Mission of Mercy: 2026 dates and location To Be Announced
Central Iowa (Des Moines, Ames, Marshalltown)
Available Services:
- Medicaid Providers: Network coverage through Delta Dental and (until July 1, 2026) MCNA Dental. Note: DentaQuest takes over the MCNA contract mid-year.
- Primary Health Care (Des Moines & Marshalltown): Major community health center offering dental services to public and uninsured patients.
- Broadlawns Medical Center (Des Moines): Dental clinic available for county residents and Medicaid members.
- Proteus, Inc.: specialized health/dental support for agricultural workers in the region.
Western Iowa (Council Bluffs, Sioux City)
Key Resources:
- Siouxland Community Health Center (Sioux City): Offers emergency dental care and routine services. Warning: Adult non-emergency appointments are often limited; they utilize a “first-call, first-served” system for urgent needs.
- All Care Health Center (Council Bluffs): Reserves a limited number of “Same Day Access” appointments daily for emergencies.
- Travel Options: Complex cases are frequently referred to the University of Iowa (Iowa City), as specialists are scarcer in this region.
Northern Iowa (Waterloo, Cedar Falls, Mason City)
Services Available:
- Peoples Community Health Clinic (Waterloo): Integrated dental services available. Important 2026 Note: They frequently reach capacity for new adult patients, so call immediately to check status. Emergency care is prioritized.
- Mason City Community Health Center: Sliding-scale dental services for low-income residents.
- Medicaid Dental Providers: Network coverage is stable here, but verify if your specific dentist is accepting new Title 19 patients, as lists change monthly.
Special Populations and Inclusive Resources
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- All Iowa Medicaid dental plans prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity
- University of Iowa facilities have inclusive non-discrimination policies
- Iowa Mission of Mercy serves all patients without discrimination
Disabled Seniors
- Geriatric and Special Needs Clinic at University of Iowa specifically designed for complex cases
- Iowa Medicaid covers services for disabled adults
- DDS Program specifically serves disabled individuals age 65+
- Members in medical institutions (nursing facilities, ICF/IDs) have full benefits without monthly premiums
Rural Seniors with Limited Access
- Transportation: Contact Area Agencies on Aging for assistance
- Medicaid Network: Both Delta Dental and MCNA have statewide networks
- University of Iowa: Worth traveling for comprehensive care at reduced costs
Veterans with Special Needs
- Iowa Veterans Trust Fund: Serves all eligible Iowa veterans regardless of location
- VA Medical Centers: Iowa City and Des Moines VA facilities
- County VSOs: Available in all 99 Iowa counties to assist with applications
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Iowa Medicaid Dental Wellness Plan
Determining Eligibility:
- Income Check: Must be at or below 133% of Federal Poverty Level
- Residency: Must be Iowa resident and U.S. citizen
- Age: Adults 19-64 (seniors 65+ typically eligible for Medicare)
Application Process:
- Apply for Medicaid: Contact local Department of Human Services office
- Automatic Enrollment: Once approved for Medicaid, automatic enrollment in Dental Wellness Plan
- Choose Provider: Select between Delta Dental or MCNA Dental
- Find Dentist: Use provider directories or call member services
Required Documentation:
- Photo identification
- Social Security card
- Income verification (pay stubs, benefit statements)
- Proof of Iowa residency
University of Iowa Dental Clinics
Student Clinic Application:
- Initial Screening: Call (319) 335-7499 for screening appointment
- Evaluation: Faculty dentists evaluate your dental needs
- Patient Selection: Based on educational needs of students
- Commitment: Must commit to completing entire treatment plan
Selection Criteria:
- Need for comprehensive dental services
- Procedures ranging from simple to moderately difficult
- Reliable patients who keep appointments
- Time availability for half-day appointments
Iowa Mission of Mercy Preparation
2026 Event Preparation:
- Check for Updates: Dates and Location for 2026 are To Be Announced . (Typically held in September or October; check
iowamom.orgfor the latest release). - Arrival Strategy: Arrive early — the clinic typically opens at 6:00 AM.
- No Appointments: Service is strictly first-come, first-served.
- Plan Full Day: Expect to spend 8-10 hours on-site due to high demand.
- Come Prepared: Bring food, water, and any daily medications you need, as you will be waiting in line for several hours.
Iowa Veterans Trust Fund Application
Application Steps:
- Contact County VSO: Find your local Veteran Service Officer
- Gather Documentation: DD-214, income verification, asset information
- Dental Examination: Obtain dental exam and treatment plan (often provided free)
- Submit Application: VSO assists with complete application
- Monthly Review: Applications reviewed monthly by Iowa Commission of Veteran Affairs
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 procedure modifications
- 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 parking lots without proper licensing
- Pressure to sign contracts immediately
- Requests for Social Security numbers without proper verification
- “Traveling dentists” without Iowa licensing
Looking Ahead: Recent Developments and Future Programs
Recent Positive Developments
- Iowa Mission of Mercy continues annual tradition with over $1 million in donated care annually
- University of Iowa dental clinics expanded services and updated facilities
- Iowa Veterans Trust Fund continues strong funding for veteran dental care
What to Watch For
- Potential expansion of Medicaid dental benefits
- Additional mobile dental programs in rural areas
- Changes in federal Medicare dental coverage
- Growth of dental provider networks in underserved areas
Stay Informed
- Follow Iowa Dental Association updates
- Monitor Iowa Department of Health and Human Services announcements
- Check University of Iowa dental clinic website for new programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Iowa Medicaid really cover comprehensive dental care for adults? A: Yes. Adult Medicaid members aged 19 and older are enrolled in the Dental Wellness Plan, which provides extensive dental services through Delta Dental or MCNA Dental.
Q: How much does dental care cost at the University of Iowa? A: Treatment is available at significantly reduced fees – savings are 1/3 to 1/2 the cost of similar services from a private dental office.
Q: Is the Iowa Mission of Mercy really completely free? A: Yes, absolutely free. IMOM provides over $1 million in free oral healthcare over the two-day clinic. All services are provided at no cost to patients.
Q: Can veterans get dental care through Iowa programs? A: Yes. The Iowa Veterans Trust Fund provides up to $2,500 of dental treatment per 12-month period for qualifying veterans, plus federal VA benefits are available.
Q: What should I do for a dental emergency in Iowa? A: For severe symptoms, go to hospital ER. For urgent dental pain, call University of Iowa dental clinics at (319) 335-7499 or visit Iowa City Free Medical and Dental Clinic.
Q: How long are wait times for free dental care in Iowa? A: Varies by program. Medicaid providers typically available within weeks. University of Iowa depends on complexity. Iowa Mission of Mercy is once annually but serves over 1,000 patients.
Q: Do I need to be an Iowa resident for these programs? A: Most require Iowa residency. Medicaid requires state residency. University of Iowa accepts out-of-state patients but may have different pricing. Iowa Mission of Mercy serves anyone regardless of residency.
Additional Resources and Verified Contacts
State Resources
Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
- Medicaid Member Services: 1-800-338-8366
- Local Des Moines: 1-515-256-4606
- Website: hhs.iowa.gov
Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs
- Main Office: 515-252-4698
- Toll-Free: 800-838-4692
- Email: idva@iowa.gov
- Website: dva.iowa.gov
University Resources
University of Iowa College of Dentistry
- Appointment Scheduling: (319) 335-7499
- Address: 311 Dental Science Building N, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Website: dentistry.uiowa.edu
Medicaid Dental Plan Contacts
Delta Dental of Iowa
- Customer Service: 1-800-544-0718
- Website: deltadentalia.com
- Provider Directory: Available online
MCNA Dental Iowa
- Member Services: Check MCNA website for current contact
- Website: mcnaia.net
- Special Programs: Amazon gift card rewards for preventive care
Veterans Resources
County Veteran Service Officers
- Available in all 99 Iowa counties
- Services: Free assistance with federal, state, and local benefits
- Iowa Veterans Trust Fund: Applications processed monthly
Iowa VA Regional Office
- Address: 210 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309
- Phone: 1-800-827-1000
Emergency and Support Resources
Iowa 211
- Phone: 2-1-1
- Website: 211iowa.org
- Services: Information on local assistance programs
Area Agencies on Aging
- Services: Transportation assistance, senior programs
- Contact: Call 2-1-1 for local agency information
Action Plan for Iowa Seniors Needing Dental Care
Step 1: Determine Your Best Path
If you have Medicaid:
- Confirm enrollment in Dental Wellness Plan: 1-800-338-8366
- Choose between Delta Dental or MCNA Dental
- Find participating dentist through provider directory
- Schedule routine or emergency care with minimal copays
If you’re a veteran:
- Check VA dental eligibility: 1-800-827-1000
- Contact County VSO about Iowa Veterans Trust Fund
- Consider VADIP insurance for additional coverage
- Apply for up to $2,500 annual coverage through Trust Fund
If you need comprehensive affordable care:
- Apply to University of Iowa dental clinics: (319) 335-7499
- Request screening appointment for student clinics
- Consider Geriatric/Special Needs clinic for complex cases
- Explore payment plans through business office
If you need emergency care:
- Severe symptoms: Hospital emergency room
- Urgent dental pain: University of Iowa (319) 335-7499
- Free care: Iowa City Free Medical and Dental Clinic
Step 2: Plan for 2026 Iowa Mission of Mercy
Mark Your Calendar:
- Dates: To Be Announced (Typically held in September or October)
- Location: To Be Announced (Check
iowamom.orgfor updates) - Strategy: Arrive early — lines often start forming hours before the 6:00 AM opening.
- Expectations: First-come, first-served only.
- Time Commitment: Plan for a full day (8-10 hours) on-site.
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
- Veterans: DD-214 and service records
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
- Keep contact information for programs that helped you
- Stay informed about annual Iowa Mission of Mercy dates
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 Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, University of Iowa Health System, Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, Iowa 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: January 2026
- Sources Verified: January 2026
- Next Review: May 2026
Important Note: Dental programs can change without advance notice. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with program administrators before applying.
Found an Error? If you discover outdated information or additional programs that should be included, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org.
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.
About the Authors