Dental Grants in Kansas

Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Kansas Seniors: Complete 2025 Guide

Last Updated: August 2025 | Medical Review: Content verified against current KanCare policies and federal poverty guidelines

⚡ If You Need Emergency Help

For a dental emergency right now:

Immediate Emergency Resources

1. Hospital Emergency Rooms

• When to go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
• What they do: Emergency rooms must provide pain management and treat life-threatening infections, but cannot perform dental procedures
• Cost: Expensive, but required to provide emergency stabilization

2. KanCare Emergency Dental Services

• Sunflower Health Plan: (855) 467-4200
• United Healthcare Community Plan: (844) 249-5442
• Healthy Blue: (844) 621-4575
• Available: 24/7 for KanCare members
• Services: Emergency authorization and provider referrals

3. UMKC School of Dentistry Emergency (Kansas City)

• Phone: (816) 235-2100
• Location: 650 E. 25th Street, Kansas City, MO (serves Kansas border area)
• Services: Emergency dental care with dental students under supervision

4. Kansas Medical Assistance Program (KMAP)

• Customer Service: (800) 766-9012
• Services: Help finding emergency dental providers who accept KanCare
• Available: Monday-Friday business hours

5. Community Care Network of Kansas

• Website: communitycareks.org
• Services: Directory of safety net clinics with emergency services

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Key Takeaways

Bottom Line: Kansas has significantly expanded dental care access for seniors through historic KanCare (Medicaid) dental benefit expansions starting in 2022, making it one of only eight states with extensive adult Medicaid dental coverage. The state also offers strong volunteer programs and annual Mission of Mercy events.

What You Need to Know Right Now:

• Historic Expansion: Kansas extended comprehensive Medicaid dental benefits to adults starting July 2022, with dentures added in 2023 and exams/cleanings in 2024
• No Annual Maximums: KanCare dental services are covered without annual limits for medically necessary care
• Annual Free Event: Kansas Mission of Mercy provides free dental care annually (2026: January 30-31 in Manhattan)
• Income Qualifications: Most free programs require household income at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Level ($23,475 annually for individuals in 2025)

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Understanding Kansas’s Dental Care Landscape for Seniors

The Success Story: Kansas’s Medicaid Expansion

Kansas has emerged as a national leader in Medicaid dental coverage for adults. The state’s legislative actions in 2022-2024 represent “the biggest step forward in the state’s history in making dental care available to some of the most underserved Kansans,” according to Oral Health Kansas.

Key Achievements:

• 2022: Added comprehensive dental services for adults
• 2023: Added denture coverage
• 2024: Added dental exams, cleanings, and X-rays
• Impact: Kansas now offers nearly comprehensive dental benefits to all adult Medicaid recipients

National Recognition: Kansas joins only seven other states offering extensive Medicaid adult dental benefits, doubling from four states in 2020.

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
• Diabetes Complications: Poor oral health makes blood sugar control harder
• Emergency Department Costs: Nearly 79% of dental-related ER visits could be addressed in dental offices
• Economic Impact: Kansas Medicaid program expects to save nearly $5 million in first three years of adult dental coverage

Source: American Heart Association, Health Policy Institute at American Dental Association

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KanCare (Kansas Medicaid) Dental Benefits

Who Qualifies for KanCare

KanCare is Kansas’s Medicaid program, serving low-income individuals and families including:

• Seniors 65 and older
• Adults with disabilities
• Pregnant women
• Children up to age 19
• Adult caretakers of children
• Other qualifying low-income adults

What’s Covered Under KanCare Dental (2025)

Covered Services WITHOUT Annual Maximum:

• Dental exams and consultations (added July 2024)
• X-rays and diagnostics (added July 2024)
• Cleanings and fluoride treatments (added July 2024)
• Fillings and crowns
• Periodontal care and gum disease treatment
• Silver diamine fluoride application
• Root canals and endodontic treatment
• Oral surgery and extractions
• Full and partial dentures (added July 2023)
• Denture repairs
• Emergency dental care

Transportation Benefits:

• Medical transportation to dental appointments covered when medically necessary
• No additional cost for eligible members

KanCare Managed Care Organizations (2025-2027)

Kansas operates through three managed care organizations:

Sunflower Health Plan

• Customer Service: (855) 467-4200
• Website: Provider directory available online

United Healthcare Community Plan

• Customer Service: (844) 249-5442
• Website: Provider search tools available

Healthy Blue

• Customer Service: (844) 621-4575
• Dental Services: Uses SkyGen for dental network management

How to Access KanCare Dental Services

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

• Apply online: KanCare.ks.gov
• Phone: (800) 792-4884
• Self-Service Portal: Medical Consumer Self-Service Portal available

Step 2: Find a Provider

• KanCare Provider Directory: Available through your health plan
• KMAP Website: Click “Find A Doctor” and search for “Dentist”
• Children’s Dentist Finder: insurekidsnow.gov/coverage/find-a-dentist

Step 3: Schedule Your Appointment

• Show your KanCare member ID card
• Inform dentist of your health plan (Sunflower, United Healthcare, or Healthy Blue)
• Some services may require prior authorization

KanCare Income Limits (2025)

Note: Kansas Medicaid has complex eligibility rules. Contact KanCare for specific income limits based on your circumstances.

General Guidelines:

• Adults: Varies by category and household size
• Seniors: May qualify under aged/disabled categories with different limits
• Assets: Generally $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples (some programs)

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Donated Dental Services Program

How It Works

Kansas Donated Dental Services, part of the national Dental Lifeline Network, provides comprehensive dental care to vulnerable adults through volunteer dentists throughout the state.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, you must:

• Be 65 years or older, OR permanently disabled, OR medically fragile
• Lack adequate income to pay for dental care
• Be unable to obtain care through public aid or insurance
• Have seriously neglected oral health with no other way to get care

What to Expect

• Comprehensive Treatment: Full dental care including fillings, crowns, dentures, extractions
• Volunteer-Based: Care provided by volunteer dentists in their private offices
• No Emergency Services: Program focuses on comprehensive treatment, not emergencies
• No Cost: People who qualify usually pay nothing, though occasionally may be asked to pay for laboratory work

Application Process

Kansas Coordinator:

• Name: Anita Garbo, DDS
• Phone: (785) 273-1900
• Email: agarbo@dentallifeline.org
• Fax: (785) 273-1542

Application Steps:

1. Download Application: Visit dentallifeline.org/Kansas
2. Complete Form: All applications must be submitted through the Kansas coordinator
3. Submit Documentation: Include income verification and medical information
4. Wait for Matching: Coordinator will match you with volunteer dentist in your area

Important Notes

First Dental Insurance Use Required: If you have dental insurance (including Medicaid), you must use that first before qualifying for Donated Dental Services.

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Kansas Mission of Mercy

What It Is

Kansas Mission of Mercy (KMOM) is an annual free dental clinic sponsored by the Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation, providing comprehensive dental care on a first-come, first-served basis with no eligibility requirements.

2026 Event Details

When: Friday, January 30 & Saturday, January 31, 2026 Where: Manhattan, KS at the National Guard Armory Hours: Typically 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM both days Basis: First-come, first-served – no appointments

Services Provided

Free Dental Services:

• Cleanings and preventive care
• Fillings and restorative work
• Extractions and oral surgery
• Emergency pain relief
• Basic prosthetic services

No Requirements:

• No income verification
• No insurance required
• No ID needed
• No residency requirements
• All ages welcome

What to Expect

Arrival and Wait Times:

• Doors typically open early morning
• Expect significant wait times
• Some people arrive the night before or very early morning
• Bring camping chairs, blankets, snacks, and entertainment

Volunteer-Powered:

• Over 100 dentists volunteer
• 200+ clinical volunteers
• Hundreds of general volunteers
• Estimated $900,000+ in free care provided over two days

Planning for the Event

Preparation Tips:

1. Arrive Early: Consider arriving Thursday evening or very early Friday morning
2. Bring Supplies: Chairs, blankets, food, water, medications
3. Weather Preparation: January in Kansas can be very cold
4. Transportation: Arrange reliable transportation to Manhattan, KS
5. Expectations: Be prepared for long wait times but potentially life-changing care

Contact Information:

• Website: ksdentalfoundation.org
• Facebook: Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation
• Updates: Check website regularly for volunteer registration and patient information

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Dental Schools and Training Programs

University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry

Location: 650 E. 25th Street, Kansas City, MO (serves Kansas City metro area)

• Phone: (816) 235-2100
• Services: Comprehensive dental care with dental students under faculty supervision
• Cost: Significantly reduced fees compared to private practice
• Population Served: As the only public dental school serving Missouri and Kansas, graduates account for roughly half of practicing dentists in the area

Available Services:

• General dentistry and preventive care
• Specialty services (oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics)
• Emergency dental care
• Complex restorative procedures

Johnson County Community College Dental Hygiene Clinic

Location: Overland Park, KS

• Phone: (913) 469-3808
• Cost: $10 (covers all services for the appointment)
• Services: Dental screenings, X-rays, oral exams, cleanings
• Provider: Dental hygiene students under supervision of dentists and registered dental hygienists

Appointment Process:

• Appointment Requests: Complete JCCC Dental Hygiene Clinic Appointment Request Form
• Semester Schedule: Fall and spring semesters only (not summer)
• Age Requirements: Children age 4 and up, plus adults

Special Features:

• Can sign school dental cards for children if no additional treatment needed
• Most children seen during spring semester
• Written referrals provided for services beyond scope

Salina Area Technical College Dental Hygiene Clinic

Location: 2562 Centennial Rd, Salina, KS 67401

• Phone: (785) 309-3146
• Hours: Wednesdays and Fridays, 8 AM – 4:00 PM (Fall semester)
• Services: Teeth cleanings (ages 4 and up), sealants, whitening

Cost: Low-cost, affordable care – “No Insurance? No Problem!”

Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine

Location: Joplin, MO (near Kansas border)

• Status: New dental school program launched to address regional dentist shortage
• Service Area: Four-state region including Kansas
• Future Impact: Will help address the fact that nearly all counties within 125 miles of Joplin qualify as Dental Health Professional Shortage Areas

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Community Health Centers and Safety Net Clinics

Community Care Network of Kansas

Website: communitycareks.org Services: Directory of safety net clinics throughout Kansas

Clinic Features:

• KanCare Accepted: Serve patients with Medicaid insurance
• Private Insurance: Accept most private dental plans
• Sliding Fee Scale: Income-based pricing for uninsured patients
• Comprehensive Services: Medical, dental, and mental health services available

Delta Dental of Kansas Community Benefit Plan

Partnership: Delta Dental of Kansas and United Way of the Plains Website: unitedwayplains.org

Eligibility:

• Income Requirement: 250% of Federal Poverty Level or less
• Employment Status: Must be employed, receive Social Security benefits, disability assistance, or have recent tax return
• Coverage Area: Statewide Kansas

Benefits:

• Annual Maximum: $3,000 per family member
• Coverage: 100% of diagnostic, preventive, basic, and major services at in-network providers
• Deductible: $5 individual, $10 family maximum (paid once per plan year)
• Network: Any in-network Delta Dental provider

Pathways to Oral Health

Focus: Collaborative initiative serving individuals with disabilities who rely on KanCare Services: Dedicated to improving access to dental care and expanding education on oral health for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Features:

• Specialized Care: Staff trained to work with disability populations
• Sedation Services: Available through private mobile agency (usually covered by insurance including Medicaid)
• Wait Times: Usually about two months, expedited for emergencies
• Contact: Debbie Messecher at (785) 296-5377 or Deborah.Messecher@ks.gov

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Special Programs for Diverse Communities

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Inclusive Care Providers:

• Community health centers generally provide non-discriminatory care
• UMKC School of Dentistry has inclusive policies
• Ask about: Staff training on LGBTQ+ issues when calling providers

Finding LGBTQ+-Affirming Providers:

• Contact community health centers about their inclusion policies
• Look for non-discrimination statements on websites
• Ask about cultural competency training during initial calls

Veteran Seniors

VA Dental Benefits Veterans may qualify for comprehensive dental care through the Department of Veterans Affairs:

Eligibility Classes:

• Class 1: Service-connected dental disability – full dental care
• Class 4: 100% disability rating or Individual Unemployability – full dental care
• Class 2: Recently discharged within 180 days – one-time dental care

Kansas VA Medical Centers:

• Topeka: Colmery-O’Neil VA Medical Center
• Wichita: Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center
• Leavenworth: Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center

Contact Information:

• VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
• Topeka VA: (785) 350-3111
• Wichita VA: (316) 685-2221

Disabled Seniors

Specialized Resources:

• Pathways to Oral Health: Specifically serves individuals with disabilities on KanCare
• Donated Dental Services: Prioritizes people with permanent disabilities
• Community health centers: Most provide disability accommodations

Access Features:

• Wheelchair accessibility at major centers
• Extended appointment times when needed
• Specialized communication support
• Sedation services available when medically necessary

Rural Seniors with Limited Access

Challenges in Rural Kansas:

• Limited number of dentists per capita
• Transportation barriers to care
• Geographic distances to specialty services

Solutions:

1. KanCare Transportation: Medical transportation covered for necessary appointments
2. Mobile Dental Services: Some areas served by mobile dental units
3. Kansas Mission of Mercy: Annual event worth traveling to attend
4. Community Care Network: Helps locate nearest safety net clinic

Rural Health Resources:

• Kansas Department of Health and Environment: Resource navigation
• Local Area Agencies on Aging: Transportation assistance programs
• Community Care Network of Kansas: Statewide clinic directory

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Dental Costs in Kansas (2025 Data)

Typical Costs for Common Procedures

Cost Savings at Major Programs

UMKC School of Dentistry:

• Typical Savings: 40-60% below private practice fees
• Example: Crown might cost $400-$700 vs. $1,000-$1,600 privately

Community Health Centers:

• Sliding Scale: Can reduce costs by 50-90% based on income
• Example: Cleaning might cost $20-$80 vs. $120-$200 privately

Delta Dental Community Benefit Plan:

• Coverage: 100% of services at in-network providers
• Cost: $5 individual deductible, $10 family maximum per year

Payment Options Available

CareCredit Healthcare Financing

• Benefits: Special financing for healthcare
• Warning: High interest rates (26.99% APR) if not paid during promotional period
• Availability: Accepted at most dental offices

Dental Office Payment Plans

• Many practices offer monthly payment arrangements
• Typically require down payment and credit check
• Interest rates vary by provider

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2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines for Kansas Programs

Most programs use percentages of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to determine eligibility:

Income Eligibility Quick Reference

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 2025 Poverty Guidelines

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Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Before You Apply – Gather Documents

Required for Most Programs:

Priority Application Strategy

For KanCare-Eligible Seniors:

1. Apply for KanCare through the online portal or by phone
2. Choose managed care organization (Sunflower, United Healthcare, or Healthy Blue)
3. Find KanCare dentist using provider directory
4. Schedule comprehensive care to address all needs without annual limits

For Non-KanCare Eligible Seniors:

1. Apply to Donated Dental Services if you’re 65+ (785) 273-1900
2. Contact community health centers for sliding fee scale services
3. Consider Delta Dental Community Benefit Plan if income is under 250% FPL
4. Plan for Kansas Mission of Mercy (January 30-31, 2026 in Manhattan)

Typical Timeline Expectations

KanCare Application:

• Processing time: 30-45 days for standard applications
• Emergency Medicaid: Available for urgent situations
• Dental services: Available immediately upon approval with no annual caps

Donated Dental Services:

• Application review: 2-4 weeks
• Dentist matching: 2-6 months (varies by location)
• Treatment start: Depends on volunteer availability

Community Health Centers:

• Initial appointment: 1-3 weeks
• Emergency services: Often same-day or next-day
• Specialists: 2-6 weeks depending on location

Delta Dental Community Benefit Plan:

• Application processing: 2-3 weeks
• Coverage start: First of following month after approval
• Provider access: Immediate once coverage begins

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Medicare and Insurance Options for Kansas Seniors

Traditional Medicare Limitations

Reality Check: Medicare Parts A and B do not cover routine dental care. Limited exceptions include:

• Hospital-based dental procedures requiring medical admission
• Dental services related to covered medical treatments

Medicare Advantage Plans in Kansas

2025 Dental Coverage Options: Kansas has numerous Medicare Advantage plans offering dental benefits:

Major Insurers:

• Humana
• UnitedHealthcare
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas
• Aetna
• Kansas Medicare Advantage Plans

Typical Coverage:

• Annual maximums: $1,000-$3,000
• Preventive care: Often 100% covered
• Restorative care: 50-80% coverage
• Waiting periods: May apply for major services

Kansas Marketplace Dental Plans

Individual Dental Insurance:

• Available through HealthCare.gov
• Stand-alone dental plans
• Premium range: $15-$45 per month for adults
• Annual maximums typically $1,000-$2,500

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Patient Success Stories

“I’m 71 and had been putting off dental work for years because of the cost. When Kansas expanded the KanCare dental benefits, it was life-changing. I got dentures, fillings, and cleanings – all covered 100%. The dentist said it was the biggest improvement in my oral health he’d ever seen. I can eat properly again and I’m not embarrassed to smile.” – Robert L., Topeka

“My husband has diabetes and we were worried about the connection between gum disease and his blood sugar control. The Donated Dental Services program matched us with a wonderful periodontist who did thousands of dollars of work for free. His A1C has improved significantly since getting his gum disease treated.” – Mary S., Wichita

“We attended the Kansas Mission of Mercy in Hutchinson and it was incredible. Yes, we waited in line for hours, but seeing hundreds of volunteers helping people for free was amazing. My wife got three teeth extracted that had been causing her pain for months. The care was professional and compassionate.” – James T., Garden City

Note: Patients gave permission to share stories; names changed for privacy

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Warning Signs and Red Flags

Dental Emergency Symptoms – Seek Immediate Help

• Facial swelling affecting breathing or swallowing
• Fever with dental pain (indicates serious infection)
• Severe bleeding that won’t stop
• Trauma affecting multiple teeth
• Signs of spreading infection (red streaks, swollen lymph nodes)

Avoid These Dental Scams

Common Red Flags:

• Door-to-door dental services
• “Free” dental work in parking lots without proper facilities
• Pressure to sign contracts immediately
• Requests for Social Security numbers before legitimate verification
• Mobile dental units without proper Kansas licensing

How to Verify Legitimate Programs

1. Check state licensing through Kansas Dental Board
2. Verify through established organizations (Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Kansas Dental Association)
3. No upfront fees for applications to legitimate programs
4. Clear physical addresses and established phone numbers
5. Income verification required for sliding-scale programs

Kansas Dental Board Verification:

• Website: kansas.gov/dental-verification
• Phone: (785) 296-6400
• License lookup: Available online

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Does Kansas Medicaid (KanCare) cover dental care for seniors? A: Yes! Kansas now provides comprehensive KanCare dental benefits for all adult members including seniors, with no annual maximums. This includes exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, dentures, and more.

Q: When did Kansas expand adult dental benefits? A: Kansas began expanding adult dental benefits in July 2022, added denture coverage in July 2023, and added exams/cleanings in July 2024. It’s now one of only eight states with extensive adult Medicaid dental coverage.

Q: How do I apply for KanCare if I’m a senior in Kansas? A: Apply online at KanCare.ks.gov, call (800) 792-4884, or visit your local aging and disability resource center for application assistance.

Q: What if I don’t qualify for KanCare but need affordable dental care? A: Apply for Donated Dental Services if you’re 65+ (785-273-1900, consider the Delta Dental Community Benefit Plan if your income is under 250% FPL, or find a community health center with sliding fee scales.

Q: When is the next Kansas Mission of Mercy? A: The next Kansas Mission of Mercy will be January 30-31, 2026, in Manhattan, KS at the National Guard Armory. It’s completely free with no eligibility requirements.

Q: Can I get help with transportation to dental appointments? A: Yes! KanCare covers medical transportation for necessary dental appointments. Contact your managed care organization for transportation arrangements.

Q: What should I do for a dental emergency if I have no insurance? A: Go to a hospital emergency room for severe symptoms. For urgent dental pain, call the Kansas Medical Assistance Program at (800) 766-9012 for emergency resources or find a community health center.

Q: Are there annual limits on KanCare dental benefits? A: No! Kansas KanCare dental services are covered without annual maximums for medically necessary care. This makes Kansas one of the most generous states for adult Medicaid dental coverage.

Q: How long do I have to wait for free dental care? A: Varies significantly: KanCare members can often get appointments within 2-4 weeks, community health centers 1-3 weeks, Donated Dental Services 2-6 months, and Mission of Mercy is annual but immediate treatment.

Q: What medications should I tell my dentist about? A: Always inform your dentist about blood thinners (Warfarin, Eliquis), bisphosphonates (Fosamax, Boniva), diabetes medications, blood pressure medications, and any supplements.

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Resources by Region

Northeast Kansas (Topeka Area)

Colmery-O’Neil VA Medical Center

• Phone: (785) 350-3111
• Services: VA dental benefits for qualifying veterans

Community Health Centers

• Contact Community Care Network of Kansas for local options
• Sliding fee scale services available

Southeast Kansas (Kansas City Area)

UMKC School of Dentistry

• Phone: (816) 235-2100
• Address: 650 E. 25th Street, Kansas City, MO
• Services: Comprehensive dental care at reduced costs

Johnson County Community College Dental Hygiene Clinic

• Phone: (913) 469-3808
• Cost: $10 for all services
• Location: Overland Park, KS

South-Central Kansas (Wichita Area)

Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center

• Phone: (316) 685-2221
• Services: VA dental benefits for qualifying veterans

Delta Dental of Kansas Clinic at Wichita State

• Phone: (316) 978-8350
• Email: aegd@wichita.edu
• Services: Advanced education in general dentistry clinic

Central Kansas (Salina Area)

Salina Area Technical College Dental Hygiene Clinic

• Phone: (785) 309-3146
• Address: 2562 Centennial Rd, Salina, KS 67401
• Hours: Wednesdays and Fridays, 8 AM – 4 PM (Fall semester)

Western Kansas

Community Health Centers

• Multiple FQHCs with sliding fee scales
• Contact Community Care Network of Kansas for locations

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Additional Resources and Verified Contacts

State Resources

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

• Oral Health Resources: kdhe.ks.gov/659/Finding-Dental-Care
• Phone: General information available through main number

KanCare (Kansas Medicaid)

• Website: KanCare.ks.gov
• Customer Service: (800) 792-4884
• Self-Service Portal: Medical Consumer Self-Service Portal

Kansas Dental Association

• Website: ksdental.org
• Public Resources: ksdental.org/for-the-public/comprehensive-dental-resources
• Phone: (785) 272-7360

Oral Health Kansas

• Website: oralhealthkansas.org
• Medicaid Information: oralhealthkansas.org/MedicaidAdultDentalBenefits.html
• Phone: (785) 235-6039
• Email: info@oralhealthkansas.org

National Resources

Dental Lifeline Network

• Phone: (303) 534-5360
• Dental Lifeline Network
• Phone: (303) 534-5360
• Kansas Coordinator: Anita Garbo, DDS – (785) 273-1900
• Website: dentallifeline.org/Kansas
• Email: agarbo@dentallifeline.org

Community Care Network of Kansas

• Website: communitycareks.org
• Services: Directory of safety net clinics statewide

Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)

• Find Health Centers: findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov
• Services: Locate Federally Qualified Health Centers nationwide

Veterans Resources

Department of Veterans Affairs

• Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
• Dental Benefits: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care

Kansas VA Medical Centers:

• Topeka (Colmery-O’Neil): (785) 350-3111
• Wichita (Robert J. Dole): (316) 685-2221
• Leavenworth (Dwight D. Eisenhower): (913) 682-2000

Emergency Resources

Poison Control (medication interactions)

• Phone: 1-800-222-1222
• Available: 24/7

Crisis and Mental Health Support

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
• Kansas Crisis Line: Contact 211 for local resources

Insurance and Benefits

Kansas Insurance Department

• Phone: (785) 296-3071
• Website: kid.ks.gov
• Services: Insurance questions and complaints

SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas)

• Phone: 1-800-860-5260
• Services: Medicare counseling and assistance

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Looking Ahead: What’s Changing in Kansas

Positive Developments

1. KanCare Dental Success: Kansas’s comprehensive adult dental benefits expansion continues to provide unprecedented access
2. New Dental School: Kansas City University College of Dental Medicine will help address regional dentist shortages
3. Community Health Center Growth: Federal funding supporting expansion of FQHC dental services
4. Managed Care Stability: Three MCOs (Sunflower, United Healthcare, Healthy Blue) selected for 2025-2027 contracts
5. Transportation Integration: Growing coordination between dental services and medical transportation

Ongoing Challenges

1. Rural Access: Limited provider availability in western and rural Kansas counties
2. Dentist Shortages: Nearly all counties within 125 miles of southwest Kansas qualify as Dental Health Professional Shortage Areas
3. Provider Participation: Need for more dentists to accept KanCare patients
4. Specialty Services: Limited access to dental specialists in rural areas

How to Stay Informed

• Follow Oral Health Kansas for policy updates and new programs
• Monitor Kansas Dental Association for provider news and events
• Check Kansas Mission of Mercy website for annual event updates
• Subscribe to KanCare updates through the self-service portal
• Contact community health centers regularly for new services

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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 Kansas Department of Health and Environment, KanCare administration, Oral Health Kansas, Kansas Dental Association, University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry, Dental Lifeline Network, 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 service availability.

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 medical or financial advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying. Dental program details, eligibility requirements, income limits, and contact information can change frequently. 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. Program availability and funding are subject to change based on federal and state legislation.

This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available dental care assistance programs.