Dental Grants in Louisiana
Free and Low-Cost Dental Care for Louisiana Seniors: Complete 2025 Guide
Last Updated: August 2025 | Medical Review: Content verified against current Louisiana Medicaid policies and federal poverty guidelines
If You Need Emergency Dental Help
If you’re having a dental emergency right now:
Emergency Resources – Get Care Today
1. LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry Emergency
- Address: 1100 Florida Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119
- Phone: (504) 619-8770 or (504) 619-8700
- Cost: Significantly reduced – approximately 25-33% of private practice costsâ¹
- Services: Emergency extractions, pain management, infection treatment
2. Hospital Emergency Rooms
- When to Go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
- What They Do: Emergency stabilization and pain management only – they cannot perform dental procedures
- Cost: Expensive, but required to provide emergency assessment
3. Louisiana Mission of Mercy (Next Event)
- Location: Check Louisiana Dental Association website for next dateâ²
- Services: First-come, first-served free dental care
- No appointments needed: Line forms early (sometimes the night before)
Emergency Documentation Checklist
- Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Income verification (Social Security statement, bank statements)
- Medical information (current medications, insurance cards)
- Cash or payment method for reduced-cost care
Key Takeaways
Bottom Line: Louisiana has expanded Medicaid dental coverage for certain adults, but most seniors still need alternative options. Multiple verified programs exist, though most have wait times and income requirements.
What You Need to Know Right Now:
- Louisiana Medicaid: Covers dental for adults with developmental/intellectual disabilities through waiver programsâ³, but not regular adults
- Free Options: Donated Dental Services program and periodic Mission of Mercy events
- Reduced Cost: LSU dental school offers care at 25-33% of private practice costs
- Income Limits: Most free programs require income at or below Federal Poverty Level ($15,650 for individuals in 2025)
Reality Check: Wait times for free dental care in Louisiana can range from 2-18 months depending on the program.
Understanding Louisiana’s Dental Coverage for Seniors
Medicaid Dental Coverage – The Current Situation
Louisiana contracts with DentaQuest and MCNA Dental to provide dental benefits for qualified Medicaid enrollees. However, coverage is extremely limited for most adults:
Who Gets Coverage:
- Children under 21 (comprehensive coverage)
- Adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities enrolled in New Opportunities Waiver, Residential Options Waiver, or Supports Waiver (over 12,000 people as of July 2022)
- Adults qualifying for specific waiver programs
What Most Seniors Get:
- $500 annual allowance for specific dental services including preventive care, cleanings, fillings, and some denture services
- Must use in-network providers
Health Impact for Seniors
Poor oral health significantly impacts overall health in seniors:
- Heart Disease: Gum disease bacteria can enter bloodstream
- Diabetes Control: Gum disease makes blood sugar management harder
- Pneumonia Risk: Oral bacteria can be aspirated into lungs
- Nutrition: Tooth loss affects ability to eat healthy foods
Verified Free Dental Programs for Louisiana Seniors
1. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program
Current Status: Nearly 300 people in Louisiana are on a waiting list to be matched with volunteer dentists, but the program received additional funding from Blue Cross Foundation.
Who Qualifies:
- Age 65 or older
- Permanently disabled individuals receiving SSI/Social Security disability
- Medically compromised adults with conditions like cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease
Services Provided:
- Comprehensive dental treatment through volunteer dentists
- DDS volunteers provide treatment through 390 dentists and 78 dental laboratories across Louisiana
- Full mouth rehabilitation when needed
Income Requirements:
- At or below Federal Poverty Level ($15,650 annually for individuals in 2025)
- Cannot afford dental care or receive it through other programs
Application Process:
- Call Louisiana DDS coordinator: (800) 946-6016 or (225) 926-8062
- Complete application and provide income verification
- The Louisiana DDS program has provided nearly $12 million in donated services to 5,498 patients since 1987
Reality Check: Current wait times can be 12-18 months due to high demand.
2. 232-HELP Donated Dental Program (Acadiana Region)
Service Area: Acadia, Avoyelles, Evangeline, Iberia, Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin, and Vermilion parishes
Eligibility:
- Age 60 or older, OR handicapped adults 18+ receiving SSI/disability, OR medically compromised adults 18+
- Income at or below Federal Poverty Guidelines
Services Available:
- Simple extractions (1-5 teeth)
- Restorations (fillings, front root canals, crowns)
- Treatment of abscesses
Services NOT Provided:
- Cleanings, full mouth extractions, back root canals, dentures, bridge work
Contact Information:
- Phone: (337) 232-4357
- Address: P.O. Box 52763, Lafayette, LA 70505
3. LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry
Why Consider LSU:
- Fees are generally between one-third and one-fourth the price of private practice
- Full range of dental services available
- Modern facilities with latest technology
Cost Examples (Based on 2014 Data – Call for Current Rates):
- Root canals: approximately $90 (vs. $800+ private practice)
- Comprehensive dental care at significantly reduced rates
What to Expect:
- Initial screening appointment required
- Treatment by dental students under faculty supervision
- They cannot be a permanent dental home – after treatment completion, you’re released to maintain care in private practice
Contact Information:
- Phone: (504) 619-8770 or (504) 619-8700
- Address: 1100 Florida Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119
- Website: lsusd.lsuhsc.edu
4. Louisiana Mission of Mercy (LaMOM)
What It Is: Large-scale dental clinics that transform locations into comprehensive dental facilities over multiple days
Services Provided:
- Dental cleanings, exams, x-rays, fillings, extractions, anterior root canals, limited partial dentures, and children’s dental care
- First-come, first-served basis
- No income requirements or paperwork
Past Impact:
- 2023 event: 1,534 patient visits, $1,067,760.35 worth of free dental care
- 2018 Baton Rouge event: 1,473 patient visits, over $1 million in free care
How to Participate:
- Monitor Louisiana Dental Association website for next event dates
- Lines generally form outside much earlier than opening time, sometimes the evening before
- No appointments – first-come, first-served
Regional Programs by Louisiana Area
New Orleans Metro Area
LSU Health School of Dentistry (Primary Option)
- Full range of services at reduced costs
- Multiple specialty clinics available
Love Heals Free Clinic
- Periodic free health, dental, and vision clinics
- No appointment necessary – first-come, first-served
- Check website: lovehealstheboot.com for dates
Acadiana Region (Lafayette Area)
232-HELP Donated Dental Program
- Serves 8 parishes in Acadiana region
- Income requirements apply
St. Bernadette’s Clinic
- Address: 409 St. John Street, Lafayette, LA 70501
- Phone: (337) 267-1437
- Walk-in clinic for dental pain evaluation and infection treatment
North Louisiana
Quality of Life Health Services
- Multiple locations providing routine dental care
- Income-based sliding fee scale
Statewide Programs
Dental Lifeline Network DDS
- Operates in all Louisiana parishes
- Volunteer dentist matching program
Veterans Dental Benefits in Louisiana
VA Medical Centers in Louisiana
Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System
- New Orleans VA Medical Center: 2400 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70119
- Baton Rouge VA Clinic: Full dental services for eligible veteransâ⁴
VA Dental Eligibility Classes
| VA Class | Who Qualifies | Coverage Level |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Service-connected dental disability | Any needed dental care |
| Class 2 | Recently discharged (within 180 days) | One-time comprehensive care |
| Class 4 | 100% disability rating or unemployability | Any needed dental care |
| Class 5 | Vocational rehabilitation enrollees | Care related to rehab goals |
VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)
Who Can Enroll:
- Veterans enrolled in VA health care
- CHAMPVA beneficiaries (veterans’ family members)
Coverage Options:
- Delta Dental plans: Enhanced and Comprehensive options
- MetLife plans: Various coverage levels
- Coverage available throughout United States and territories
Contact Information:
- VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
- Delta Dental VADIP: 855-370-3303
- MetLife VADIP: Check va.gov for current number
Special Population Resources
LGBTQ+ Seniors
Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System
- Promotes health, welfare, and dignity of Veterans who identify as LGBTQ+ in a safe environment
- Specialized care coordination available
Love Heals Free Clinic
- Services available regardless of race, religion, orientation or status
Disabled Seniors
Louisiana Medicaid Waiver Programs
- Comprehensive dental coverage for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities in waiver programs
- Covers diagnostic, preventive, restorative, endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, oral surgery, orthodontics, and emergency care
Donated Dental Services Priority
- Prioritizes finding care for those with permanent disabilities
- Accommodations available for physical accessibility needs
Rural Seniors with Limited Access
Transportation Assistance:
- Contact Louisiana 211: Dial 2-1-1 for transportation resources
- Some VA facilities provide transportation assistance
Teledentistry Options:
- MCNA offers teledentistry visits for immune-compromised members
- Virtual consultations available through some providers
Veteran Seniors
Priority Programs:
- Dental Lifeline Network prioritizes veterans that have a disability, are elderly, or in need of life-saving care
- VA benefits may cover comprehensive care for eligible veterans
Current Dental Costs in Louisiana (2025 Data)
Typical Private Practice Costs
| Service | Louisiana Average | National Range |
|---|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning | $95-$150 | $75-$200 |
| Composite Filling | $200-$400 | $150-$450 |
| Porcelain Crown | $900-$1,500 | $800-$1,700 |
| Root Canal (Molar) | $800-$1,400 | $700-$1,600 |
| Complete Dentures | $1,200-$3,000 | $1,000-$3,500 |
| Dental Implant | $2,500-$5,000 | $2,000-$6,000 |
LSU Dental School Pricing
- General Rule: 25-33% of private practice costs
- Example: Root canals for approximately $90
- Payment Options: CareCredit accepted, payment plans available
Income Eligibility Quick Reference (2025)
| Household Size | 100% Federal Poverty Level | 150% FPL | 200% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Income | |||
| 1 person | $15,650 | $23,475 | $31,300 |
| 2 people | $21,150 | $31,725 | $42,300 |
| Monthly Income | |||
| 1 person | $1,304 | $1,956 | $2,608 |
| 2 people | $1,763 | $2,644 | $3,525 |
Most free programs require 100% FPL or less
Action Plan: Step-by-Step Guide for Louisiana Seniors
Step 1: Assess Your Situation
- Emergency? Call LSU emergency line or go to hospital ER for severe symptoms
- Veteran? Call VA benefits: 1-800-827-1000
- Income under $15,650? You qualify for most free programs
- Have transportation to New Orleans? LSU offers best reduced-cost option
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport)
- Income verification (Social Security award letter, bank statements from last 3 months)
- Medical information (medication list, conditions summary)
- Proof of residency (utility bills, lease agreement)
Step 3: Apply in Strategic Order
For All Louisiana Seniors:
- Donated Dental Services: Call (800) 946-6016 (expect long wait)
- LSU School of Dentistry: Call (504) 619-8770 for screening
- Monitor for Mission of Mercy events: Check ladental.org regularly
For Acadiana Region Residents:
- 232-HELP: Call (337) 232-4357 first
- LSU as backup option
For Veterans:
- VA benefits first: 1-800-827-1000
- VADIP insurance if partially eligible
- LSU or civilian programs as needed
Step 4: While You Wait
- Maintain oral hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Manage pain safely: Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
- Avoid hard foods that could cause further damage
- Rinse with warm salt water for minor infections
- See a doctor if you develop fever or facial swelling
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Louisiana Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: Limited coverage. Louisiana Medicaid provides a $500 annual allowance for specific dental services, but this is mainly for basic preventive care. Full coverage is only available to those in specific waiver programs.
Q: How long are wait times for free dental care in Louisiana? A: Varies significantly. Donated Dental Services has nearly 300 people on waiting lists, with waits of 12-18 months. LSU appointments are typically 2-6 weeks.
Q: What income qualifies for free dental programs? A: Most require income at or below Federal Poverty Level: $15,650 annually ($1,304 monthly) for individuals in 2025.
Q: Can veterans get free dental care in Louisiana? A: Some can. Veterans with service-connected dental disabilities, 100% disability ratings, or recent discharge may qualify for comprehensive VA dental care.
Q: When is the next Louisiana Mission of Mercy event? A: Check the Louisiana Dental Association website for current dates. These are typically annual events at different locations.
Q: Is LSU dental school safe and quality care? A: Yes. Students work under faculty supervision, and the school maintains modern facilities with the latest technology.
Q: What should I do for a dental emergency with no money? A: Go to a hospital emergency room for severe symptoms (swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing). For urgent dental pain, call LSU at (504) 619-8770.
Q: Are there mobile dental clinics in Louisiana? A: Limited availability. Contact Louisiana 211 (dial 2-1-1) for current mobile clinic schedules in your area.
Warning Signs and Red Flags
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 involving multiple teeth
Avoid These Dental Scams
- Door-to-door dental services
- “Free” dental work with no income verification
- Pressure to sign up immediately without clear information
- Requests for Social Security numbers before program verification
- “Mobile dental units” in parking lots without proper licensing
Legitimate Program Characteristics
- Income verification always required
- Licensed facilities and dentists
- Clear information about costs, coverage, and wait times
- No upfront fees for applications (except LSU screening fee)
- Established physical addresses and verifiable phone numbers
Resources
Primary Contact Numbers
Emergency Dental Care:
- LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry: (504) 619-8770
- Louisiana 211 (local resources): Dial 2-1-1
Free Dental Programs:
- Donated Dental Services Louisiana: (800) 946-6016 or (225) 926-8062
- 232-HELP (Acadiana): (337) 232-4357
Veterans:
- VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
- Southeast Louisiana VA: (800) 935-8387
Medicaid/Insurance:
- DentaQuest Louisiana: 1-800-685-0143
- MCNA Dental Louisiana: 1-855-702-6262
Government Resources
Louisiana Department of Health
- Website: ldh.la.gov
- Medicaid questions: healthy@la.gov or (225) 342-7877
Louisiana Dental Association
- Website: ladental.org/public-resources
- Mission of Mercy information and community clinic listings
National Resources
Dental Lifeline Network
- Website: dentallifeline.org
- National donated dental services program
Federal Resources
- Federal Poverty Guidelines: aspe.hhs.gov
- Veterans dental benefits: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/
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 the Louisiana Department of Health, Louisiana Dental Association, LSU Health New Orleans, VA medical centers, Dental Lifeline Network, and verified healthcare organizations.
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 current availability.
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.
Sources
- Gambit Weekly New Orleans: Low-cost dental care at the LSU School of Dentistry (2014)
- Louisiana Dental Association: Louisiana Mission of Mercy
- Louisiana Department of Health: Louisiana Medicaid expands dental care coverage for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities
- VA Southeast Louisiana Health Care: Baton Rouge VA Clinic
- Humana Healthy Horizons Louisiana: Dental Coverage
- MCNA Dental Louisiana: Members Information
- Louisiana Department of Health: Dental Services
- DentaQuest Louisiana: EPSDT Dental Program
- Louisiana Dental Association: Community Clinics
- Cajun Area Agency on Aging: 232-HELP Donated Dental Services
- CAJUNDOME: Free Dental Care Events
- Louisiana Healthcare Connections: Free Health, Dental & Vision Clinics
- Dental Lifeline Network: Louisiana Program
- Love Heals Free Clinic
- LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry
- VA Dental Care Benefits
- VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: 2025 Poverty Guidelines
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. Dental program details, eligibility requirements, income limits, and contact information can change frequently. Always verify current information directly with the relevant organization before making decisions about your dental care. Income limits and program availability are subject to change based on federal and state legislation and funding availability. All costs and statistics cited are from the sources indicated and were accurate as of the publication date shown. Medical advice should always be sought from qualified healthcare professionals.
This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available dental care assistance programs.