Dental Grants in Maine

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

Last updated: August 15, 2025

Medical Review: Content verified against current Maine health programs and federal guidelines

EMERGENCY DENTAL HELP – GET CARE TODAY

If you’re having a dental emergency right now:

Immediate Emergency Resources

1. UNE Oral Health Center (Portland)

• Address: 750 Stevens Ave., Portland, Maine 04103
• Phone: (207) 221-4747
• Urgent Care: Walk-in Monday-Thursday, 7:30 AM and 12:30 PM check-ins
• Cost: $77 evaluation fee
• Coverage: MaineCare and Northeast Delta Dental accepted

2. Community Dental Centers (Multiple Locations)

• Portland: (207) 874-1028
• Lewiston: (207) 777-7442
• Biddeford: (207) 282-1305
• Farmington: (207) 779-2659
• Rumford: (207) 369-3600
• Coverage: MaineCare accepted, sliding fee scales available

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: Social Security statement, bank statements from last 3 months
• Insurance Cards: MaineCare, Medicare, or private insurance if available
• Medical Info: Current medications list

Key Takeaways

Bottom Line: Maine expanded MaineCare dental coverage for adults 21 and older as of July 1, 2022, providing comprehensive dental benefits to over 200,000 Mainers. Additional free and low-cost options exist through community health centers and dental schools.

What You Need to Know Right Now:

• Major Improvement: MaineCare recipients ages 21 and older are automatically enrolled in expanded dental coverage, benefiting more than 200,000 Mainers
• Income Limits: To qualify for MaineCare, household income must meet federal poverty guidelines
• Free Dental Schools: UNE Oral Health Center and UMA dental hygiene clinics offer reduced-cost care
• Veterans Benefits: Maine Veterans’ Dental Network received $200,000 funding to continue services

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Understanding Maine’s Dental Care Landscape for Seniors

Maine’s Expanded MaineCare Coverage

Governor Janet Mills announced an expansion of MaineCare dental coverage for adults, which also increased reimbursement rates for dental providers starting July 1. This represents a major improvement from historical limitations.

What Changed in 2022:

• As of July 1, 2022, all individuals over age 21 years old have access to comprehensive dental coverage
• Providers serving children and adults can expect to see a 70 percent increase on average in support for diagnostic and preventative service rates
• Coverage now includes preventive, diagnostic, and restorative services

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

Source: American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association

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Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Maine Seniors

1. MaineCare (Maine’s Medicaid Program)

Current Status (2025): MaineCare covers comprehensive preventative, diagnostic, and restorative dental services for members age 21 and over. In some cases, MaineCare also covers dentures.

Services Covered:

• Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)
• Restorative care (fillings, crowns)
• Emergency treatment
• Extractions when necessary
• Some cases include denture coverage

Eligibility Requirements:

• Income must meet federal poverty guidelines
• Maine residency required
• Age 21 and older for comprehensive coverage

Application Process:

• Apply online at MyMaineConnection.gov
• Visit local Department of Health and Human Services office
• Call MaineCare Member Services at 1-800-977-6740

2. University of New England Oral Health Center

Why Consider UNE:

• Comprehensive oral health care for patients of all ages
• Services include cleanings, fillings, root canals, crowns, extractions, dentures, implants
• Student-provided care under faculty supervision means lower costs
• Urgent Care Walk-In Clinic available Monday-Thursday

Services Available:

• General dentistry procedures
• Emergency evaluation and management of urgent situations
• Preventive care and education
• Complex restorative work

Coverage and Costs:

• Northeast Delta Dental and MaineCare participating provider
• Urgent care evaluation fee is $77
• Payment expected at time of treatment

Contact Information:

• Phone: (207) 221-4747
• Address: 750 Stevens Ave., Portland, Maine 04103
• Email: oralhealthcenter@une.edu
• Hours: Monday-Friday 8 AM-12 PM and 1-5 PM

3. Community Dental Centers

Network Overview: Community Dental is a 501c3 nonprofit committed to improving the lives of children and adults in our communities. They provide comprehensive dental care at multiple locations.

Location Details:

Coverage and Payment:

• MaineCare and private insurance accepted
• Care Credit and all major credit and debit cards accepted
• Income-based sliding fee schedules available
• Serves southern, central, and western Maine residents

4. University of Maine Augusta Dental Hygiene Clinics

Two Locations:

Bangor Campus:

• Phone: (207) 262-7872
• Address: 201 Texas Avenue, Bangor, ME 04401
• Services: Preventive dental hygiene services
• Cost: 100% self-pay basis, no insurance accepted

Lewiston Campus:

• Phone: (207) 753-6600
• Address: 51 Westminster St, Suite 162, Lewiston, ME 04240

Services Provided:

• Comprehensive dental evaluations
• Teeth cleaning and polishing
• Fluoride treatments
• Dental hygiene education
• Give Kids a Smile events for children

Payment: Cash, check, and major credit cards accepted

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Maine Veterans Dental Benefits

Maine Veterans’ Dental Network

Program Status: Thanks to a generous $200,000 grant from Northeast Delta Dental, the Maine Veterans’ Dental Network will continue its services for veterans in need. Last year, the program enabled 357 Maine veterans to access comprehensive dental services.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a Maine resident
• Not 100% service-connected to the VA
• Cannot afford and/or does not have dental insurance
• For National Guard Only – Served on Active Duty (other than for training)
• Submit a DD-214 showing Honorable or General Under Honorable conditions discharge

Contact Information:

• Phone: (207) 287-6836
• Email: MVDN.mainebvs@maine.gov

Federal VA Dental Benefits

Full VA Dental Coverage Available For:

• Veterans with service-connected dental disability with compensation
• 100% service-connected disability rating OR Individual Unemployability
• Veterans enrolled in VA Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31)
• Recently discharged veterans with incomplete dental treatment

VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP):

• Discounted private dental insurance for Veterans and family members
• Available through Delta Dental or MetLife
• Savings up to 40% on covered procedures with in-network providers

VA Facilities in Maine:

• VA Maine Healthcare System Dental Clinic (Togus): (207) 623-8411
• Bangor Community Based Outpatient Clinic: (207) 561-3600

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Medicare and Insurance Options for Maine Seniors

Traditional Medicare Limitations

Reality Check: Medicare does not cover routine dental care for adults. The only exceptions:

• Hospital-based procedures requiring medical admission
• Medicare Part A may cover facility costs, but NOT the dental work itself

Medicare Advantage and Standalone Dental Plans

For adults who purchase their own stand-alone dental coverage through the exchange in Maine, premiums in 2025 range from about $23 to $61 per month.

Available Through Maine’s CoverME.gov:

• Two insurers offer stand-alone individual/family dental coverage through the health insurance Marketplace in Maine
• Plans comply with ACA rules for pediatric dental coverage
• Out-of-pocket maximums will be $425 per child in 2025 (or $850 for all children on a family’s plan)

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Patient Cost Scenarios: What Maine Seniors Actually Pay

Understanding Maine Dental Costs (2025)

| Service | Maine Average Cost | Notes | |—|—|—|—| | Adult Cleaning | $121.62 (16.3% higher than national average) | UNE/UMA clinics much lower | | Composite Filling | $206.37 (8.0% higher than national average) | Community centers offer sliding scale | | Porcelain Crown | $1,533.00 (16.5% higher than national average) | Student clinics significantly less | | Full Denture/Arch | $2,111.00 (11.1% higher than national average) | MaineCare may cover in some cases |

Scenario 1: Robert, Age 68, Veteran from Portland

Situation: Needs crown replacement, has 30% VA disability, Social Security income

• Best Option: Maine Veterans’ Dental Network + VADIP insurance
• Total Cost: Potentially $0 through veteran program, or reduced cost with VADIP
• Application: Contact MVDN at (207) 287-6836

Scenario 2: Mary, Age 72, Lewiston Resident

Situation: Needs cleaning and two fillings, income $1,400/month

• Qualifies for: MaineCare comprehensive dental coverage
• Total Cost: $0 with MaineCare
• Provider: Community Dental Lewiston (207) 777-7442

Scenario 3: James, Age 75, Rural Maine

Situation: Needs emergency extraction, income $2,200/month (above MaineCare limit)

• Best Option: UNE Oral Health Center urgent care
• Total Cost: $77 evaluation + extraction fees (payment plan available)
• Contact: (207) 221-4747

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Resources by Maine Region

Greater Portland Area

Primary Resources:

• UNE Oral Health Center: Full-service dental school clinic
• Community Dental Portland: (207) 874-1028, comprehensive services
• City of Portland Public Health: Homeless dental clinic services

Central Maine (Augusta/Waterville Area)

Available Services:

• Community Dental Farmington: (207) 779-2659
• Kennebec Valley Family Dentistry: (207) 623-3400, accepts MaineCare
• The Community Dental Center Waterville: (207) 872-8891

Northern Maine (Bangor Area)

Key Resources:

• UMA Bangor Dental Hygiene Clinic: (207) 262-7872
• Penobscot Community Dental Center: (207) 992-2152
• Katahdin Valley Health Center: Serves Millinocket and Houlton areas

Down East/Washington County

Available Options:

• Eastport Health Care: (207) 853-6001, full-service dental
• Harrington Family Health Center: (207) 483-4502
• Regional Medical Center Lubec: (207) 733-5541

York County (Southern Maine)

Primary Services:

• Community Dental Biddeford: (207) 282-1305
• York County Community Health Care: (207) 490-6900

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Special Populations and Inclusive Resources

LGBTQ+ Seniors

• All Community Dental locations provide non-discriminatory care
• UNE Oral Health Center has inclusive policies
• MaineCare prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity

Disabled Seniors

• Clinical Services, Portland provides services for clients with mental illness or intellectual disabilities
• Dorothea Dix Psychiatric Center offers IV sedation dentistry for clients with severe/profound intellectual disabilities
• All Community Dental locations are handicapped accessible

Tribal-Specific Resources

Federally Recognized Tribes in Maine:

Requirements: Must be member of federally recognized tribe with proper identification

Rural Seniors with Limited Access

• Transportation Assistance: Contact Area Agencies on Aging
• Mobile Services: Tooth Protectors, Inc. travels throughout Maine
• Telemedicine: Some community health centers offer dental consultations

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Donated Dental Services and Special Programs

Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program

How It Works: Free comprehensive dental care to needy disabled, aged and medically compromised individuals by dentists who volunteer their services.

Eligibility:

• Age 65 or older, OR permanently disabled
• Cannot afford dental treatment
• Condition must be severe enough to prohibit or significantly limit gainful employment
• Need extensive treatment (not just cleaning)

Application:

• Phone: 1-800-205-5615
• Website: dentallifeline.org/maine
• Important: Each patient receives services through this program only once

Senior-Dent Program

Program Status: Senior-Dent offers comprehensive dental care to low-income elderly persons at reduced fees.

Eligibility:

• Maine citizens age 62 and older
• No dental benefits under private insurance or MaineCare
• Annual income qualifies for Maine’s Low-Cost Drug program

Benefits:

• Minimum discount of 15 percent from usual fees of participating dentists

Contact: Area Agencies on Aging can determine eligibility

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Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

MaineCare Application

Required Documents:

• Photo identification
• Social Security card or proof of citizenship
• Income verification (3 months of statements)
• Proof of Maine residency

Application Methods:

1. Online: MyMaineConnection.gov
2. Phone: 1-877-543-7669
3. In Person: Local DHHS office
4. Mail: Download application from maine.gov

Community Health Center Process

Step 1: Contact Provider

• Call desired clinic directly
• Ask about current availability
• Confirm coverage accepted

Step 2: Gather Documentation

• Income verification for sliding fee
• Insurance cards
• Medical history
• Medication list

Step 3: Schedule Appointment

• Many accept walk-ins for emergencies
• Regular care requires appointment
• Ask about wait times

Tips for Success

1. Apply to Multiple Programs: Don’t rely on just one option
2. Keep Documentation Current: Income verification expires
3. Follow Up Appropriately: Call monthly for status updates
4. Plan Transportation: Factor travel time and costs
5. Understand Payment Policies: Some require payment at time of service

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Patient Success Stories

“I hadn’t seen a dentist in years because of the cost. When MaineCare expanded dental coverage, I finally got the crown I needed. The Community Dental Center in Lewiston was wonderful – they took my MaineCare and the staff was so patient with my anxiety.” – Eleanor M., Lewiston

“As a veteran, I struggled to afford dental care on my pension. The Maine Veterans’ Dental Network connected me with a local dentist who did my extractions and partial denture for free. It changed my life.” – Frank R., Bangor

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

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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

Avoid These Dental Scams

• Door-to-door dental services
• “Free” dental work with no legitimate income verification
• Pressure to sign up immediately
• Requests for Social Security numbers before verification
• “Mobile dental units” in parking lots without proper licensing

Warning: Medication Interactions

Always tell your dentist about:

• Blood thinners (Warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto)
• Bisphosphonates (Fosamax, Boniva)
• Diabetes medications
• Heart medications

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does MaineCare really cover dental care for adults now? A: Yes. As of July 1, 2022, all individuals over age 21 years old have access to comprehensive dental coverage through MaineCare.

Q: How much do dental procedures cost in Maine? A: Adult cleaning averages $121.62, composite fillings $206.37, porcelain crowns $1,533.00. Costs in Maine are generally 8-16% higher than national averages.

Q: Are there really free dental clinics in Maine? A: Yes, but most are income-based. MaineCare provides free care for eligible adults. UNE and UMA dental schools offer reduced-cost care. Community health centers provide sliding fee scales.

Q: Can veterans get free dental care in Maine? A: Some can. The Maine Veterans’ Dental Network served 357 veterans last year, and veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for full VA dental coverage.

Q: What should I do for a dental emergency with no money? A: Go to hospital ER for severe symptoms (swelling, fever). For urgent dental pain, try UNE Oral Health Center walk-in clinic or Community Dental emergency services.

Q: How long are waiting lists for free dental care? A: Varies significantly. MaineCare providers often available within weeks. Donated Dental Services may have longer waits. Community health centers typically see patients within 1-4 weeks.

Q: What income qualifies for free dental programs? A: MaineCare has specific income limits based on household size. Community health centers typically serve those at or below 200% of federal poverty level.

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Additional Resources and Verified Contacts

State Resources

Maine Department of Health and Human Services

• MaineCare Member Services: 1-800-977-6740
• Application Help: 1-877-543-7669
• Website: maine.gov/dhhs

Maine CDC Oral Health Program

• Phone: (207) 287-2361
• Address: 11 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0011

Regional Resources

Area Agencies on Aging:

• Aroostook County: (207) 764-3396
• Central Maine: 1-800-639-1553
• Eastern Maine: 1-800-432-7812
• Southern Maine: 1-800-427-7411
• Androscoggin/Franklin/Oxford: 1-800-427-1241

Veterans Resources

Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services

• Phone: (207) 287-6836
• Email: MVDN.mainebvs@maine.gov
• Website: maine.gov/veterans

Federal VA Resources

• VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
• VADIP Information: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/dental-insurance

Emergency Resources

Maine 211

• Phone: 2-1-1
• Website: 211maine.org
• Services: Information on local assistance programs

Poison Control (medication interactions)

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

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Income Eligibility Quick Reference (2025)

Federal Poverty Level Guidelines

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

MaineCare: Uses 138% FPL for most adults Community Health Centers: Often serve up to 200% FPL

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Action Plan for Maine Seniors Needing Dental Care

Step 1: Assess Your Situation

• Emergency? Go to ER for severe symptoms, UNE walk-in for urgent care
• MaineCare eligible? Apply immediately – expanded coverage available
• Veteran? Contact Maine Veterans’ Dental Network: (207) 287-6836
• Budget available? Consider UNE/UMA dental schools for reduced costs

Step 2: Gather Documentation

• Photo ID and proof of Maine residency
• Income verification (Social Security statement, bank statements)
• Insurance cards (Medicare, supplements, MaineCare if enrolled)
• Current medications list

Step 3: Apply in Strategic Order

If you qualify for MaineCare:

1. Apply at MyMaineConnection.gov or call 1-877-543-7669
2. Find provider at 1-800-977-6740
3. Schedule care with Community Dental or other MaineCare provider

If you’re a veteran:

1. Maine Veterans’ Dental Network: (207) 287-6836
2. VA dental benefits: 1-800-827-1000
3. VADIP insurance for additional coverage

If you need affordable care:

1. UNE Oral Health Center: (207) 221-4747
2. Local Community Dental center
3. UMA dental hygiene clinics

Step 4: Maintain Oral Health While Waiting

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed
• Rinse with warm salt water for minor discomfort
• See a doctor if you develop fever or facial swelling
• Avoid hard foods that could cause further damage

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Looking Ahead: Recent Improvements and Future Changes

Recent Positive Developments

• MaineCare dental expansion in 2022 benefiting over 200,000 Mainers
• $200,000 grant secured for Maine Veterans’ Dental Network
• Increased provider reimbursement rates encouraging participation

What to Watch For

• Potential federal Medicare dental benefit expansions
• Additional state funding for community health centers
• New mobile dental programs in rural areas

Stay Informed

• Follow Maine DHHS updates on dental programs
• Check Community Dental website for service expansions
• Monitor UNE Oral Health Center for new programs

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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 assistance.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including Maine Department of Health and Human Services, University of New England, Community Dental Centers, Veterans Affairs, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and verified nonprofit 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.