Dental Grants in Nebraska

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

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

If You Need Emergency Help Right Now

Dental emergencies require immediate attention. If you have severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, or fever with tooth pain, go to the nearest hospital emergency room immediately.

Emergency Resources Available Today

1. People’s City Mission Dental Clinic (Lincoln)

• Phone: (402) 817-0980
• Address: Lincoln, Nebraska
• Services: Free dental care for those experiencing homelessness, poverty, and the uninsured
• Note: Provides free dental services to those experiencing homelessness and poverty, the uninsured in Lincoln, Nebraska

2. OneWorld Emergency Dental Clinic (Omaha)

• Phone: (402) 401-6000
• Address: Multiple locations in Omaha
• Services: Emergency dental care, open to all community members Monday-Friday, follows a first-come, first-served model
• Coverage: Accepts Medicaid and uses sliding fee scale

3. UNMC College of Dentistry SHARING Clinics

• Phone: (402) 472-1333 (Lincoln) or main campus
• Services: Essential dental care delivered by student providers for complex dental emergencies
• Cost: Reduced fees compared to private practice

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Key Takeaways for Nebraska Seniors

Bottom Line: Nebraska eliminated its annual dollar limit on dental benefits effective January 1, 2024, making Medicaid dental coverage more comprehensive than most states. However, accessing care still requires navigating multiple systems and meeting specific requirements.

What You Need to Know:

• Medicaid Improvement: Nebraska eliminated its $750-per-year adult dental benefit limit in January 2024
• Income Limits: 2025 Federal Poverty Level is $15,650 annually ($1,304 monthly) for individuals
• Free Care Available: Multiple verified free dental clinics operate statewide
• Documentation Required: Photo ID, income verification, and residency proof needed for most programs

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Understanding Nebraska’s Dental Care Landscape

Medicaid Dental Coverage Expansion

Effective January 1, 2024, Nebraska eliminated its annual dollar limit on dental benefits, representing a significant improvement for seniors. Adults enrolled in Medicaid in Nebraska are eligible for limited dental services with an annual cap of $750 was the previous policy, but this limitation has been removed.

How Nebraska Medicaid Dental Works

Beginning January 1, 2024, dental services are provided by the Member’s health plan: Molina, Nebraska Total Care, or UnitedHealthcare. This managed care approach means:

• You must choose a Primary Dentist from your plan’s network
• Your Primary Dentist will help coordinate all of your oral health needs
• Transportation assistance may be available through your plan

Current Challenges

Despite improvements, challenges remain:

• Very few dentists in Nebraska are accepting Medicaid patients
• Wait times for non-emergency care can extend 2-6 months
• Rural areas have limited dental provider availability

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Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs

1. People’s City Mission Dental Clinic (Lincoln)

Current Status:

• Over 2,500 patients seen for free dental care last year
• Operates as part of comprehensive healthcare services for low-income residents

Services Available:

• Emergency dental care
• Routine dental services
• Restorative procedures
• Pain management

Contact Information:

• Phone: (402) 817-0980
• Email: phupp@pcmlincoln.org
• Volunteer Coordinator: Patrick Hupp

Reality Check: For most lower income folks in Lincoln, going to the dentist is more than they can afford. Even on Medicaid, the annual benefit for adults in Nebraska is only $750 (Note: This quote predates the 2024 benefit expansion)

2. OneWorld Community Health Centers (Omaha)

Multiple Locations:

• Grant Street: 2915 Grant Street, Omaha, NE 68111, (402) 453-1433
• South 30th Street: 4920 South 30th Street, Omaha, NE 68107

Services and Fees:

• Dental services on a sliding fee scale based on patient income
• Full range of dental care including minor oral surgery, extractions, emergency treatment, crowns, dentures and dental implant restoration services
• Accepts Medicaid and most insurance

Payment Options:

• Cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover
• Medicare and Medicaid accepted
• Proof of one month’s worth of income required to determine fees

3. UNMC College of Dentistry

Lincoln Campus:

• Address: 4000 East Campus Loop South, Lincoln, NE 68583-0740
• Phone: (402) 472-1333
• Hours: Monday-Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Services:

• Compassionate, comprehensive dental care provided by dental and dental hygiene students supervised by nationally renowned faculty
• As a dental school, many of our clinics offer reduced rates

Important Medicaid Update: As of March 1, 2025, we are only accepting new Medicaid patients in our Pediatric Dental Clinic and Postgraduate Clinics (referrals for specialty dental services)

4. SHARING Clinics Program

What It Is: Student Health Alliance Reaching Indigent Needy Groups (SHARING) provides supervised and affordable dental care services to underinsured and uninsured seniors through UNMC.

How It Works:

• Dental SHARING Clinics provide patients with essential dental care delivered by student providers
• Students gain hands-on experience while serving the community
• Many SHARING Clinic cases involve complex dental emergencies

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Nebraska Medicaid Dental Coverage Details

Eligibility Requirements

Income Limits (2025):

• Single Nursing Home Medicaid applicant must have income under $1,305/month
• Regular Medicaid varies but generally follows federal poverty guidelines

Federal Poverty Level Chart (2025):

Covered Services

With the elimination of the annual cap, Nebraska Medicaid now covers:

• Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)
• Restorative care (fillings, crowns)
• Emergency services
• Extractions
• Limited oral surgery

Managed Care Plans

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has signed contracts with Molina Healthcare, Nebraska Total Care, and United Healthcare for dental services under Heritage Health program.

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Regional Resources by Area

Lincoln Area

East Central District Health Department – Good Neighbor Community Health Center

• Address: 3140 N St, Lincoln, NE 68510
• Phone: (402) 441-8015
• Services: Emergency, routine and preventive dental services provided at reduced fees

Lincoln-Lancaster Health Department

• Address: 1701 S. 17th Street, Ste. 4G, Lincoln, NE 68502
• Phone: (402) 421-2924
• Services: Free urgent dental care during Tuesday evening hours for clients with tooth pain

Omaha Area

OneWorld Community Health Centers (Multiple locations as listed above)

• Full-service dental care with sliding fee scale

Statewide Public Health Departments

Many of Nebraska’s Public Health Departments or community health clinics offer some level of dental service. Services include:

• Miles of Smiles program utilizing Public Health Authorized Registered Dental Hygienists to conduct oral screening examinations and apply fluoride varnish
• Mobile dental clinics in some areas
• School-based preventive services

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Veterans Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic

2025 VetMOM Event

Dates: Friday, September 26, from 8 am to 5 pm, and Saturday, September 27, from 8 am to 3:30 pm Location: Army National Guard Titan Readiness Center, 789 County Road J, Yutan

Eligibility: Any individual who served in the U.S. Armed Forces or a component of the U.S. Armed Forces, regardless of type of service—active, reserve, or guard—and/or spouses or surviving spouses of eligible veterans

Services Provided:

• Range of free dental services including dentures
• Emergency dental care
• Preventive services

Important Note: Denture appointments full – if you need denture services, contact NDVA at 402-890-0999 to be added to the waitlist

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Cost Comparison: What Nebraska Seniors Pay

Typical Dental Costs in Nebraska

Based on national averages, Nebraska seniors can expect:

• Routine cleaning: $75-$150
• Composite filling: $150-$300
• Crown: $800-$1,500
• Root canal: $700-$1,200
• Complete dentures: $1,200-$3,000
• Single implant: $3,000-$5,000

Cost Savings at Different Programs

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Special Populations

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Nebraska’s free and low-cost dental clinics welcome all patients regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. OneWorld Community Health Centers and People’s City Mission specifically emphasize inclusive care for all community members.

Veteran Seniors

VA Dental Benefits:

• Contact VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
• Veterans Mission of Mercy provides free dental services annually
• VA Medical Centers may provide dental care for service-connected disabilities

Disabled Seniors

Additional Resources:

• Medicaid programs have differing financial and medical eligibility requirements that may benefit disabled seniors
• SHARING clinics accommodate patients with disabilities
• Transportation assistance available through Medicaid managed care plans

Tribal-Specific Resources

Nebraska Urban Indian Health Coalition Medical Center

• Provides professional primary health care clinic with culturally and linguistically appropriate care for Native Americans
• Accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and Kids Connection
• May include dental services

Rural Seniors with Limited Access

Challenges:

• Limited dentist availability in rural counties
• Transportation barriers
• Longer wait times for specialists

Solutions:

• Mobile dental clinics available in some areas
• Telehealth consultations for treatment planning
• Transportation assistance through Area Agencies on Aging

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Application Process Guide

Required Documentation

For Most Programs:

• Photo identification (driver’s license or state ID)
• Proof of income (Social Security statements, tax returns, pay stubs)
• Proof of Nebraska residency (utility bills, lease agreement)
• Insurance cards (if applicable)
• Current medication list

Step-by-Step Application

1. Emergency Care:

• Call ahead to verify availability
• Bring ID and any insurance cards
• Explain your emergency situation

2. Regular Care Programs:

• Contact programs directly by phone
• Complete intake paperwork
• Provide required documentation
• Schedule initial appointment

3. Medicaid Application:

• Apply online at ACCESSNebraska.ne.gov
• Call (855) 632-7633 for assistance
• Allow 30-45 days for processing

Wait Times Reality Check

• Emergency care: Same day to 48 hours
• Free clinics: 2-6 months for routine care
• UNMC dental school: 2-8 weeks for initial appointment
• Medicaid-accepting dentists: 1-4 months

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Nebraska Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: Yes. Effective January 1, 2024, Nebraska eliminated its annual dollar limit on dental benefits, significantly improving coverage for adults.

Q: What income qualifies me for free dental care? A: Most free programs require income at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Level, which is $23,475 annually for individuals in 2025.

Q: How long are waiting lists for free dental care? A: Wait times vary from same-day emergency care to 6 months for routine services. People often resort to hospital emergency rooms as a last-resort treatment option to alleviate dental pain.

Q: Can I get dentures through these programs? A: Yes. Free clinics, UNMC dental school, and Medicaid all cover dentures, though wait times may be longer for this service.

Q: What should I do for a dental emergency if I have no money? A: If you have a dental emergency call your primary dentist for direction. You can also go to the nearest emergency room. For severe symptoms (facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever), go directly to the hospital.

Q: Are there dental grants specifically for implants? A: While no state grants specifically fund implants, some programs like Cosmetic Dentistry Grants provide financial assistance for dentures, implants, and cosmetic dentistry procedures, though they require good credit and don’t cover full costs.

Q: How often can I receive free dental care? A: This varies by program. Emergency care is available as needed, while routine care may be limited to once or twice per year depending on funding.

Q: Do I need to be a Nebraska resident to access these programs? A: Yes, most programs require proof of Nebraska residency. However, emergency care cannot be denied regardless of residency status.

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Resources by Region

Greater Omaha Area

OneWorld Community Health Centers

• Grant Street: (402) 453-1433
• South 30th Street Location
• Sliding fee scale, accepts Medicaid

Charles Drew Health Center

• Multiple locations
• Community health center with dental services

Lincoln Area

People’s City Mission Dental Clinic

• (402) 817-0980
• Free dental care for uninsured/low-income

UNMC College of Dentistry – Lincoln Campus

• (402) 472-1333
• Reduced-cost care by students

East Central District Health Department

• (402) 441-8015
• Reduced fees, accepts Medicaid

Rural Nebraska

Local Public Health Departments

• Many of Nebraska’s Public Health Departments offer some level of dental service
• Contact your county health department for local options

Area Agencies on Aging

• Transportation assistance to dental appointments
• Information on local resources

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Financial Assistance Options

CareCredit Healthcare Financing

How It Works:

• Healthcare credit card for dental expenses
• Promotional periods with no interest if paid in full
• Warning: High interest rates (often 26.99% APR) if not paid during promotional period

Dental Discount Plans

Available Options:

• Not insurance, but provide discounted rates
• Monthly or annual membership fees
• Can be used at participating Nebraska dentists

Payment Plans

Many dental offices offer:

• Monthly payment arrangements
• No-interest financing for qualified patients
• Reduced fees for cash payments

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Warning Signs and Red Flags

When to Seek Emergency Care Immediately

• Severe facial swelling affecting eye opening or swallowing
• High fever (over 101°F) with dental pain
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Uncontrolled bleeding from mouth
• Jaw injury affecting ability to open/close mouth

Avoid These Dental Scams

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

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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 assistance.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, CMS), Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, UNMC College of Dentistry, verified nonprofit organization resources, and official program documentation.

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. 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 assistance programs.