Dental Grants in Nebraska
Last Updated on April 25, 2024 by Rachel
Nebraska can be a seniors’ small retirement heaven. The state has a low population density, meaning there’s space, and the community is close-knit. Moreover, the cost of living is low, since it does not neighbor any big towns. Its central geographic position makes it easy to travel out to any state. For seniors who still wish to work, Nebraska has a big job market they can take advantage of. On the flip side, the climatic conditions in Nebraska can be disturbing for seniors. Summers can be extreme, and winters can be too cold. Natural disasters are also common here. The weather changes require cooling and heating alternatives, which may cost an arm and a leg for retirees living on retirement benefits.
The weather and challenges that come with aging like dental diseases, may burden economically challenged senior citizens. External assistance from state, federal, and local agencies and other organizations is required to alleviate the suffering brought by financial constraints on them.
Are Dental Grants Legit in Nebraska?
Nebraska Dental Association, American Dental Association, Delta Dental of Nebraska, dental Lifeline Network, and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services are working day and night to improve the oral health of citizens in Nebraska. Dental grants are awarded to fund programs that provide therapeutic and restorative dental care services to the undeserving at no- or reduced costs.
How to Get Financial Help for Dental in Nebraska
Organizations that award dental grants approve applications from people who are:
- Above 65 years and are unable to be employed
- Medically compromised
- Unable to afford dental treatments
- Have a lifelong disability
The Donated Dental Services (DDS) does not provide emergency services, and one can only benefit from the program once. You can make your application through Dental Lifeline Networks.
Dental Grants: Dental grants are awarded to programs run by volunteer dentists that serve uninsured seniors, children, pregnant women, and people living with disabilities. Their purpose is to increase access to dental care services.
Cosmetic Dental Grants: Procedures covered through cosmetic dental grants are:
- Veneers
- Dentures
- Invisalign
- Crowns and caps
- Whitening
Dental Implant Grants: Dental implant grants provide low-income earners and uninsured individuals with the opportunity to receive affordable implants. You should talk to your local dentist to confirm that your grant covers implants.
Free Dental Implant Clinical Trials: Free dental implant clinical trials are a game changer for seniors on a budget. If you have a specific dental condition of interest to the research, you can receive implants for free or at discounted rates. The reason for these studies is to test new drugs and equipment used in dental practice to ensure they are safe and efficient. Participation is voluntary. For more information, visit the National Institute for Dental and Craniofacial Research.
The University of Nebraska Medical Center has student research programs that enable students to look into biomaterials and bio regulations that can be used to advance preventive and restorative dental treatments.
Charities that Help with Dental Costs
Mission of Mercy: Nebraska Mission of Mercy is a large-scale dental clinic held for two days to provide free dental services to anyone interested. The purpose of MOM is to increase the accessibility of dental care services and create awareness of dental-related matters. Services are on a first-come-first-served basis, and no emergency or surgical procedures are performed.
Clinic With A Heart: This faith-based organization has volunteer medical professionals who provide low-cost healthcare services to the uninsured. Clinic With A Heart offers dental examinations and medications but does not provide dental emergency or surgical treatments. The organization refers patients to affordable clinics and other organizations that can help with dental costs.
Free or Low-Cost Dental Clinics Near Me in Nebraska
Nebraska has more than 10 free or low-cost clinics run by volunteer dentists. The clinics offer no-cost, affordable, or reduced-cost services to the underprivileged in society. Not all dental clinics are free some require payments for lab tests and X-rays. To find these dental clinics nearest to you, you may make a web search like “Free dental clinics near me“.
- Lincoln Family Dentistry- Lincoln
- Third City Community Clinic- Grand Island
- Charles Drew Health Center- Omaha
- Preserve Family Dentistry- Lincoln
- Creighton Dental Clinic- Omaha
Does Medicare Pay for Dental Implants in Nebraska?
No, Medicare does not pay dental costs, including dental implants. However, Medicare has a plan available, the Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), offering the best dental coverage. It comes at an extra cost since it is provided by insurance companies and has a maximum dental benefit amount. To select the most suitable health insurance option, seniors have the choice of Medicare or private health insurance. It is vital to assess your healthcare necessities, financial capabilities, and individual preferences before deciding which one to opt for.
Programs Helping with Teeth Cleaning, Fillings, Decays and Root Canal Costs
Donated Dental Services: The DDS of Nebraska has 36 volunteer dentists and 20 laboratories. The program offers therapeutic and restorative treatments to ignored areas and communities.
Medicaid: Seniors with Medicaid coverage receive an annual dental benefit amount of $750 that covers dentures, partials, bridges, fillings, crowns, and cleanings. In addition to dental aid, other Medicaid services can provide valuable benefits to the elderly population.
SHARING Clinics: The University of Nebraska Medical Center’s program, Student Health Alliance Reaching Indigent Needy Groups (SHARING), provides supervised and affordable dental care services to underinsured and uninsured seniors.
Financial Assistance
Some charities, like Salvation Army, offer monetary aid depending on their available funds.
Supplemental Security Income is a monthly stipend paid to seniors above 65 to help them meet housing, clothing, and feeding needs. The Social Security Administration dispenses these funds to individuals depending on their income and assets.
Nebraska’s Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) is monetary assistance paid to ensure seniors live comfortably and independently in their households. Finances are used to pay for housing, furniture, and appliances. Moreover, AABD offers medical coverage to promote the wholesome well-being of seniors.
What Other Help Do Seniors in Nebraska Receive? Seniors in Nebraska receive home repair grants, food aid, grants for veterans, help to pay utility bills, transportation, and health-related resources like insurance covers.
Living in Nebraska can be challenging for seniors, but with proper resources in place for them, life here can be comfortable. Seniors require extra attention, especially on health matters, to ensure they live happy lives. The state and other organizations should prioritize senior issues and challenges by setting up safety nets for those in need to promote better living standards. For seniors in Nebraska seeking assistance beyond dental care, explore additional grants available to them. Learn more about grants for seniors in Nebraska here.