Dental Grants in Nevada

Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Rachel

Nevada can be a welcoming state for seniors because it lacks a state income tax, has low property taxes, its warm weather is divine, and is culturally and racially diverse. In addition, there are many outdoor activities older adults with a lot of time on their hands can enjoy.


However, a few cons may make the elderly think twice about becoming a Nevadan. The state has a high cost of living which beats the point of not having an income tax, high crime and accident rates, and summers can get too hot, making cooling options necessary. The urban parts of Nevada have traffic jams that can make traveling a nightmare for the elderly.

The high cost of living has made amenities like medical bills, dental care, utility bills, and other expenses too expensive, especially for ignored populations and communities. These factors have influenced the relevant authorities to take measures to ensure Nevadans afford basic needs and resources to enable them to live healthy and happy lives.

Are There Grants For Dental In Nevada?

In a national analysis of health data in Nevada, reports show that the state has a shortage of healthcare providers compared to the USA overall. For dental providers, Clark County has a dentist for every 1,593 Nevadans, and Washoe County and Carson City each have one dentist for every 1,433 and 1,001 citizens, respectively. The situation is dire in the rural areas, with Storey having zero dentists while, in Lander, one dentist serves 5,514 Nevadans.

In 2020, 64.4% of seniors above 65 visited a dentist that year, a rise from 63.7% in 2016. Moreover, a larger percentage of seniors with a higher education level visited a dental clinic compared to those with lower education levels. Households with more than $75,000 income saw dental providers more often than those that earned below $25,000.

The shortage of dental providers, education level, and income have influenced the oral health of Nevadans. The cost of care is the biggest influencer on the frequency of dental visits for insured and uninsured patients. The local, state and federal governments develop strategies to ease the burden of dental costs on citizens to ensure they do not neglect their oral health. One of the strategies is dental grants for the less fortunate Nevadans.

How To Find Financial Help For Dental Care In Nevada

There are agencies, both government and non-government, that are stakeholders in promoting the oral health of Nevadans. The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services has a branch, the Aging and Disability Services Division (ADSD), responsible for elderly citizens’ welfare. ADSD has programs like the Medicare Assistance Program that helps seniors settle their dental costs.

American Dental Association, Dental Lifeline Network, Nevada Dental Association, and private dentists are working together to:

  • Increase dental access to uninsured and underinsured Nevadans
  • Promote the building and operation of dental clinics to expand existing dental care
  • Sponsor students interested in dentistry courses

Not everyone is eligible for dental grants. The eligibility criteria for the grants are specific to an organization. The Donated Dental Services in Nevada accept applicants that meet either one of the following criteria:

  • Require medically necessary dental care
  • Have a lifelong disability
  • Lack of any means of affording treatment
  • Are above 65 and are unable to work for an income

The program does not provide cosmetic treatments or emergency services because of the number of applicants. You can make your application online through Dental Lifeline Networks.

Dental Grants

Dental grants are awarded to improve the oral health of the underprivileged in society who lack the means of affording dental care services.

Cosmetic Dental Grants

Some dental grants cover the costs of expensive cosmetic dental procedures like dentures, veneers, crowns, and Invisalign that are not covered by insurance companies.

Dental Implant Grants

Older adults experience tooth loss and require dental implants to restore their confidence. Retirees with no active income opt for dental implant grants to help them pay for the costly treatments.

Free Dental Implant Clinical Trials

Dental implant clinical trials are held to ensure the progression of dental care for the efficiency and safety of patients during treatment. Participation in the clinical trials is voluntary and only patients with dental problems of interest qualify to be part of the study. Visit the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research to learn more about ongoing studies you can benefit from.

Dental Schools

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, School of Dental Medicine offers reduced-cost dental care services to eligible patients. First, you will book a screening appointment which will determine if you qualify for treatment. Next, you will be matched to a student doctor offering dental care services and performing dental treatments under strict supervision. The dental school has:

  1. General Dental Clinics: Costs the least, but has a long waiting list.
  2. Graduate Specialty Clinic: Services are provided by licensed dentists pursuing advanced degrees. The treatments cost more than in general dental clinics.
  3. Faculty Dental Practice: Dental care services are offered by licensed faculty dental providers, cost more, standards are similar to private practice and they accept a wider range of insurance covers.

Are There Charities/ Local Organizations That Help With Dental Costs?

Community Health Alliance

Although the Community Health Alliance focuses on children’s needs, the organization makes exceptions for seniors that require emergency dental care.

Mission of Mercy

For over 20 years, Mission of Mercy, with the help of over 200 volunteer dental providers, has offered free dental care and medication to uninsured and underinsured Nevadans. The two-day event entails on-site mobile dental clinics that provide screening, cleanings, dental examinations, and restorative care on a first-come-first-served basis.

Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada

In extreme conditions, Catholic Charities provide financial assistance to seniors to help them pay for expenses like medical bills, utility bills, rent, and dental costs. Numerous other churches provide services and programs to assist the elderly in their locality. It is advisable to contact nearby churches to explore the services and programs they provide.

Are There Free Or Low-cost Dental Clinics In Nevada?

  1. UNLV Dental School- Las Vegas
  2. Elko Family Medical & Dental- Elko
  3. Community Health Alliance- Reno, Sparks
  4. Affordable Dental- Laughlin
  5. Sunstone Dental Care- Henderson
  6. US Dental Group- Las Vegas

This is just a small list for those looking for affordable or sliding fee scale dental clinics.

Does Medicare Cover Dental Implants In Nevada?

Dental insurance, unless medically necessary, is not covered by Original Medicare plans. However, Medicare does have options that cover dental costs, including dental implants. With your Medicare Advantage premium, your preventive care services like cleanings, x-rays, and fluoride treatments are catered for. For comprehensive dental care services, you can get dental coverage from private insurance for roughly $30 to $60. To determine which healthcare option is more suitable for your needs, familiarize yourself with the differences between Medicare and private health insurance.

Are There Grants Or Programs For Helping With Fillings, Decay, Cleanings And Root Canals Costs?

Most reduced-cost clinics offer fillings, decay, cleanings, and root canals at discounted prices. Also, speak to your dentist about discounts you can benefit from as a regular patient at their clinic. Your local dentist can explain programs that can help pay these costs.

Financial Assistance Offered To Seniors In Nevada

Supplemental Security Income is federal aid offered to seniors above 65 determined by assets and income to help them afford their basic needs.

Charity organizations like Nevada Community Associates and Project of Hope Nevada are local organizations that support struggling seniors with monetary support. Over time, numerous charitable organizations have emerged throughout the country. Here’s a glimpse of some of the top 10 well-established charities that provide assistance to seniors.

Living in Nevada can be expensive for retirees without an income. However, life can be better if you use the resources at your disposal. It is your responsibility to benefit from resources that will make you smile confidently.