Dental Grants in Rhode Island

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

Last updated: August 19, 2025

Key Takeaways

Bottom Line: Rhode Island provides comprehensive Medicaid dental coverage for adults and offers multiple verified options for seniors needing affordable care. Unlike many states, Rhode Island has extensive dental benefits and community resources.

What You Need Right Now:

• The Reality: Rhode Island Medicaid provides dental services for adults over age 21, including comprehensive coverage, making it one of the most generous states for adult dental coverage
• Income Requirements: 2025 Federal Poverty Level is $15,650 for individuals ($1,304 monthly); Rhode Island Medicaid income limits vary by program
• Free Care Available: Confirmed operating clinics and programs serve seniors, including annual Mission of Mercy events
• Documentation Required: Photo ID, income verification, and Medicaid enrollment for most programs

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DENTAL EMERGENCY HELP – GET CARE TODAY

If you’re having a dental emergency right now:

Immediate Emergency Resources

1. Samuels Sinclair Dental Center (Adults with Special Needs)

• Phone: (401) 444-5284
• Address: 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903
• Services: Rhode Island’s largest dental care practice for children and adults with special needs
• Status: Accredited by The Joint Commission as part of Rhode Island Hospital

2. Providence Community Health Centers – Adult Dental Clinic

• Phone: (401) 861-2403
• Address: 160 Broad Street, Providence, RI 02903
• Services: New $2.5 million adult dental clinic with 9 operatories
• Emergency Care: Available for examinations, X-rays, and emergency extractions

3. Thundermist Health Centers

• Woonsocket: (401) 767-4161 – 25 John A. Cummins Way, Woonsocket RI 02895
• West Warwick: (401) 615-2804 – 5 Washington Street, West Warwick, RI 02893
• Services: Community health centers providing emergency dental care

4. Hospital Emergency Rooms

• When to Go: Severe facial swelling, difficulty swallowing, fever with tooth pain
• What They Do: Emergency stabilization and pain management – they cannot perform dental procedures
• Cost: Expensive, but required to provide emergency assessment

Emergency Documentation Checklist

• Required ID: Photo identification (driver’s license or state ID)
• Insurance: Medicaid cards, Medicare cards if available
• Medical Info: Current medications list, medical conditions
• Contact Info: Phone number and emergency contact

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Understanding Rhode Island’s Dental Care Advantage for Seniors

Comprehensive Medicaid Coverage

Rhode Island is unique among states in providing extensive Medicaid dental coverage for adults. The Rhode Island Medicaid Program provides dental services for adults over age 21 who have Medicaid coverage. Rhode Island offers comprehensive dental coverage without the severe limitations found in many other states.

What’s Covered by Rhode Island Medicaid:

• Comprehensive oral examinations and assessments
• X-rays and diagnostic services
• Cleanings and preventive care
• Fillings and restorative care
• Extractions and oral surgery
• Root canals (anterior teeth)
• Crowns and bridges
• Full and partial dentures (limited numbers)
• Emergency dental services

Two Medicaid Dental Programs

1. Standard Medicaid Dental Services:

• Available to all eligible Medicaid recipients over 21
• Comprehensive range of services
• No waiting periods or lifetime limits on most services

2. Nursing Home Mobile Dental Program:

• CareLink Mobile Dentistry Program provides mobile dental services to nursing home residents
• Must have been in nursing home for 45 days to qualify
• Services brought directly to facility

Health Connections: Why Dental Care Matters for Seniors

Poor oral health significantly impacts overall health for seniors:

• Heart Disease: Gum disease bacteria can enter bloodstream, contributing to cardiovascular problems
• Diabetes Complications: Gum disease makes blood sugar control more difficult
• Pneumonia: Bacteria from infected teeth and gums can be aspirated into lungs
• Malnutrition: Tooth loss leads to difficulty eating nutritious foods
• Social Isolation: Dental problems can cause embarrassment and reduced social interaction

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Verified Free and Low-Cost Programs for Rhode Island Seniors

1. Providence Community Health Centers – Adult Dental Clinic

New Expansion (2024): Providence Community Health Centers opened a new $2.5 million adult dental clinic to address the critical shortage of dental care for underserved adults. In Providence, there is only one dentist for every 12,822 residents classified as low-income or covered by Medicaid.

Services Available:

• Examinations, fillings, crowns, x-rays, cleanings
• Anterior root canals, routine extractions
• Limited number of full and partial dentures
• Nine operatories with on-site laboratory and x-ray capabilities

Eligibility and Payment:

• Accepts Medicaid patients
• Sliding scale fees based on income for uninsured patients
• No patient turned away due to inability to pay
• Significant increase in capacity – able to see 60% more patients

Contact Information:

• Phone: (401) 861-2403
• Address: 160 Broad Street, Providence, RI 02903
• Website: providencechc.org

2. Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Dental Hygiene Clinic

Free Services Available: CCRI’s dental hygiene clinic provides free dental cleanings to the public. Everyone is eligible to receive services.

How It Works:

• Services performed by dental hygiene students under supervision of licensed dentist and dental hygienist
• Appointments last 2 hours and may require multiple visits
• Available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM during academic year
• Patients welcome for treatment every 12 months after initial completion

Additional Services:

• Sealants and x-rays available for small fee
• Baseline cleaning and exam services
• Oral health education

Contact Information:

• Phone: (401) 333-7250
• Location: Lincoln campus
• Season: Academic year (September to May)

3. Donated Dental Services (DDS) Program

Comprehensive Care for Seniors: Rhode Island Donated Dental Services provides comprehensive dental care to eligible patients. Application required for services.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age 65 or older, OR permanently disabled, OR medically fragile
• Cannot afford dental treatment
• Must qualify as having medical need for dental care

Application Process:

• Contact: Dental Lifeline, 10 Orms Street Suite 350, Providence RI 02904
• Phone: (401) 821-8656
• Important: All applications must be submitted through the DDS Coordinator
• Veterans: Different application than civilians to complete
• Note: They do NOT provide emergency services

4. Rhode Island Mission of Mercy (RIMOM)

Annual Free Dental Event: The Rhode Island Mission of Mercy is a signature annual event providing free dental care to the uninsured, underinsured, or anyone who cannot access dental care.

2024 Event Details:

• Dates: October 5 & 6, 2024 (10th annual event)
• Location: Providence Community Health Centers (PCHC), Providence RI
• Services: Over 1,920 procedures performed with $273,000 value of free services
• Patients Served: Over 455 patients in weekend event

Services Provided:

• Fillings, x-rays, tooth extractions
• Root canal treatment on front teeth only
• Oral health instructions, small denture repairs
• Limited number of partial dentures to replace missing front teeth
• Health and dental evaluations

How It Works:

• First-come, first-served basis based on oral health needs
• Staffed with over 250 dental & medical volunteers
• Over 200 community volunteers
• No eligibility requirements or income restrictions

2025 Information:

• Contact Rhode Island Oral Health Foundation for 2025 dates
• Plan to arrive very early – patients have waited since midnight in previous years

5. Thundermist Health Centers

Multiple Locations: Thundermist Health Centers provide comprehensive dental services at community health center rates.

Locations and Contact:

Services:

• Comprehensive dental care for adults and children
• Accepts Medicaid and offers sliding scale fees
• Emergency dental services available

6. Comprehensive Community Action Program (CCAP)

Three Dental Locations: CCAP provides Rhode Island communities with quality dental services they can afford.

Services and Payment:

• Full range of comprehensive dental services to adults and children
• Accept all third party insurances including Medicaid, Medicare and RIte Care
• Self-pay and sliding scale fees available based on family size and income
• Does not limit access to service due to inability to pay

Locations:

Contact: (401) 427-4080 for appointments and program information

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Medicare and Insurance Options for Rhode Island Seniors

Traditional Medicare (Parts A & B)

Reality Check: Medicare does not cover routine dental care for adults. Limited exceptions include:

• Hospital-based procedures requiring medical admission
• Medicare Part A may cover facility costs for certain oral surgeries
• Medicare Part B may cover separately purchased medications

Medicare Advantage Plans with Dental

2025 Rhode Island Options: Stand-alone dental coverage premiums in Rhode Island range from about $15 to $63 per month for adults purchasing through the exchange.

Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs): The following D-SNPs offer dental benefits for Rhode Island seniors eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid:

• Neighborhood Integrity Medicare-Medicaid Plan (MMP) offers dental benefits for dual eligible members

HealthSource RI Dental Coverage

Rhode Island uses a state-run health insurance Marketplace named HealthSourceRI for certified individual/family dental plans.

Pediatric Coverage:

• Stand-alone pediatric dental plans comply with ACA’s pediatric dental coverage rules
• Out-of-pocket costs will not exceed $375 per child (or $750 for all children on family plan)
• No cap on medically-necessary pediatric dental benefits

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Income Eligibility and Medicaid Enrollment

Rhode Island Medicaid Eligibility (2025)

Income Limits for Different Programs:

Spend-Down Program

Rhode Island has a Spend-Down Program that allows seniors over Medicaid’s income limit to become eligible if they have high medical expenses.

How It Works:

• “Spend down” income on private health insurance, unpaid medical bills, care assistance, and medical expenses Medicaid doesn’t cover
• Effective 1/1/25, medically needy income limits are $1,167/month for individual and $1,208/month for couple
• “Spend down” amount is difference between monthly income and the limit
• Calculated for 6-month periods

How to Apply for Medicaid

Application Options:

1. Online: HealthyRhode RI website
2. Phone: Department of Human Services at (855) 697-4347 (855-MY-RIDHS)
3. Mail: Complete paper application and mail to local DHS office
4. In Person: Visit local DHS office

Application Assistance:

• Call the POINT at (401) 462-4444 for help with applications
• Free certified enrollers available through HealthSource RI
• Hours: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM, Monday – Friday (wait times may be longer during Medicaid renewals)

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Understanding Dental Costs in Rhode Island (2025)

Community Health Center Savings

Community health centers like Providence Community Health Centers and Thundermist offer significant savings compared to private practice:

Payment Options Available

• Medicaid: Accepted at all community health centers
• Medicare Advantage: Some plans accepted
• Sliding Scale Fees: Based on income for uninsured patients
• Self-Pay Discounts: Available at most community health centers
• Payment Plans: Many providers offer extended payment options

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Special Populations and Inclusive Care

LGBTQ+ Seniors

Rhode Island’s community health centers provide inclusive care for LGBTQ+ seniors:

• Providence Community Health Centers have nondiscrimination policies
• Staff trained in LGBTQ+ cultural competency
• Safe, welcoming environments for all patients
• Thundermist Health Centers also provide inclusive care

Veteran Seniors

VA Dental Benefits: While Rhode Island doesn’t have extensive VA dental facilities, veterans may be eligible for:

• Service-connected dental conditions
• Dental care during VA medical treatment
• VA dental insurance programs (VADIP)

Local VA Resources:

• Providence VA Medical Center: Contact for dental eligibility
• VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
• Many community health centers have experience serving veterans

Disabled Seniors

Specialized Services:

• Samuels Sinclair Dental Center: Rhode Island’s largest dental care practice for adults with special needs
• Providence Community Health Centers: Experienced in serving patients with disabilities
• Donated Dental Services: Specifically serves permanently disabled individuals

Accessibility Features:

• Most community health centers comply with ADA requirements
• Transportation assistance may be available through local agencies
• Specialized equipment and trained staff at Samuels Sinclair

Rural Seniors with Limited Access

Transportation Solutions:

• Contact local Area Agencies on Aging for transportation assistance
• Some community health centers coordinate transportation
• Medical transportation may be covered by Medicaid for dental appointments

Mobile Services:

• CareLink Mobile Dentistry: Serves nursing home residents
• Some community outreach programs bring services to underserved areas

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Application Process and Success Strategies

Documentation Checklist

Required for Most Programs:

Application Timeline Expectations

Medicaid Enrollment:

• Online/Phone: 30-45 days for processing
• Emergency Medicaid: Faster processing for urgent medical needs
• Verification: May require additional documentation

Community Health Centers:

• Initial appointment: 1-3 weeks for routine care
• Emergency care: Same day or next day
• Sliding scale determination: Usually completed at first visit

CCRI Dental Hygiene Clinic:

• Appointment scheduling: Call during academic year
• Wait time: Varies by semester, typically 2-4 weeks
• Treatment: Can schedule follow-up every 12 months

Donated Dental Services:

• Application processing: 4-8 weeks
• Dentist matching: Variable, depends on volunteer availability
• Treatment start: Once matched with volunteer dentist

Success Tips for Rhode Island Seniors

1. Start with Medicaid: If eligible, this provides the most comprehensive coverage
2. Apply to Multiple Programs: Don’t rely on just one option
3. Keep Documentation Current: Income verification expires after 3-6 months
4. Plan Transportation: Most services concentrated in Providence area
5. Bring Caregiver Support: Many seniors benefit from having someone accompany them
6. Ask About Senior Discounts: Some programs offer additional discounts for seniors
7. Maintain Regular Contact: Follow up on applications but be patient

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Managing Dental Health While Waiting for Care

Daily Oral Care for Seniors

Essential Daily Routine:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Use soft-bristled toothbrush to protect sensitive gums
• Clean dentures daily if applicable
• Rinse with water after meals
• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol

Managing Dental Pain Safely

Over-the-Counter Options:

• Ibuprofen: Reduces inflammation and pain (check with doctor about interactions)
• Acetaminophen: Safe for most seniors, good for pain relief
• Saltwater rinse: 1 teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water
• Cold compress: 15-20 minutes on outside of cheek

Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Care:

• Facial swelling affecting breathing or swallowing
• Fever with dental pain (sign of serious infection)
• Severe bleeding that won’t stop
• Severe, constant pain not relieved by medication

Medication Considerations for Seniors

Critical Drug Interactions: Always inform dental providers about:

• Blood thinners (Warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto) – may require procedure modifications
• Bisphosphonates (Fosamax, Boniva) – can affect jaw bone healing
• Diabetes medications – can affect infection fighting ability
• Heart medications – may interact with dental anesthetics

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Decision Tree: Choosing the Right Program

Start Here: Do you have Medicaid?

YES – You have Medicaid:

1. First Choice: Any community health center accepting Medicaid
2. Closest Options: Providence Community Health Centers, Thundermist Health Centers, CCAP
3. Special Needs: Samuels Sinclair Dental Center

NO – You don’t have Medicaid:

1. Check Eligibility: Apply through HealthSource RI or DHS
2. While Waiting: CCRI free cleanings, sliding scale at community health centers
3. If Over Income Limits: Donated Dental Services, Mission of Mercy

Geographic Considerations

Providence Area:

1. First Choice: Providence Community Health Centers (new adult clinic)
2. Alternative: Samuels Sinclair Dental Center (special needs)
3. Free Cleanings: CCRI Dental Hygiene Clinic (Lincoln campus)

Northern Rhode Island (Woonsocket area):

1. Primary: Thundermist Health Center Woonsocket
2. Backup: CCAP locations
3. Transportation: May need to travel to Providence for specialized care

Southern Rhode Island:

1. Primary: Thundermist Health Center West Warwick
2. Alternative: CCAP Warwick or Coventry locations
3. Transportation: Consider Providence options for complex care

Age and Health Considerations

Over 65 with Limited Income:

• Apply for Medicaid if not enrolled
• Donated Dental Services application
• Medicare Advantage plans with dental
• Annual Mission of Mercy event

Seniors with Disabilities:

• Samuels Sinclair Dental Center for specialized care
• Donated Dental Services (priority for disabled individuals)
• Community health centers with ADA compliance

Emergency Situations:

• Samuels Sinclair for special needs emergencies
• Community health center emergency services
• Hospital ER only for severe, life-threatening symptoms

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Patient Success Stories

“I’m 78 and had been putting off dental work for years because I thought I couldn’t afford it. When I learned about the new Providence Community Health Centers dental clinic, I called right away. They got me in within two weeks, and I found out my Medicaid covered everything. I got three fillings and a cleaning – all at no cost to me. The staff was wonderful and patient with all my questions.” – Eleanor S., Providence

“As a veteran with limited income, I wasn’t sure where to turn for dental care. The folks at Thundermist Health Center in Woonsocket helped me understand my options and get the care I needed on a sliding scale. I’ve been going there for two years now, and they’ve become like family.” – Robert M., Woonsocket

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Rhode Island Medicaid cover dental care for seniors? A: Yes! Rhode Island provides comprehensive dental services for adults over age 21 who have Medicaid coverage, including cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns, and dentures.

Q: How much do dental services cost at community health centers? A: Community health centers typically cost 50-70% less than private practice. Many accept Medicaid and offer sliding scale fees for uninsured patients.

Q: What is the income limit for Medicaid in Rhode Island? A: Income limits vary by program. Regular Medicaid for aged/blind/disabled allows up to $2,901/month for individuals. The medically needy program allows $1,167/month for individuals with a spend-down option.

Q: When is the next Rhode Island Mission of Mercy event? A: The annual event typically occurs in October. The 2024 event was October 5-6. Contact the Rhode Island Oral Health Foundation for 2025 dates.

Q: Can I get free dental cleanings in Rhode Island? A: Yes! CCRI Dental Hygiene Clinic provides free cleanings to the public during the academic year. Call (401) 333-7250 for appointments.

Q: What should I do for a dental emergency? A: Call Samuels Sinclair Dental Center at (401) 444-5284 or Providence Community Health Centers at (401) 861-2403. For severe symptoms, go to nearest hospital emergency room.

Q: Do I need to be a Rhode Island resident to get care? A: Most programs require Rhode Island residency. Medicaid requires state residency, and community health centers typically serve local communities.

Q: How long are waiting lists for dental care? A: Wait times vary: Community health centers (1-3 weeks), CCRI free cleanings (2-4 weeks during academic year), Donated Dental Services (varies by volunteer availability).

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Resources by Region

Providence Area

Providence Community Health Centers – Adult Dental Clinic

• Address: 160 Broad Street, Providence, RI 02903
• Phone: (401) 861-2403
• Services: New $2.5 million facility with comprehensive adult dental care
• Specialties: Accepts Medicaid, sliding scale fees

Samuels Sinclair Dental Center

• Address: 593 Eddy Street, Providence, RI 02903
• Phone: (401) 444-5284
• Services: Largest dental care practice for adults with special needs and all children
• Accreditation: Joint Commission accredited

CCRI Dental Hygiene Clinic

• Location: Lincoln campus
• Phone: (401) 333-7250
• Services: Free dental cleanings during academic year
• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Northern Rhode Island

Thundermist Health Center – Woonsocket

• Address: 25 John A. Cummins Way, Woonsocket RI 02895
• Phone: (401) 767-4161
• Services: Comprehensive dental care, accepts Medicaid

Southern Rhode Island

Thundermist Health Center – West Warwick

• Address: 5 Washington Street, West Warwick, RI 02893
• Phone: (401) 615-2804
• Services: Community health center dental services

CCAP Dental Locations:

• Cranston, Warwick, Coventry
• Main Phone: (401) 427-4080
• Services: Sliding scale fees, comprehensive care

Statewide Resources

Rhode Island Department of Health

• Website: health.ri.gov/oral-health/find-dental-care
• Services: Licensed dentist directory, free clinic information

HealthSource RI

• Phone: 1-855-840-4774
• Website: healthsourceri.com
• Services: Medicaid applications, dental insurance marketplace

Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services)

• Address: 10 Orms Street Suite 350, Providence RI 02904
• Phone: (401) 821-8656
• Services: Comprehensive donated dental care for eligible seniors

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Transportation and Access Solutions

Medical Transportation

Medicaid Transportation:

• Contact your Medicaid managed care organization for transportation assistance
• Medical transportation may be covered for dental appointments
• Advance notice typically required (24-48 hours)

Public Transportation

Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA):

• Phone: (401) 781-9400
• Services: Reduced fares for seniors and disabled individuals
• Routes: Connect major cities and towns throughout Rhode Island

Senior Transportation Services

Local Area Agencies on Aging:

• Often provide transportation for medical appointments
• Contact Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging for local resources
• Some services may be income-based

Family and Caregiver Support

• Many seniors benefit from having someone accompany them to appointments
• Community health centers welcome caregivers to assist with communication
• Family members can help with scheduling and follow-up care

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Looking Ahead: Future Improvements

Healthcare System Developments

Providence Community Health Centers Expansion:

• New adult dental clinic represents significant investment in community oral health
• Plans for continued expansion of services
• Focus on serving underserved populations

Rhode Island Mission of Mercy Growth:

• Annual event continues to grow in size and scope
• More volunteers and services each year
• Potential for additional events or expanded services

Policy and Funding Changes

Medicaid Program Stability:

• Rhode Island maintains strong commitment to adult dental coverage
• Continued federal and state funding support
• Focus on preventive care to reduce long-term costs

Community Health Center Funding:

• Federal support through HRSA continues
• State and local partnerships expanding
• Private foundation support growing

Technology and Access Improvements

Teledentistry:

• Some community health centers exploring remote consultations
• Potential for rural access improvements
• Pre-screening for urgent cases

Mobile Services:

• Expansion of CareLink Mobile Dentistry
• Potential new mobile programs for underserved areas
• School-based and community-based mobile clinics

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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 opportunities.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, CMS), Rhode Island state government departments, community health center websites, official program documentation, and verified nonprofit organization resources.

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 wait times.

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 dental advice. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying. 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. This guide is not a substitute for professional medical advice. 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. The patient stories included have been anonymized with permission. Dental advice should always be sought from qualified dental professionals.

This resource is independently researched to help seniors access available dental care programs.