Donated Dental Services (DDS) is a program that helps low-income older adults and people with disabilities get free dental care. Volunteer dentists and dental offices provide check-ups, cleanings, fillings, dentures, and other treatments at no cost. This program is for people who can’t afford dental care and don’t have other options.

There is one DDS program in each state. The type of free dental services available may be different depending on where you live.

How does the Donated Dental Services program work?

The Donated Dental Services program helps low-income older adults and people with disabilities get free dental care. Here’s how it works:

• Apply for help: Complete an application to see if you qualify.
• Get matched: If you are approved, DDS will connect you with a dentist who volunteers in the program.
• Get care: The volunteer dentist will provide free treatments, like exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals, and dentures.

There may be a waiting list for DDS programs, and not all types of care are covered. Services generally not covered include cosmetic dentistry, implants, sedation, and other more complex treatments.

Please note: Donated Dental Services are provided by dentists who volunteer their time. Because of this, services may not be offered in all areas of your state. If services are not available in your community, check with your local university or dental school. They may offer free dental care services as well.

Who qualifies for the Donated Dental Services program?

You can get help from this program if you need dental care and you live in an area that offers this program. You must also meet one of the following guidelines:

• You are age 65 or older
• Your dental care is medically necessary
• You have a permanent disability
• You have a chronic or serious medical condition
• You have limited income
• You have no other way to pay for dental care

You can get help from this program once. After you have received dental services from this program, you cannot take part in Donated Dental Services again.

How can I get help from this program?

You can get help from this program by applying online. The online application process is easy and secure, keeping your information safe.

Apply Online

To apply for the DDS program:

• Visit the Dental Lifeline Network (DLN) website and click on "State Programs" in the top menu.
• Click on your state on the map. See if the program is accepting applications in the county where you live.
  • If the county is accepting applications, you can start an online application. Be sure to answer all questions thoroughly, since you cannot save your progress and come back.
  • If your county is not accepting applications, check back in a few months.
• If you prefer to fill out a paper application, click on your state on the map and then "Click Here to Download an Application."

What happens after I apply?

After applying for Donated Dental Services, you will get a postcard in the mail. When you get the postcard, you may need to send proof of eligibility, such as:

• Dental insurance information (if you have it)
• Social Security Disability award (if under 65)
• Copy of your DD214 (if you are a veteran)

DLN will check your completed application to see if you qualify.

• If approved, you will be placed on the waiting list based on when you applied.
• If not approved, you will get a denial letter in the mail.

The waiting time varies and can take several months to over a year depending on where you live. When it’s your turn, a state DLN coordinator will call to review your application. If you still qualify, you will be matched with a dentist.

If the dentist agrees to treat you, you will schedule an appointment. The dentist will decide if they can accept you into the program after this first visit.

How can I get help with my application?

When a state DLN coordinator calls after receiving your application, they will review it with you to make sure it is complete. You can also:

• Ask a trusted family member or friend for help.
• Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near you. See if there’s one in your area.
• Call the NCOA HelpLine at 1-800-794-6559.