How To Get Financial Dental Help For Low-Income Texans
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Whether covered by insurance or not, many low-income Texans struggle to afford the dental care they need. With average costs ranging from $100 to $7,000, dental care can become a significant financial setback.
But it doesn’t have to be. Dental help for low-income individuals is always available and there is a laundry list of organizations focused on that mission, as well as grants for those who qualify.
There are even independent resources, such as 211Texas.org to help people find affordable dental services close to where they live. Here are some of the top ways to get dental help for low-income Texans in need.
Dental Financial Help Options
Medicaid And CHIP
Texans who get Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Program benefits can access dental care through managed plans, including MCNA Dental, DentaQuest, and UnitedHealthcare Dental, all of which can be used across the state.
In addition, if you are pregnant, Medicaid for Pregnant Women is one of the most overlooked ways to get dental help for low-income individuals. Such benefits can help cover dental care while you are pregnant and through two months after birth.
If you do not qualify for Medicaid or CHIP, the Title V Maternal and Child Health Fee-For-Service Program may be a good option. It’s available to both children and women who are low-income.
Dental services are offered to those 21 and younger, as well as pregnant women through three months after they give birth.
Dental Schools And Dental Hygiene Clinics
If you live near a dental clinic or a dental school, you’re in luck. It’s one of the most accessible ways to get dental care for low-income Texans. Usually, the public can take advantage of many of the schools and clinics, where usually students offer care while supervised by licensed dental faculty.
Wait times and treatment options vary, but Texas is home to several dental schools, such as the University of Texas School of Dentistry in Houston and the Texas A&M University College of Dentistry in Dallas.
The Texas Dental Association Smiles Foundation
The Smiles Foundation, the Texas Dental Association’s charitable arm, has worked to improve dental care access for underserved Texans since 2001.
It has helped more than 50,000 patients amounting to assistance worth nearly $36 million and works closely with such partner organizations as the Texas Mission of Mercy, Inc.
Federally Qualified Health Centers
Comprehensive dental care is offered to underserved communities at several Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) throughout Texas. Many who are uninsured can get top care at centers, which can also offer substance abuse treatments and mental health services in addition to dental care.
Dental Grants Of Texas
This nonprofit covers everything from the cost of partials, dentures, and veneers to implants and bridges and works with numerous dentists throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area.
You can even use a grant along with various forms of dental insurance, including a PPO. Applications are available on the Dental Grants of Texas website.
Find The Right Dental Office
There are many different dental care providers who set fees on a sliding scale based on your income and several also include services for all income levels. A few make it clear that they will not refuse service just because a patient cannot pay.
If you’re a long-time patient, it may also be an option to work with your dentist on an alternative way to pay, such as a set payment plan. Many even offer certain services at a discount for those who are struggling financially.
Get Help Through A Title Loan In Texas
A title loan in Texas is designed specifically for financial emergencies, such as large medical care bills. If you need cash quickly to get back on your best financial feet, you may qualify in as little as 30 minutes for a title loan in Texas of up to $15,000 through Texas Car Title and Payday Loan Services, Inc.
It’s easy to qualify. All you need is the lien-free title to your vehicle (which is used as collateral in exchange for the loan), your vehicle available for a fast inspection to see how much you qualify for, a driver’s license or another form of identification issued by Texas, and proof of income (such as your most recent paystub).
You can start on our homepage. Fill out the short title loan inquiry form and one of our loan representatives will give you a quick call to walk you through the rest of the process. If you are approved, you get the cash you need the same day or the next business day.
Get Started Today
Now that you know that there are many options to get dental help for low-income Texans, you can get the important dental care you need. A title loan in Texas is an option for assistance. Get started online, give us a call, or visit us today to get the help you need.
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.