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How to Get a Dental Implant Grant [2024 Guide]

If some of your teeth have fallen out or you want to improve your smile without breaking the bank, consider applying for a dental implant grant.

Last updated on

October 30, 2024

Katharine Hall

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How to Get a Dental Implant Grant [2024 Guide]

A smile is one of the first things people notice about each other, so why shouldn’t it be the best? 

Procedures like teeth whitening, dental bridges, dental implants, and other cosmetic and prosthetic dental treatments can help improve your smile. One of the most popular prosthetic dental treatments that improve patients’ smiles is dental implants. 

The cost of this procedure can get expensive, which is why so many people consider dental grants as an option to make this treatment more affordable. Keep reading to learn more about dental implant grants and how to apply. 

What is a Dental Implant Grant?

Dental implant grants offer people from low-income groups, seniors, veterans, and various other needs or qualifications help with this popular dental procedure. Some grants are available to large groups, such as veterans, while others are for a more specific kind of person. You should be able to apply for dental grants online or through your organization’s page if you fall into one of these categories. 

Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss, which affects 1 in 8 adults 65 years or older. 

Because dental implants are a prosthetic treatment, similar to dental crowns and bridges. But this procedure can also improve a person’s speech, and chewing ability, as well as prevent bone laws in the jaw. 

Dental implants are extremely common and sought-after, considering how many people suffer from tooth loss. Unfortunately, the typical cost of dental implants ranges from $3,000 to $6,000.

Who Qualifies for Dental Implant Grants?

Due to the popularity and need for dental implants, several programs offer grants for this procedure. Although some of the qualifications might vary, here are a few factors that the majority of grant programs consider before they allocate a grant:

  • Location: Some grants are only available to people in certain areas of the country. 
  • Healthy Teeth: Although dental implants are not as invasive as other treatments, your teeth must be able to withstand the treatment. 
  • Income: Many programs offer partial or full grants, based on an individual’s income.
  • Age: Various grants are created for people of a certain age, as tooth loss affects older people more often.
  • Disability: The ADA Foundation has created several organizations that provide grants for disabled people. 

Types of Dental Implant Grants 

There are several organizations that offer dental implant grants to provide people with accessible dental procedures. Here are some of the different types of grants one could qualify for. 

Dental Grants for Veterans 

Several participating dentists offer free dental care and services to veterans. Veterans can turn to services like the VA or the ADA Foundation to see if they qualify. 

Dental Grants for Low-Income Adults 

Many programs offer grants to low-income adults for common procedures like dental implants. You can apply for several of these grants online or check if you qualify for them in one of their FAQ sections. These grants don’t just cover the cost of dental implants either. Some aid low-income adults in other aspects, including bills and other dental costs.

Dental Grants for Seniors 

Many senior citizens also qualify for dental implant grants, as long as their remaining teeth are still healthy. Some senior patients choose to explore the options available to them through their local community health centers and clinics. The American Dental Foundation offers several senior care grants for prosthetic and emergency dental procedures. To qualify as a senior, most grant programs require participants to be at least 62 years old. While some grants might have more specific qualifications, this is the baseline age for senior dental grants.

Best Dental Implant Grants

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There are several dental implant grants available for low-income families, seniors, veterans, and more. Even if you don’t fall into one of the categories listed above, you might still qualify for one of these grant programs and be able to save some money during your treatment. Here are some of the best programs available.

1. Medicaid

Medicaid is a mutually federally and state-funded insurance plan that offers its users dental coverage. Depending on where you live, your coverage might cover your dental implants. Unfortunately, because this treatment is primarily prosthetic, Medicaid might not cover all the costs. Individuals who require implants for health issues can receive some coverage for this procedure.

2. Dental Grants Program

The Dental Grants Program covers most types of general and cosmetic dental procedures, including basic dentistry, cleaning, extractions, root canals, and fillings. This program offers a maximum of 30% off for qualifying dental procedures. It’s free to enroll, you simply have to fill out an Enrollment Form on their website and attend a free consultation with a dentist.  

3. ADA Foundation

The ADA Foundation provides dental grants for dentists and families going through difficult times. The grants are meant to help families pay for dental care for their dependents and dentists who cannot work due to injuries, age, or medical conditions. Spouses of deceased dentists are also encouraged to apply for this grant. 

The grant’s funds are meant to help with daily living expenses, emergency dental needs, and dependents 18 years old or younger. The grants are usually made on a one-time basis and vary in amount.

4. Samuel Harris Fund

The Samuel Harris Fund, in partnership with the American Dental Association, awards grants to children whose socioeconomic status prevents them from accessing dental care. The program also offers and serves single mothers and caregivers. Members of the Samuel Harris Fund also have full access to GrantStation, a database of over 5,000 grant opportunities and other resources for families and individuals looking for dental assistance.

5. California Dental Grants

Residents in California are encouraged to apply for free to see if they qualify for a California Dental Grant. This grant is available to anyone who wants to improve their smile and explore cosmetic dental procedures The eligible procedures include but are not limited to:

6. Cosmetic Dentistry Grant (CDG)

Another grant that is free to apply for is the Cosmetic Dentistry Grant. To qualify for this grant, the applicants’ mouths and teeth must be healthy enough to support the cosmetic procedure. Part of the application process is a free oral health assessment by a Certified Dental Practitioner in the applicant’s area. 

How to Get a Dental Implant Grant

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Now that you’re familiar with some of the grants available, it’s time to figure out what it takes to apply and possibly receive a grant. While some grants might require specific qualifications or additional steps, here is a general guide to getting a dental implant grant.

Step 1: Research Your Options 

There are so many dental grants available. If you’re curious whether or not you qualify for one, do a bit of research! In all likelihood, there’s a perfect grant that will fit your needs and help you save some money. Make sure that the dental grant you apply for fits your needs and specific situation. You also might qualify for more than one. In that case, compare the benefits and the money you might save and choose the best option!

Step 2: Check the Eligibility Criteria 

Once you’ve found a grant that works for you, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and have all the documentation you need on hand. Go through the list, check the frequently asked questions, and complete any steps necessary to apply for the grant. 

Step 3: Submit Your Application 

Your grant should have an application available online or through the mail. Make sure to fill that out and send it in. You might have to wait a bit for your application to get approved, but once it’s set, you can book your appointment. 

Step 4: Book Your Free Consultation 

Many grants offer a free consultation with participating dentists to ensure that your mouth and remaining teeth are healthy enough to receive dental implants. While dental implants are a prosthetic procedure, it’s important to know if your mouth, gums, and other teeth can handle the implants before you get them. 

Step 5: Start Your Dental Implant Treatment 

Once you have been approved for a grant, given the green light by a dental expert, and found the perfect dentist, it’s time to start your dental implant treatment. Depending on how many teeth are missing and how healthy your mouth is, this treatment can last a while. Thankfully, your grant should cover a good deal of the costs and make the process manageable. 

Alternatives to Dental Implant Grants

If you’re not certain that a dental implant grant is right for you, or if you’d rather explore other options, here are some alternatives that can still save you some money for this procedure. 

Dental Insurance 

many insurance plans offer coverage for dental implant procedures. The coverage varies, depending on your plan or location. Some plans consider implants an elective procedure and offer limited to no coverage. 


Review your insurance policy to determine how much of your dental implant procedure is covered by your insurance company. 

Dental Loans 

If the procedure is too costly, consider a dental loan. Dental loans cover various services ranging from $1k to $10,000. These loans are unsecured personal loans, which can help fund dental emergencies, tooth repairs, and planned cosmetic work. 

Credit Cards 

Another payment option is credit cards. You can create a payment plan for your credit card without getting into debt or taking out too much cash at one time. While your credit card will need to be paid off promptly and your credit score might take a significant hit if not, many people choose to open a credit card for procedures such as this. 

In-House Payment Plans 

Many dentist offices offer in-house payment plans that make procedures like dental implants affordable and manageable. Talk to your dentist to see if there are any available options for a payment plan or an in-house credit program. 

More About Dental Implant Grants

If you still have some questions about dental implant grants, if you could qualify, and what to expect when you’re applying, Flossy has the answers! Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about these grants. 

Are there income requirements for dental implant grants? 

Every dental implant grant is unique and serves a specific people group. Some dental implant grants are created for low-income individuals, while others do not have any income requirements. If you are applying for a low-income dental grant, make sure your income meets the requirements. 

What credit score do I need to get dental implants?

If you are paying for dental implants with your credit card, you will likely need a credit score of 640 or above. While every grant has different requirements, people with a credit score of 580 or higher will likely have an easier time applying for a dental financing loan or grant. 

That said, many people who have a lower score can still receive financing and help, but it might be through a private lender. If you’re applying for a loan, your minimum credit score will vary, but 600 is the average minimum, with several prices going even lower than that.

What information do I need when applying for a dental implant grant?

Because every dental implant grant program is different, they have different requirements. But generally, you’ll be expected to provide your location, age, healthcare history, and other areas of information. 

Make Dental Implants Affordable 

Depending on how much tooth loss you experience, the process of getting dental implants can be expensive. Although there are many grants available for many people groups, these grants might not cover all of the expenses necessary for your dental implant procedure. 

External Sources:

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/first-impressions-are-everything-new-study-confirms-people-with-straight-teeth-are-perceived-as-more-trustworthy-confident-and-approachable-301509477.html

https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/about/about-tooth-loss.html#:~:text=Overview&text=About%201%20in%208%20(13,tooth%20loss%20in%202015%E2%80%932018.

https://www.adafoundation.org/

https://www.denefits.com/do-dental-grants-make-implants-and-cosmetic-dentistry-affordable-for-low-income-groups/

https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/

https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/dental-care/index.html

https://smileschangelives.org/

https://gohfd.com/dental-implant-financing-bad-credit-here-are-your-options/#:~:text=Typically%2C%20standard%20lenders%20require%20a,history%20beyond%20their%20credit%20score

https://wallethub.com/answers/pl/what-credit-score-is-needed-for-dental-financing-2140693900/

https://www.americanortho.com/

https://www.snpo.org/publications/fundingalert_details.php?id=102

https://www.californiadentalgrant.org/

https://www.nerdwallet.com/personal-loans 

https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/loans/personal-loans/dental-loans

https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/credit-cards/credit-intel/pay-for-dental-care-with-a-credit-card/ 

https://www.lendingtree.com/personal/medical/dental-loans/

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