Updated on

Top Dental Schools in US: Low-Cost or Free Services to Patients in Need

Disclosure: Links on this site may receive a commission, this does not affect the price you pay and help us cover the costs of running this website.

Dental schools are an often overlooked resource for individuals seeking affordable dental care. These schools provide low-cost or free services to patients in need, while also offering training and hands-on experience to dental students. If you’re struggling to afford dental care, it may be worth considering getting treatment at a dental school.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about accessing affordable dental services at dental schools, including:

  • How to get treatment
  • The pros and cons of dental schools
  • The requirements for affordable dental services
  • A list of the top dental schools in each state of the US

What Is the Process of Receiving Low-Cost Dental Care at Dental Schools?

Receiving low-cost dental care at dental schools involves a specific process. Here is an overview of the steps involved:

1- Initial screening:

  • Dental student evaluates oral health
  • Determines eligibility for treatment at the school

2- Assignment to a student dentist:

  • Eligible individuals are assigned to a student dentist
  • Care is provided under the supervision of a licensed dentist

3- Treatment process:

  • Multiple appointments may be required based on dental needs
  • Treatment may be spread out over several visits
  • Duration may be longer compared to a traditional dental office

4- Dental student involvement:

  • Dental students may take more time to perform procedures
  • Students are still learning and practicing their skills

Despite the potential for longer treatment times, receiving low-cost dental care at dental schools can be a cost-effective and valuable option for individuals in need of dental care.

Pros and Cons of Dental Schools

Like any healthcare option, there are both pros and cons to receiving treatment at a dental school. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of dental schools, so you can make an informed decision about whether this option is right for you.

Pros
  • Lower cost of dental services
  • Access to a range of dental procedures
  • Supervision by licensed dentists ensures quality care
  • Dental students are often enthusiastic and highly motivated to provide good care
  • Opportunities for dental research may result in innovative and improved treatment options
Cons
  • Longer treatment times due to the learning process of the dental students
  • Availability of appointments may be limited due to high demand
  • May not offer emergency dental services outside of regular clinic hours
  • Dental students may lack experience and proficiency compared to licensed dentists
  • The learning environment may not be ideal for individuals with dental anxiety or phobia.

What Are the Steps to Become a Patient at a Dental School?

Becoming a patient at a dental school is a relatively simple process. Here are the general steps to follow:

  • Research dental schools in your area and check their websites for patient information.
  • Contact the dental school to schedule an initial screening appointment.
  • Attend the screening appointment, during which a dental student will evaluate your oral health and determine whether you are eligible for treatment at the school.
  • If you are eligible, you will be assigned to a student dentist who will provide treatment under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
  • Attend your scheduled appointments and follow the treatment plan recommended by your student dentist.

It’s important to note that each dental school may have specific requirements and procedures, so it’s important to check with the school you’re interested in for their specific process. Additionally, be prepared for longer appointment times and potentially longer overall treatment times, as the student dentists are still learning and may take more time to complete procedures than a licensed dentist would.

Requirements for Affordable Dental Services at Dental Schools

Requirements For Affordable Dental Services At Dental Schools
Overall, to receive affordable dental services at a dental school, individuals must be willing to:

  • Have treatment provided by dental students
  • Meet the eligibility criteria
  • Commit to attending appointments
  • Have insurance coverage or be able to pay for services out of pocket.

Top Dental Schools That Provide Cheap or Free Dental Work by State

To help you find the best dental schools in your state that provide cheap or free dental work, we’ve compiled a list of top dental schools by state. Each state has at least one dental school that offers low-cost or free dental services, making it easier for those in need to access quality dental care.

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Alabama School of DentistryPreventive, Restorative, Endodontics, ProsthodonticsPatients of all agesFees are approximately 50% lower fees than private practice
Faulkner University College of Health SciencePreventive, Restorative, Oral Surgery, Prosthodontics, OrthodonticsPatients of all ages, except children under 5Low-cost

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral HealthGeneral Care Dentistry, Orthodontics and Advanced Care DentistryIt’s public and open to everyone and anyone who wishes to be a patient.Low-cost
Pima Community CollegeLimited preventative oral health servicesPatients of all agesRoutine Cleaning: $45.00
Teeth Whitening*: $55.00
Screening X-rays: $15.00-25.00
Sealants*: $15.00
Periodontal Cleaning: $65.00
Perio-therapies*: $20.00

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
UCLA School of DentistryPreventive, Restorative, Oral Surgery, Orthodontics, Prosthodontics, PeriodonticsPatients of all ages, except children under 5 and those with certain medical conditionsVaries depending on treatment needed, but typically less expensive than private practice fees.
UCSF School of DentistryGeneral Dental CarePatients of all ages, except children under 5 and those with certain medical conditionsVaries depending on treatment needed, but typically less expensive than private practice fees.

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Colorado School of Dental MedicinePreventive care, restorative care, oral surgery, endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, and pediatric dentistry.Dentures $500-700
Root Canals $300-500
Crown $500-700
Free dental screening exams and x-rays (for new patients).
Dentures $500-700
Root Canals $300-500
Crown $500-700
Free dental screening exams and x-rays (for new patients)
Community College of Denver Dental Hygiene ProgramPreventive and therapeutic dental services.Adults and children (ages four and older).Free for eligible patients.

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Connecticut School of Dental MedicinePreventive care, restorative care, oral surgery, endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, pediatric dentistry and emergency dental care.Patients of all ages and backgrounds.Varies depending on the treatment needed, but typically less expensive than private practice fees.
Tunxis Community College Dental Hygiene ProgramPreventive care, such as cleanings, fluoride treatments, and x-rays.All patient/clients who meet the educational needs of the program.Free for eligible patients.

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Florida College of Dentistry Gainesville, FLPreventive and Restorative Care, Endodontics, Periodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, and more.Patients of all ages with varying dental needs, including low-income, uninsured, and underinsured individuals.Varies based on treatment.
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Fort Lauderdale, FLPreventive Care, Restorative Care, Periodontics, Oral Surgery, Orthodontics, and more.Services are available to adults, children, adolescents, and elderly clients.Varies based on treatment.

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
Dental College of Georgia at Augusta UniversityGeneral dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, and prosthodontics.Patients with dental problems that fit their teaching programs and student needs.Varies based on treatment.
Georgia School of OrthodonticsOrthodontic treatment, including traditional braces and clear aligners.Patients of all ages with moderate to severe malocclusion.BRACES OR INVISALIGN®
TOTAL PAYMENT

$2,698*

BRACES OR INVISALIGN®
26 MONTHLY PAYMENTS

$89
TOTAL PAYMENT

$2,998*

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Illinois at Chicago College of DentistryPreventive care, Restorative care, Prosthodontics, Endodontics, Oral and maxillofacial surgery, Orthodontics, Pediatric dentistry.Patients with dental problems that fit their teaching programs and student needs.Varies based on treatment.
Southern Illinois University School of Dental MedicineExams, Cleanings, Fillings, Extractions, Dentures, Root canals, Crowns, Bridge, ImplantsChildren and adultsBRACES OR INVISALIGN®
TOTAL PAYMENT

$2,698*

BRACES OR INVISALIGN®
26 MONTHLY PAYMENTS

$89
TOTAL PAYMENT

$2,998*

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
Indiana University School of DentistryPreventive, restorative, endodontic, periodontic, prosthodontic, and oral surgery services.There are no eligibility requirements.The cost of your care will depend on what services you receive.
University of Southern Indiana Dental Hygiene Clinic/a>Dental hygiene services, including cleanings, x-rays, and oral cancer screeningsOpen to the public, no eligibility criteria.Dental Hygiene Treatment
Adults $35.00

Seniors Age 60 & above $15.00

Children Age 10 & Under $10.00

Age 11—17 $20.00

Radiographs And Sealants Only
When requested by a Dentist and NO dental hygiene treatment is provided—fees are as follows:

Full Mouth Series $25.00

Panoramic $25.00

Bitewings $15.00

Sealants $6.00 Ea.

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Iowa College of DentistryPreventive care, periodontics, prosthodontics, pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, endodontics, etc.Adults and children with or without insurance.Varies based on income and insurance status.

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Kentucky College of DentistryCleanings, fillings, extractions, crowns, bridges, dentures, braces.Patients of all agesFees vary based on income and services
University of Louisville School of DentistryCleanings, fillings, extractions, crowns, bridges, dentures, braces.The school will assess your dental needs, address health concerns and make a determination about whether your dental needs can be met by dental students.Fees vary based on income and services

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Kentucky College of DentistryBraces, Dental care for HIV/AIDS patients, Dentistry for children, Dentures, crowns, and bridges, Gum disease, Mouth diseases and oral cancer, Root canal treatment, Smoking cessation counseling, Tooth bleaching, Tooth cleaning, Tooth extractions and Tooth implantsAdults and children who meet criteria.Varies based on servicesbut typically lower than private practice fees

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of New England College of Dental MedicineCleanings, Check-ups, Fillings/Restorations, Root Canals, Crowns,Veneers, Extractions, X-Rays, Partial Dentures, Dentures, Bridges, Implants, Urgent CareAdults and children who meet criteriaFees vary based on income and services
Augusta University Dental AssociatesExams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns, denturesPatients of the Student Clinic must be at least 15 years oldOne-third the usual and customary dental fees charged in private practice

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Maryland School of DentistryCleanings, X-rays, fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns, bridges, dentures, implantsAdults and childrenVaries based on services but typically lower than private practice fees
Baltimore City Community College Dental Hygiene ProgramDental HygieneSeniorsFree

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental MedicineGeneral Dentistry, Endodontics, Orthodontics, Periodontology, Oral Surgery, Pediatric Dentistry and ProsthodonticsPatients of all ages and income levels
Varies based on treatment, but typically lower than private practice fees
Harvard School of Dental MedicineEndodontics, Orthodontics, Periodontology, Prosthodontists and Implant SpecialistPatients of all ages and income levelsVaries based on treatment, but typically lower than private practice fees

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Michigan School of DentistryPreventive care, restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, orthodonticsProvides comprehensive dental care to all patients, including those limited by finances and physical challengesFees are generally lower than those charged in private practice, but vary depending on the treatment needed
University of Detroit Mercy School of DentistryExams, x-rays, cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, Cosmetic dentistry (tooth whitening, veneers), Periodontics (gum) treatment Dental Hygiene services, implant placement, implant restoration, Root canal treatment, TMJ/TMD, oral surgery, extractions, oral lesions, biopsies, pediatric care, and more!Must be screened and accepted as a patientFees are generally lower than those charged in private practice, but vary depending on the treatment needed

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Minnesota School of DentistryPreventive and Restorative Care, Endodontics, Oral Surgery, Orthodontics, Periodontics, Prosthodontics, Pedriatic CarePatients of all ages and income levels

Varies depending on service
Normandale Community College Dental Hygiene ClinicDental HygieneAdults and childrenFrom $15

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Mississippi School of DentistryGeneral dental services, orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodonticsPatients of all ages and income levelsFees are approximately half the cost private practice fees
Mississippi Delta Community College Dental Hygiene ClinicDental hygiene services such as cleanings, x-rays, and examsOpen to the publicLow-cost fees starting at $25

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry Emergency Care, Implant dentistry, operative dentistry, dental hygiene, endodontics, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, prosthodontics, oral radiology, oral surgery, oral pathology and clinical researchPatients of all ages and income levels
Fees average a third to half the cost of a private dentist

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Nebraska Medical Center College of DentistryPreventive and restorative dental care, dental hygiene services, and more advanced treatmentsChildren and adults of all ages who qualify
Varies depending on treatment needed, but typically less expensive than a private practice dentist
Creighton University School of DentistryEmergency services, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, oral surgery, orthodontics, root canal therapy, cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistryPatients of all agesVaries depending on treatment needed, but typically less expensive than a private practice dentist

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
UNLV School of Dental MedicinePreventive care, Restorative care, Endodontic care, Periodontic care, Oral surgery, Orthodontic care (limited)Must be screened and accepted as a patient
Varies depending on treatment needed, but typically less expensive than a private practice dentist

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
Columbia University College of Dental MedicineGeneral Dentistry, Endodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics, ProsthodonticsOpen to all patientsVaries based on treatment needed
New York University College of DentistryGeneral Dentistry, Endodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics, ProsthodonticsOpen to all patientsVaries based on treatment needed

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of DentistryPreventive, restorative, surgical, and cosmetic dental services for patients of all agesThere are no requirements for those who would like to be patientsVaries depending on services provided and insurance coverage
East Carolina University School of Dental MedicinePreventive, restorative, surgical, and orthodontic dental services for adults and childrenPatients of all ages are welcomeVaries depending on services provided and insurance coverage

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of DentistryPreventive, restorative, surgical, and cosmetic dental services for patients of all agesThere are no requirements for those who would like to be patientsVaries depending on services provided and insurance coverage
East Carolina University School of Dental MedicinePreventive, restorative, surgical, and orthodontic dental services for adults and childrenPatients of all ages are welcomeVaries depending on services provided and insurance coverage

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
Case Western Reserve University School of Dental MedicineGeneral dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, pediatric dentistry, oral surgeryMust be screened and accepted as a patientVaries based on treatment needed
The Ohio State University College of Dentistry Basic teeth whitening, Bonding, Cleanings, Crowns, Dental Implants Restoration, Dentures, Extractions, Fillings, Gum disease treatment, Partials, VeneersPatients of all ages are welcomeFees are about 40 to 50 percent less than the Columbus-area average; Medicaid-eligible patients pay even lower fees

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Oklahoma College of DentistryGeneral Dentistry, Endodontics, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics, ProsthodonticsPatients of all ages are eligibleVaries depending on the procedure, but typically lower than the average cost of a private practice

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
Oregon Health & Science University School of DentistryGeneral dentistry services, specialty care, dental hygiene services, pediatric dentistry, oral surgery, orthodonticsOpen to all patients, including those with no insurance Prices are 30 to 40 percent lower than area private practices

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
General dentistry, specialty care, emergency care, oral surgery, implants, cosmetic dentistryOpen to patients of all ages, insurance acceptedVaries based on treatment needed, insurance coverage, and financial aid eligibility
Temple University Kornberg School of DentistryGeneral dentistry, specialty care, emergency care, implants, orthodontics, periodonticsOpen to patients of all ages, insurance acceptedFees vary based on the type of clinic you visit (student, resident, faculty) and procedure you undergo

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
Medical University of South Carolina College of Dental MedicineCleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns, bridges, dentures, and morePatients of all ages, with or without insuranceVaries based on service and insurance coverage
Greenville Technical College Dental Hygiene ClinicCleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments, sealantsPatients aged 3 and up, with or without insuranceFrom $30

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of DentistryGeneral dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistryOpen to all patientsVaries depending on the service and treatment needed
Meharry Medical College School of DentistryGeneral dentistry, pediatric dentistry, endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgeryOpen to all patientsVaries depending on the service and treatment needed

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Texas School of Dentistry at HoustonGeneral dentistry, specialty care, pediatric dentistry, orthodonticsMust be screened and accepted as a patientVaries by procedure and patient income level, financial assistance available
Texas A&M University College of DentistryScreening Cleaning and Urgent Dental Care ClinicYou will need a screening appointment to determine if your oral health needs match the educational needs of our studentsVaries by procedure and patient income level, financial assistance available

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Utah School of DentistryGeneral dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, endodontics, prosthodonticsPatients of all ages, including adults, children, teens, and the elderly.Fees vary depending on the treatment needed.
Roseman University of Health Sciences College of Dental MedicineGeneral dentistry, pediatric dentistry, orthodonticsPatients of all ages, including children and individuals with special needs.Fees vary depending on the treatment needed.

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Virginia School of DentistryPediatric, General dentistry, preventive care, restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontics, orthodontics, oral surgery, and implant dentistry.Patients of all ages are eligible.Fees vary depending on the type of treatment. Payment plans are available for those who qualify.

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
University of Washington School of DentistryPreventive, Restorative, Endodontic, Periodontic, Prosthodontic, Orthodontic, Pediatric, and Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryPatients of all ages and backgroundsVaries based on treatment needed
Columbia Basin College Dental Hygiene ClinicDental x-rays, Dental exams, Cleanings, Oral hygiene instructions, Fluoride applications, Whitening trays (must be at least 18 years of age for this service), Limited restorative treatments (some fillings performed with a supervising dentist)Services are available for patients in any dental health condition, including those who haven’t been to a dentist in decades.Varies based on treatment needed

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
WVU School of DentistryDental hygiene, diagnostic sciences, endodontics, general dentistry, oral surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics and urgent carePatients of all ages and backgroundsVaries based on treatment needed

Services OfferedEligibility CriteriaCost
Marquette University School of DentistryGeneral Dentistry, Endodontics, Orthodontics, Periodontics, Prosthodontics, Pediatric DentistryPatients of all ages with or without insuranceFees are about 50 percent less than a private dental office

How to Obtain Free or Low-Cost Dental Work by Other Means?

Dental care is an essential aspect of maintaining good health, but unfortunately, many people struggle to afford it. While insurance can help cover some costs, not everyone has access to it. Fortunately, there are other ways to obtain free or low-cost dental work. In this section, we will explore some alternative methods for getting the dental care you need without breaking the bank. From community health clinics to dental schools and volunteer organizations, there are a variety of resources available to help you obtain affordable dental care.

Public Dental Clinics

Public dental clinics are government-funded facilities that provide affordable dental services to individuals who cannot afford private dental care. These clinics are typically staffed by licensed dental professionals and offer a range of services, including routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, and X-rays. The cost of services at public dental clinics varies depending on the individual’s income level, with many clinics offering sliding scale fees based on income. Some clinics also accept Medicaid, which can help cover the cost of dental services for eligible individuals.

Free Dental Clinics

Free dental clinics are another option for individuals seeking affordable dental care. These clinics are typically run by nonprofit organizations or volunteer groups and offer services at no cost to patients. While the services offered at free clinics may be more limited than those available at public clinics or private practices, they can still provide essential dental care, such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions. It’s important to note that free dental clinics may have limited availability and longer wait times, so it’s best to call ahead and schedule an appointment if possible.

Government Dental Coverage

Government dental coverage can be a valuable resource for individuals seeking free or low-cost dental work.

Medicaid is a government-funded program that provides health insurance to low-income individuals and families, and in some states, it also covers dental care. Eligibility for Medicaid varies by state, but individuals who qualify can receive a range of dental services, including preventive care, restorative treatments, and emergency care.

CHIP: Another government dental coverage option is the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which provides low-cost or free health and dental coverage to children and teenagers under the age of 19 from families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. Dental services covered by CHIP typically include checkups, cleanings, x-rays, fillings, and extractions.

While government dental coverage may have some limitations, it can be a valuable resource for individuals and families struggling to afford dental care. It’s important to check with your state’s Medicaid or CHIP program to determine your eligibility and available benefits.

Dental Savings Plans

Dental savings plans are another alternative to traditional dental insurance for individuals seeking affordable dental care. These plans work by offering members discounted rates on dental services at participating providers. While they are not insurance plans, they can provide significant savings on a variety of dental procedures, including cleanings, fillings, and orthodontics.

To find the best dental discount plans, it’s important to do your research and compare plan features, fees, and participating providers. Some plans may offer discounts on specific services or have restrictions on pre-existing conditions, so it’s important to review the plan details carefully before signing up.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, getting dental care at a dental school can be a cost-effective and valuable option for individuals who need affordable dental services. While receiving care from students may require more time and patience, the quality of care is overseen by experienced dental professionals, ensuring that patients receive proper treatment. Whether you’re seeking routine cleanings or more complex procedures, dental schools can be a great resource for affordable dental care.

Get our best Deals

Subscribe to our email list to get the lastest updates for your smile

(*) We promise we will never spam you

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.