Dental insurance usually takes a backseat to health insurance, especially for the growing number of people who are struggling to pay for either. This is understandable since, generally speaking, having health insurance is more important. However, living without a dental plan can be awful as well. Not only can ignoring dental problems because treatment is unaffordable cause serious health issues, it can also cause you to live in constant pain. If you are one of the millions of people without dental coverage, it is worth your time to investigate whether or not you qualify for one of several free dental insurance sources. Below is a list of channels to investigate.
1) Government programs. There are some state and federal programs out there that provide free dental plans for those who can't afford it. In order to qualify for these programs, your income level must fall under a certain line and you must meet other requirements as well. Often, certain government funded programs are in place to specifically help a select group of people, like senior citizens, single mothers, etc. The number of programs available and the specifics of them vary state by state. In order to learn what specific programs may be available to you, contact your state health department.
2) Student dental insurance. If you are a college student taking enough credits to qualify as a full time student, and your parents no longer claim you as a dependant, you will most likely qualify for dental coverage that is designed specifically for students. Contact the health department of the college you are attending for specific program options.
3) Military veteran benefits. There are many federally funded programs for ex military members that may work out to be free, or at the very least of minimal out of pocket cost to you. Many of these programs extend to family members of the veteran so even if you personally have never served, you may still qualify. Surprisingly, these benefit s can often be offered to those who aren't even immediate family members of the veteran.
For more help in finding free dental insurance or low cost plans, visit the Affordable Dental Insurance Directory. It is a free online resource to help those without coverage obtain a plan that meets their needs and fits within their budget.
