Dental Services
Improvements in oral health care have allowed us to keep more of our natural teeth as we age. Our teeth are important for health and nutrition as well as comfort and appearance.
Unfortunately, Medicare doesn’t cover most dental care
The Rhode Island Department of Health offers Oral Health Information that includes steps you can take to maintain good oral hygiene.
The Rhode Island Department of Health can assist you in finding licensed dentists as well as Free or Low-Cost Dental Care.
The Executive Office of Health & Human Services of Rhode Island maintains information on “Dental Services for Adults”. This website includes information on Medicaid Dental Services, providers that accept Medicaid and the Nursing Home Mobil Dental Program.
Rhode Island Dental Association provides the Dental Safety Net Clinics. The dental safety net provides urgent and basic care.
Dental Lifeline
10 Orms Street Suite 350
Providence RI 02904
401-821-8656
Dental Lifeline provides donated dental services to eligible individuals who may be permanently disabled, over the age of 65 or medically fragile. They do NOT provide emergency services. All applications must be submitted through the DDS Coordinator.
Rhode Island Donated Dental Services
Rhode Island Donated Dental Services provides comprehensive dental care to eligible patients. An application for services is required and applicants must be permanently disabled or age 65 or older and qualify as medically fragile. Note that Veterans have a different application than civilians to complete.
Community College of Rhode Island Dental Hygiene Clinic
CCRI’s dental hygiene clinic provides free dental cleanings to the public. Everyone is eligible to receive services. Services are performed by dental hygiene students who are supervised by a licensed dentist and dental hygienist. Appointments are 2 hours long and available from September to May. Sealants and x-rays are also available for a small fee.
Older Adults and Oral Health
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) provides information on tooth decay, gum disease, dry mouth and oral Cancer.
Click here to read the NIDCR information on Older Adults and Oral Health.
Brushing Someone Else’s Teeth
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) provides practical guidance and tips to help brush someone else’s teeth.
Flossing Someone Else’s Teeth
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) provides practical guidance and tips to help floss someone else’s teeth.