Poor dental health can result in cascading conditions that require further and more expensive medical care. If you cannot afford quality dental care there are several avenues to pursue to procure quality dental care at low or no cost.

Clinics

Find a clinic that offers a sliding pay scale or free care. There are a number of free clinics that offer dental care and preventative dental care, but the options vary state by state. The American Dental Association (see Resources) lists state dental societies that can help determine the available dental resources in state for people in need.

Dental Colleges

Contact a dental college or university in your area. Future dentists need to practice, and for that they need patients. Many dental programs will offer free care to those who are willing to serve as patient subjects in a teaching setting. The time spent might be longer than a traditional dentist's office, but the standard of care will be equivalent as the students are supervised by trained professionals.

Clinical Trials

Participate in a clinical trial. Innovation in medicine requires testing and practice; specific medical conditions, including dental conditions, may be the subject to a clinical trial. The American Dental Association (see Resources) provides links to ongoing government-sponsored clinical trials. Subjects may receive a stipend in addition to the care given as part of the clinical trial.

Source:

American Dental Association Dental Education Programs

More Information:

American Dental Association State Organizations

NICDR Current Clinical Dental Trials