Nevada can be a welcoming state for seniors because it lacks a state income tax. It also has low property taxes, pleasant weather, and it is culturally and racially diverse. In addition, there are many outdoor activities older adults with a lot of time on their hands can enjoy.
However, a few cons may make the elderly think twice about becoming a Nevadan. The state has a high cost of living which beats the point of not having an income tax. It also has high crime and accident rates, and summers can get too hot, so cooling systems are necessary. The urban parts of Nevada have traffic jams that can make traveling a nightmare for the elderly.
The high cost of living has made amenities like medical bills, Dental Grants in Nevada, utility bills, and other expenses too expensive, especially for ignored populations and communities. These factors have influenced the relevant authorities to take measures to ensure Nevadans can afford basic needs and resources to enable them to live healthy and happy lives.
Are There Dental Grants in Nevada?
In a national analysis of health data in Nevada, reports show that the state has a shortage of healthcare providers compared to the USA overall. For dental providers, Clark County has a dentist for every 1,593 Nevadans, and Washoe County and Carson City each have one dentist for every 1,433 and 1,001 citizens, respectively. The situation is dire in rural areas, with Storey having zero dentists while, in Lander, one dentist serves 5,514 Nevadans.
In 2020, 64.4% of seniors above 65 visited a dentist that year, a rise from 63.7% in 2016. Moreover, a larger percentage of seniors with a higher education level visited a dental clinic compared to those with lower education levels. Households with more than $75,000 income saw dental providers more often than those that earned below $25,000.
The shortage of dental providers, education level, and income have influenced the oral health of Nevadans. The cost of care is the biggest influencer on the frequency of office visits for insured and uninsured patients. The local, state, and federal governments develop strategies to ease the burden of healthcare costs on citizens to ensure they do not neglect their oral health. One of the strategies is providing Dental Grants in Nevada who are less fortunate.
How To Find Financial Help For Dental Grants in Nevada
There are agencies, both government and non-government, that are stakeholders in promoting the oral health of Nevadans. The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services has a branch, the Aging and Disability Services Division (ADSD), responsible for elderly citizens’ welfare. ADSD has programs like the Medicare Assistance Program that assist seniors with their dental bills.
The American Dental Association, Dental Lifeline Network, Nevada Dental Association, and private dentists are working together to:
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Increase Dental Grants in Nevada for uninsured and underinsured Nevadans
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Promote the building and operation of dental clinics to expand existing dental care
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Sponsor students interested in dentistry courses
Not everyone is eligible for Dental Grants in Nevada. The eligibility criteria for grants are specific to an organization. The Donated Dental Services in Nevada accept applicants that meet either one of the following criteria:
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Require medically necessary Dental Grants in Nevada
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Have a lifelong disability
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Lack of any means of affording treatment
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Are over 65 and unable to work for an income
The program for Dental Grants in Nevada does not provide cosmetic treatments or emergency services because of the number of applicants. You can submit your application online through Dental Lifeline Networks.
Dental Grants in Nevada
Dental grants are awarded to improve the oral health of the underprivileged in society who lack the means of affording dental care services.
Cosmetic Dental Grants in Nevada
Some dental grants cover the costs of expensive cosmetic dental procedures like dentures, veneers, crowns, and Invisalign that are not covered by insurance companies.
Dental Implant Grants
Older adults experience tooth loss and require Dental Grants in Nevada to restore their confidence. Retirees with no active income can apply for dental implant grants to help them pay for costly treatments.
Free Dental Implant Clinical Trials
Trials of dental implants are conducted to ensure the efficiency of dental and the safety of patients while undergoing treatment. Participation in clinical is voluntary and only patients with oral health problems of interest qualify to be part of the study. Visit the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research to learn more about ongoing studies you can benefit from.
Dental schools
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas, School of Dental Medicine offers reduced-cost dental care services to eligible patients. First, you will book a screening appointment which will determine if you qualify for treatment. Next, you will be matched to a student doctor offering dental care services and performing oral treatments under strict supervision. The medical school has:
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General Dental Clinics: Cost the least, but have a long waiting list.
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Graduate Specialty Clinic: Services are provided by licensed dentists pursuing advanced degrees. Costs are higher than in general dental clinics.
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Faculty Dental Practice: Dental care services are offered by licensed faculty dental providers, cost more, have standards similar to private practice and accept a wider range of insurance covers.
Are There Charities/ Local Organizations That Help With Dental Costs?
Community Health Alliance
Although the Community Health Alliance focuses on children’s needs, the organization makes exceptions for seniors that require emergency dental care.
Mission of Mercy
For over 20 years, Mission of Mercy, with the help of over 200 volunteer dental providers, has offered free dental care and medication to uninsured and underinsured Nevadans. The two-day event entails on-site mobile dental clinics that provide screenings, cleanings, oral examinations, and restorative care on a first-come-first-served basis.
Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada
In extreme circumstances, Catholic Charities provides financial assistance to seniors to help them pay for expenses like medical bills, utility bills, rent, and dental costs.
Are There Free Or Low-cost Dental Clinics In Nevada?
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UNLV Dental School – Las Vegas
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Elko Family Medical & Dental – Elko
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Community Health Alliance – Reno, Sparks
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Affordable Dental – Laughlin
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Sunstone Dental Care – Henderson
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US Dental Group – Las Vegas
This is just a small list for those looking for affordable or sliding fee-scale dental clinics.
Does Medicare Cover Dental Implants In Nevada?
Dental insurance, unless medically necessary, is not covered by Original Medicare plans. However, Medicare does have options that cover these costs, including dental implants. With your Medicare Advantage premium, preventive care services like cleanings, x-rays, and fluoride treatments are included. For comprehensive oral health services, you can get insurance coverage from private insurance for roughly $30 to $60.
Are There Grants Or Programs For Helping With Fillings, Decay, Cleanings, And Root Canal Costs?
Most reduced-cost clinics offer fillings, decay, cleanings, and root canals at discounted prices. Also, speak to your dentist about discounts you can benefit from as a regular patient at their clinic. Your local dentist can explain programs that can help pay for these costs.
Finance Assistance for Seniors on the Indian Subcontinent
Supplemental Security Income is federal aid offered to seniors above 65 determined by assets and income to help them afford their basic needs.
Charity organizations like Nevada Community Associates and Project of Hope Nevada are local organizations that support struggling seniors with monetary support.
Living in Nevada can be expensive for retirees without an income. However, life can be better if you use the resources at your disposal. It is your responsibility to benefit from resources that will make you smile confidently.
Also Read: Raised Toilet Seats For Seniors
