Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in Maine
Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in Maine
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, save‑time guide to getting dental care covered or discounted in Maine. It starts with emergency actions, then moves into step‑by‑step options that work statewide and locally. You’ll see plain‑English directions, real phone numbers, and links you can click on right away.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call MaineCare Member Services now to check if you or your kids can get same‑day or retroactive coverage through MaineCare (state Medicaid) and ask for help finding a dentist who takes your coverage. Use TTY 711 if needed. Use this number: 1‑800‑977‑6740. See benefits and contacts at MaineCare Covered Services, apply online at My Maine Connection, and read how MaineCare handles calls at Member Resources. (maine.gov)
- If you have an urgent dental problem in Greater Portland and no dentist, go to the walk‑in urgent clinic at the University of New England Oral Health Center. Check in at 7:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m., expect a set triage fee, and bring MaineCare or cash card. Get details at UNE Oral Health Center, see urgent walk‑in hours at UNE Urgent Dental Care, and confirm accepted insurance at UNE Fees and Insurance. (une.edu)
- Need a ride to the dentist and you have MaineCare? Book Non‑Emergency Transportation at least two business days ahead. If your broker is Modivcare, service is continuing despite their bankruptcy filing. Confirm your county’s broker at MaineCare Transportation, read the service update at MaineCare NET Update, and call Member Services at 1‑800‑977‑6740 TTY 711 for help. (maine.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy
- MaineCare Member Services — 1‑800‑977‑6740 TTY 711, benefit help and dentist search: MaineCare Member Resources, MaineCare Covered Services, Apply at My Maine Connection. (www11.maine.gov)
- 211 Maine — Find low‑cost dental clinics and help lines: dial 211 or 1‑877‑463‑6207, or text your ZIP to 898‑211. Use 211 Maine search, How to reach 211, and About 211 Maine. (211maine.org)
- UNE Oral Health Center Urgent Clinic — Portland walk‑in emergency care: UNE Urgent Dental Care, UNE OHC contact, UNE Fees and Insurance. (une.edu)
- General Assistance (municipal help for urgent dental bills) — apply at your town office; hotline 1‑800‑442‑6003: General Assistance info, OFI programs, and New GA rule update. (maine.gov)
- Non‑Emergency Transportation brokers — county‑specific numbers: MaineCare Transportation page, Penquis Transportation, and Waldo CAP MidCoast Connector. (maine.gov)
MaineCare Dental Coverage — What Single Moms Need to Do Today
MaineCare offers comprehensive dental coverage for adults and kids. That matters if you’ve been skipping care because of cost. Start by checking eligibility, then ask for a dentist list, and book the first available visit.
- Eligibility and coverage at a glance include exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals, gum care, and dentures for adults, and full EPSDT coverage for children and teens under 21. Read the benefit list at MaineCare Covered Services, see the 2022 adult expansion in Section 25 policy update, and review rate methodology notes at Proposed and Adopted Rules. (maine.gov)
- How to apply fast: apply online at My Maine Connection, or mail, email, or fax the form to the Farmington processing office. Use MaineCare Application, check “How to apply” at Health Care Assistance, and see marketplace coordination at CoverME.gov Apply. (maine.gov)
- Expected timeline: most non‑disability MaineCare decisions take up to 45 days, with possible temporary coverage if it takes longer. Read timing tips at CAHC: When will I know if I’m eligible, see OFI call center hours at OFI page, and track messages in My Maine Connection. (mainecahc.org)
- Finding a dentist who accepts MaineCare: call MaineCare Member Services and ask for a list by town and specialty; also use nonprofit clinics listed below. Start at MaineCare Member Resources, review consumer help at Maine Equal Justice, and see clinic directories at Maine CDC Oral Health. (www11.maine.gov)
- Transportation to appointments: MaineCare covers rides and mileage reimbursement; book at least two business days ahead. Learn how at MaineCare Transportation, see the September 8, 2025 update at NET Update, and view broker examples at Penquis Transportation. (maine.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work — ask your town for General Assistance to cover urgent dental care or prescriptions while your MaineCare is pending, and ask 211 to locate a clinic with sooner openings. Start at General Assistance, call 211 or text your ZIP to 898‑211 at 211 Maine, and check UNE’s urgent clinic at UNE Urgent Dental Care. (maine.gov)
MaineCare Dental Coverage: What’s Included and When Prior Authorization Is Needed
Below is a quick overview. The exact rules can shift, so confirm with Member Services or your dentist’s office before treatment.
| Service category | Covered for adults with MaineCare | Typical notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exams, X‑rays, cleanings, fluoride | Yes | Routine prevention is covered statewide under adult benefit. (maine.gov) |
| Fillings, extractions | Yes | Standard restorative and oral surgery are included. (maine.gov) |
| Root canals, gum treatment | Yes | Some periodontal therapy may require prior authorization. (www1.maine.gov) |
| Crowns, dentures | Yes | Crowns and some prosthodontics may need prior authorization; dentures no longer require a qualifying medical condition. (maine.gov) |
| Sedation, complex cases | Yes | May require prior authorization; ask your treating dentist to submit. (www1.maine.gov) |
Learn more at MaineCare Covered Services, policy notes at Section 25 updates, and rate methodology at Proposed/Adopted Rules. (maine.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work — ask your dentist to submit a prior authorization or request to exceed quantity limits, and call MaineCare Member Services to check status. See PA guidance for dental, call 1‑800‑977‑6740 TTY 711 via Member Resources, and ask CAHC for free help at CAHC Dental Help. (www1.maine.gov)
Low‑Cost and Sliding‑Fee Dental Options Across Maine
For faster access, combine the MaineCare dentist list with nonprofit clinics that take MaineCare and offer sliding fees. Always call first for availability, documents, and payment policies.
- Community Dental serves multiple sites and accepts MaineCare with sliding fees. Check locations at Community Dental Maine, view Lewiston details at Lewiston Center, and Farmington details at Farmington Center. (communitydentalme.org)
- UNE Oral Health Center (Portland) provides low‑fee student‑supervised care and a same‑day urgent clinic. Start with UNE OHC, check urgent walk‑in at UNE Urgent Care, and call 207‑221‑4747 at UNE Contact. (une.edu)
- UMA Dental Hygiene Clinic (Bangor) offers low‑cost cleanings and preventive care by students under dentist supervision. View clinic info via UMA Dental Patient Services, see news items like Give Kids a Smile at BDN coverage, and search 211 at 211 Maine. (www1.maine.gov)
- Waterville Community Dental Center (Oakland) takes MaineCare and has sliding fees. See hours and forms at WCDC site, request an appointment at WCDC Request, and check if they’re taking new patients at WCDC New Patients. (communitydental.org)
- Kennebec Valley Family Dentistry (Augusta) accepts MaineCare and offers reduced fees. Confirm details at KVFD contact, verify address by map at KVFD Map, and look up GA help if needed at General Assistance. (augustamaine.com)
- Lincoln County Dental (Wiscasset) offers safety‑net care on a sliding scale. Find contact info at Lincoln County Dental, confirm local listing at Wiscasset Chamber, and see Maine CDC clinic listings at Maine CDC Clinics page. (lcdental.org)
- FQHC health centers across Maine provide dental with sliding fees. Check Greater Portland Health dental, see Penobscot Community Health Care, and search the Maine CDC list at Oral Health Clinics. (greaterportlandhealth.org)
- Island and rural clinics like Islands Community Medical Services provide dental with sliding fees. Check ICMS Dental, find Vinalhaven dental number at Map listing, and use 211 to locate ferries/transport links at 211 Maine. (icmsvh.org)
- Mobile and school‑based hygiene options fill gaps statewide. See Tooth Protectors, book a clinic at TP Schedule, and review fees for preventive services at TP Fees. (toothprotectors.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work — ask 211 to search for pop‑up free clinics (AMEN or Caring Hands of Maine events), and check UNE urgent care again the next morning. See Caring Hands of Maine, read recent free‑clinic coverage at Bangor Daily News, and use UNE Urgent Dental Care. (caringhandsofmaine.org)
Donated Care: Maine Donated Dental Services and Veterans’ Dental Network
If you truly cannot afford care and don’t qualify for MaineCare, apply to donated care programs. Expect wait lists and county limits.
- Dental Lifeline Network — Donated Dental Services (DDS) links volunteer dentists with adults who are older, disabled, or need medically necessary dental care. Maine currently accepts applications in selected counties only. Check current county list and apply at DLN Maine DDS, see foundation support at DLN News, and keep 211 handy at 211 Maine. (dentallifeline.org)
- Maine Veterans’ Dental Network (MVDN) provides free or very low‑cost care for eligible veterans without dental insurance. Read 2025 funding details at Governor’s announcement, see clinic list and phones at BMVS Dental Care page, and confirm teaching‑clinic partners at UMA news. (maine.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work — ask your town’s General Assistance to cover an extraction or antibiotics while you wait, and re‑apply to DDS when your county opens. Use General Assistance info, watch DLN Maine DDS, and dial 211 Maine for stop‑gap clinics. (maine.gov)
Getting to Appointments: Transportation, Childcare, and Scheduling
Transportation is a common barrier for single moms. MaineCare covers rides and mileage. Nonprofits can help with forms and day‑of logistics.
- Book your ride at least two business days ahead and keep confirmation numbers. Read instructions at MaineCare Transportation, check the 2025 continuity update at NET Update, and see sample county brokers at Penquis Transportation. (maine.gov)
- Broker examples and numbers are below; always verify your own county on the state’s PDF list.
| Region or counties | Broker and contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Penobscot, Piscataquis | Penquis 207‑974‑2420 or 1‑855‑437‑5883 | MaineCare rides and reimbursements. (penquis.org) |
| Kennebec, Somerset | Penquis 207‑973‑3605 or 1‑844‑736‑7847 | Call to schedule or cancel. (penquis.org) |
| Waldo, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Brunswick/Harpswell | MidCoast Connector 1‑855‑930‑7900 | Operated by Waldo CAP. (waldocap.org) |
Also keep MaineCare Transportation page, 211 Maine, and AccessMaine Transportation handy for updates and school‑based rides. (maine.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work — ask your clinic about gas reimbursement forms, check if a family/friend driver can be paid, and reschedule with a tele‑screening if offered. Review forms at Penquis transportation forms, read school‑based ride notes at MaineCare Transportation, and call MaineCare Member Services if a ride no‑shows. (penquis.org)
Paying Without Insurance: Realistic, Legit Options
There are several ways to reduce costs if you don’t qualify for MaineCare and need care now.
- Go to a teaching clinic for lower fees. UNE accepts MaineCare and has affordable rates for most services. Learn about getting started at UNE New Patients, check urgent walk‑in at UNE Urgent Care, and confirm fees/insurance at UNE Fees. (une.edu)
- Use FQHCs with sliding fees. Greater Portland Health, PCHC, and Eastport Health Care all accept MaineCare and offer sliding scales. See Greater Portland Health dental, PCHC, and Eastport Health Care. (greaterportlandhealth.org)
- Ask your town for General Assistance for medically necessary dental care like extractions or dentures. Start at General Assistance, check municipal updates at MMA legal note, and read rule adoption at GA Rule 26A. (maine.gov)
- Check nonprofit/missions for pop‑up free clinics, especially in rural areas. See Caring Hands of Maine, read free‑clinic coverage at The County/BDN, and ask 211 to flag the next event at 211 Maine. (caringhandsofmaine.org)
Sample low‑fee reference points for budgeting purposes
| Clinic | Example fees (as posted) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UNE Urgent Clinic | $77 urgent evaluation fee, plus treatment costs | MaineCare and Northeast Delta Dental accepted. (une.edu) |
| Tooth Protectors (hygiene) | 75–75–85 cleaning; 35fluoride;35 fluoride; 140 full‑mouth debridement | Prices vary by site and need. (toothprotectors.org) |
| FQHCs | Sliding fees based on income and family size | Confirm at Greater Portland Health/PCHC. (greaterportlandhealth.org) |
What to do if this doesn’t work — talk with your dentist about staging care (treat infection first), ask for a cash‑pay discount, and request a written estimate to apply for GA. Use General Assistance, check Maine CDC Oral Health clinics list, and lean on 211 Maine for a second opinion site. (maine.gov)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Maine Today
Pain meds, antibiotics, and dental recovery all require stable utilities. Maine has strong consumer protections during winter and for medical emergencies.
- Winter protection: November 15 to April 15, ask your utility for a Special Payment Arrangement you can afford. Call the Maine PUC hotline if needed. Read rules at PUC FAQ, view more details at PUC FAQ alt link, and check rule summaries at C.M.R. 65‑407‑815. (www1.maine.gov)
- Medical emergency hold: if someone at home has a medical emergency, your utility must continue or reconnect service once certified by an authorized medical professional. See Medical emergency rule, check casetext summary at Section 815‑11, and keep the PUC hotline: 1‑800‑452‑4699. (regulations.justia.com)
- Bills help: apply for HEAP at your local Community Action Agency or online, and ask your water district about low‑income rates. See MaineHousing HEAP, LIHEAP Maine profile, and Portland Water District Lifeline rates. (mainehousing.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work — call 211 for a same‑day referral, ask your dentist for a “medical certification” to back your utility request, and ask your town for GA to cover past‑due utilities during recovery. Use 211 Maine, read PUC medical emergency rule, and General Assistance. (211maine.org)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support
- Maine CDC Oral Health Program provides directories and helps connect families to prevention. Use Oral Health homepage, check clinic lists at Maine CDC Clinics, and look at school initiatives at SOHP news. (maine.gov)
- Caring Hands of Maine sets up free pop‑up clinics in rural areas and runs offices in Ellsworth and Southwest Harbor. Check sites at CHM office info, see discounts for extern appointments at CHM homepage, and read coverage at Bangor Daily News. (caringhandsofmaine.org)
- Mainely Teeth offers low‑cost care at fixed clinics and through mobile dentistry, including partnerships with immigrant groups. See Mainely Teeth sites, get contact details at Mainely Teeth, and confirm hours at Locations page. (mainelyteeth.org)
- Catholic Charities Maine supports refugees, offers orthodontics for kids at Jessie Albert Dental, and runs the Office of Maine Refugee Services. Get dental clinic contacts at Jessie Albert Dental, RIS contacts at Refugee Services, and OMRS contacts at OMRS contact. (ccmaine.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work — dial 211 to find church‑run pop‑ups, ask your school nurse about on‑site varnish or sealant days, and call your county FQHC about cancellations. Use 211 Maine, see school‑based hygiene at Tooth Protectors, and review the Maine CDC Clinics list. (211maine.org)
Resources by Region — Where to Start Calling
This list is not exhaustive. Always call to confirm hours, MaineCare acceptance, and new‑patient status.
- Southern Maine (Cumberland and York) — Community Dental Portland, Greater Portland Health dental, Mainely Teeth Portland. (communitydentalme.org)
- Central Maine (Kennebec and Androscoggin) — Kennebec Valley Family Dentistry, Community Dental Lewiston, Maine CDC clinics listing. (augustamaine.com)
- Midcoast (Lincoln, Knox, Waldo, Sagadahoc) — Lincoln County Dental, Jessie Albert Dental & Orthodontic Center, Waldo CAP MidCoast Connector rides. (lcdental.org)
- Western Maine (Oxford, Franklin, Somerset) — Community Dental Farmington, Waterville Community Dental, KVCAP transport coordination. (communitydentalme.org)
- Eastern Maine (Penobscot, Piscataquis) — PCHC Dental, Community Dental Lewiston (nearby), Penquis rides. (pchc.com)
- Downeast (Hancock, Washington) — Caring Hands of Maine, Eastport Health Care, Maine CDC clinics list. (caringhandsofmaine.org)
- Northern Maine (Aroostook) — Fish River Rural Health, Clinic contact portal, Maine CDC clinics list. (frrh.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work — ask 211 to search nearby counties, check UNE urgent walk‑in, and request MaineCare transportation to any accepting clinic. Use 211 Maine, UNE Urgent Dental, and MaineCare Transportation. (211maine.org)
Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask clinics about name/pronoun updates and privacy. MaineCare covers gender‑affirming care, and clinics will help coordinate screenings during dental treatment plans. Review MaineCare Member Resources, see Covered Services, and use 211 Maine for LGBTQ‑friendly providers. (www11.maine.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: request accessible rooms and longer appointment times; MaineCare provides interpreter services and transportation. See Interpreter services, MaineCare Transportation, and PCHC sliding fees. (www11.maine.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: apply to the Maine Veterans’ Dental Network if uninsured. Start at BMVS Dental Care, see 2025 grant news at Governor’s press, and call 207‑287‑6836 from the program page. (www1.maine.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: ask for help with forms and interpreters from Catholic Charities and partner clinics. See Refugee & Immigration Services, OMRS contact, and Mainely Teeth at MAIN. (ccmaine.org)
- Tribal‑specific resources: call your tribal health department or Wabanaki Public Health for referrals and Purchased/Referred Care. Use Penobscot Nation Dental, Wabanaki Public Health & Wellness, and Maliseet PRC. (penobscotnation.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: combine mobile hygiene, FQHCs, and MaineCare rides to reach care. Use Caring Hands of Maine, Find clinics at Maine CDC, and MaineCare Transportation. (caringhandsofmaine.org)
- Single fathers: every resource here applies equally; use the same MaineCare contacts and clinic lists. Start at MaineCare Member Resources, Maine CDC Oral Health, and 211 Maine. (www11.maine.gov)
- Language access: ask for large‑print applications or interpreter services; TTY users should dial 711 when calling state lines. See MaineCare Member Resources, OFI Applications & Forms, and 211 Maine contact. (www11.maine.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work — ask 211 for a clinic with interpreters, request tele‑interpreter service at check‑in, and call MaineCare to note your language needs. Use 211 Maine, Interpreter services, and OFI Programs. (211maine.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply until you have every document. Apply first, then upload documents as requested. Use My Maine Connection, check CAHC’s tips at How to apply, and track messages at CoverME.gov. (maine.gov)
- Not calling about transportation until the day before. Book rides two business days ahead. Use MaineCare Transportation, see NET Update, and keep Penquis info handy. (maine.gov)
- Skipping urgent care because you think every clinic is full. Try teaching clinics with same‑day triage. See UNE Urgent Dental Care, browse Maine CDC clinics, and call 211 Maine. (une.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work — ask for “antibiotics and pain control first” while you wait, request a cancellation list spot, and apply for GA for temporary relief. Use General Assistance, check Maine CDC clinics, and call MaineCare Member Services. (maine.gov)
Reality Check
- Funding and staffing are tight: many clinics limit new adult MaineCare patients. Always ask to be added to a cancellation list. Look at Maine CDC clinic directory, use 211 Maine for alternatives, and consider Tooth Protectors for preventive care while you wait. (maine.gov)
- Prior authorizations slow things down: crowns, deep cleaning, and sedation can need approvals. Ask your dentist to submit early. See Dental PA bulletin, check MaineCare Covered Services, and keep Member Services in your contacts. (www1.maine.gov)
- Travel is part of the plan: rides are available statewide through brokers. Schedule early and confirm 24 hours ahead. See Transportation page, read NET update, and view Waldo CAP MidCoast Connector. (maine.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work — switch to any provider with an opening even if it’s farther away, use MaineCare rides, and ask for tele‑screening to cut trips. Start at Transportation, call Member Services, and check 211 Maine. (maine.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | First call or click | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Find a dentist who takes MaineCare | MaineCare Member Services | Maine CDC clinics list |
| Apply for MaineCare | My Maine Connection | CoverME.gov Apply |
| Book transportation | MaineCare Transportation | Penquis rides |
| Urgent dental today (Portland) | UNE Urgent Dental Care | 211 Maine |
| No money, need extraction | General Assistance | DLN DDS Maine |
Application Checklist — Save or Screenshot
- Proof of Maine residency — license, lease, or mail; upload via My Maine Connection; ask OFI for help if you can’t upload.
- Proof of identity and SSN — IDs for you and kids; call MaineCare Member Services with questions on newborns.
- Proof of income — last pay stubs or benefit letters; see CAHC apply tips for document ideas.
- Childcare and medical expense info — can affect eligibility; read Health Care Assistance.
- Transportation needs — note mobility or language needs; request at MaineCare Transportation.
Troubleshooting — If Your MaineCare Application Gets Denied
- Check the notice for the reason and missing documents, then upload through My Maine Connection. Use MMC portal, call OFI Call Center at 1‑855‑797‑4357, and ask CAHC for free help at CAHC. (maine.gov)
- Request a fair hearing if you believe the decision is wrong; do it by the deadline on your notice. See Member Resources, check the handbook link on that page, and ask your clinic social worker for a letter. (www11.maine.gov)
- Bridge your care with General Assistance or a teaching clinic while the appeal is pending. Use General Assistance, check UNE OHC, and call 211 Maine. (maine.gov)
County‑Specific Notes That Often Matter
- DLN DDS coverage changes by county; apply only when your county opens. Confirm current status at DLN Maine DDS, ask 211 for interim options at 211 Maine, and consider Caring Hands of Maine events. (dentallifeline.org)
- Midcoast rides are handled by Waldo CAP’s MidCoast Connector; keep their number handy. See MidCoast Connector, view state transport page at MaineCare Transportation, and save Penquis rides if you travel outside your home region. (waldocap.org)
- Aroostook and Downeast pop‑ups happen a few times a year; watch local news and call 211 to get on lists. Read BDN/The County coverage, check Maine CDC directory, and follow Caring Hands of Maine. (thecounty.me)
What to do if this doesn’t work — be flexible on distance, ask for MaineCare mileage reimbursement, and request a written treatment plan to prioritize the most urgent work. Use MaineCare Transportation, contact Member Services, and keep 211 Maine in your favorites. (maine.gov)
Tables — Maine Dental Help at a Glance
Key phone lines and websites (save these)
| Topic | Number / link | Use this for |
|---|---|---|
| MaineCare Member Services | 1‑800‑977‑6740 TTY 711, Member Resources | Benefits, dentist lists, coverage questions |
| Apply for MaineCare | My Maine Connection | Applications, uploads, renewals |
| MaineCare Transportation | Transportation page | Rides and mileage reimbursement |
| 211 Maine | Dial 211 or text ZIP to 898‑211, 211 Maine | Clinic searches, emergency referrals |
| General Assistance | 1‑800‑442‑6003, GA info | Temp help for dental bills, meds |
FQHC dental starting points
| Area | Clinic | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Portland | Greater Portland Health | GPH Oral Health |
| Bangor | Penobscot Community Health Care | PCHC |
| Eastport/Machias | Eastport Health Care | EHC |
Teaching and nonprofit centers
| Location | Clinic | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Portland | UNE Oral Health Center | UNE OHC |
| Bangor | UMA Dental Hygiene Clinic | UMA Dental Patient Services |
| Multi‑site | Community Dental | Community Dental Maine |
Transportation brokers (examples)
| Counties | Broker | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Penobscot, Piscataquis | Penquis | 207‑974‑2420 or 1‑855‑437‑5883 |
| Kennebec, Somerset | Penquis | 207‑973‑3605 or 1‑844‑736‑7847 |
| Waldo, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc (+ Brunswick/Harpswell) | MidCoast Connector | 1‑855‑930‑7900 |
Real‑World Examples
- You need a same‑week extraction: call MaineCare Member Services and ask for “any dentist with next opening,” then call UNE Urgent Clinic to stabilize pain. Use Member Resources, UNE Urgent Dental Care, and request a ride at Transportation. (www11.maine.gov)
- You live in rural Aroostook and nobody is taking new patients: ask 211 to find the next Caring Hands of Maine pop‑up nearby, then book MaineCare mileage reimbursement. Use The County/BDN article, Caring Hands of Maine, and Transportation page. (thecounty.me)
- You’re a veteran and a single parent: apply to the MVDN for free care while also applying for MaineCare. Start at BMVS Dental Care, read Governor’s 2025 grant, and apply for coverage at My Maine Connection. (www1.maine.gov)
FAQs — Maine Dental Care for Single Moms
- How fast can MaineCare start paying for dental? Application decisions can take up to 45 days. If processing goes longer, you may qualify for temporary coverage. See CAHC timing, apply at My Maine Connection, and call OFI if your status seems stuck. (mainecahc.org)
- Does MaineCare cover adult dentures? Yes, as part of the comprehensive adult benefit; prior authorization rules can apply. Review Covered Services, policy updates at Section 25, and PA notes at PA bulletin. (maine.gov)
- What if no local dentist takes MaineCare? Ask Member Services for the nearest provider, use FQHCs with sliding fees, and request a MaineCare ride. See Member Resources, Maine CDC clinics, and Transportation. (www11.maine.gov)
- Where can I go today for an abscess in Portland? Try UNE’s urgent walk‑in clinic. See UNE Urgent Dental Care, confirm coverage at UNE Fees, and arrange rides at Transportation. (une.edu)
- I’m uninsured. Are there payment plans? Teaching clinics offer lower fees; towns can grant General Assistance for medically necessary dental care. Use UNE OHC, General Assistance, and Maine CDC clinics. (une.edu)
- Can my teen get braces through MaineCare? Orthodontia is limited; ask your dentist/orthodontist to review policy and medical necessity. Start at Covered Services, check Section 25 updates, and call Member Services. (maine.gov)
- Do I get an interpreter at the dentist? Yes, you can ask for interpreter services through your provider; they’re also available when calling MaineCare. See Interpreter services, use 211 Maine for clinics, and visit OFI if you need help with paperwork. (www11.maine.gov)
- Is transportation available for my child’s school‑based services? Yes, but school‑linked services are arranged by providers. Read the note at MaineCare Transportation, ask your school nurse, and call Member Services with questions. (maine.gov)
- I’m a veteran but not 100% service‑connected. Can I get dental**? Apply to MVDN if you lack dental insurance. Check BMVS Dental Care, read Governor’s 2025 grant, and ask 211 for partners near you at 211 Maine. (www1.maine.gov)
- How can I find dental care near me fast? Use three tools at once: 211’s directory, Maine CDC’s clinic list, and MaineCare Member Services. Try 211 Maine, Maine CDC Clinics, and Member Resources. (211maine.org)
Español — Resumen Rápido para Madres Solteras en Maine
Traducción generada con herramientas de IA.
- Cobertura dental de MaineCare: adultos y niños pueden recibir limpiezas, empastes, extracciones, conductos y más. Revise Servicios cubiertos, solicite en My Maine Connection, y llame a MaineCare Member Services al 1‑800‑977‑6740 TTY 711. (maine.gov)
- Clínicas de bajo costo y urgencias: la clínica dental de UNE en Portland acepta pacientes sin cita para urgencias; Community Dental y los FQHCs ofrecen tarifas según ingresos. (une.edu)
- Transporte: MaineCare paga transporte no urgente con cita previa; ver Transporte de MaineCare, y la actualización del 08‑sep‑2025 en NET Update; marque 211 para más recursos en 211 Maine. (maine.gov)
- Asistencia municipal: pida Ayuda General en su municipio para tratamientos urgentes o medicamentos. Vea General Assistance, o llame 1‑800‑442‑6003, y busque clínicas en 211 Maine. (maine.gov)
- Veteranas: el Maine Veterans’ Dental Network ofrece atención gratuita/reducida a quienes califican. Lea el anuncio 2025 en Oficina de la Gobernadora y llame al 207‑287‑6836. (www1.maine.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- MaineCare Covered Services, Member Resources, and Transportation from Maine DHHS. (maine.gov)
- Office for Family Independence and Applications & Forms for applying and case help. (www11.maine.gov)
- Maine CDC Oral Health Program and Oral Health Clinics directory for clinic listings and prevention. (maine.gov)
- University of New England Oral Health Center urgent clinic pages and fee information. (une.edu)
- Maine Veterans’ Dental Network and the Governor’s 2025 announcement for veteran dental access. (www1.maine.gov)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide is informational and not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules change and clinic capacity varies by day. Always confirm current eligibility, coverage, fees, and hours with the agency or clinic before you apply or travel. Call to confirm current availability before applying.
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- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
