Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in Vermont
Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in Vermont
Last updated: September 2025
This guide gives you clear steps, real phone numbers, and direct links to get dental care in Vermont now. You’ll find urgent options, how to use Medicaid and Dr. Dynasaur, where to get low‑cost or free care, and what to do if your application is denied. Every section ends with a Plan B.
If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take
- Call to book the fastest urgent slot at an FQHC dental clinic serving your county (they accept Medicaid and have sliding fees): start with Community Health Centers – Dental at 1-802-652-1050, Northern Counties Dental at 1-802-472-2260, or NOTCH Dental – Richford/Swanton at 1-802-255-5520. If you have intense pain or swelling, say “urgent.” Use the Vermont Dept. of Health clinic list to find your closest site. (chcb.org)
- Book a ride if transportation is the barrier: call Vermont Public Transportation Association (Medicaid rides) at 1-833-387-7200 and ask for a non‑emergency medical trip to your dental appointment. Keep your appointment letter or text handy when you call. Learn the rules on the DVHA NEMT page. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- If you can’t get through or you’re uninsured, call a free clinic that can triage extractions and urgent care: People’s Health & Wellness Clinic – Barre 1-802-479-1229, Red Logan Dental – White River Jct. 1-802-295-7573, or Rutland County Health Partners – Dental 1-802-774-1082. Expect screening and eligibility checks—ask for the next available “urgent” spot. (phwcvt.org)
Quick Help Box – Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Green Mountain Care (Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur) Member Services: 1-800-250-8427. Use the DVHA member page and the Medicaid dentist Provider Lookup. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Vermont Health Connect (marketplace and enrollment help): 1-855-899-9600, free language help (TTY 711). See Contact VHC and Dental plans for adult options. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
- Office of the Health Care Advocate (free help with Medicaid coverage, denials, billing): 1-800-917-7787 and vtlawhelp.org/health. (vtlawhelp.org)
- Vermont 2‑1‑1 (referrals to clinics, events, vouchers): dial 2‑1‑1 or 1-866-652-4636, see Vermont 2‑1‑1 and the AHS Help & Resources page. (women.vermont.gov)
- Dental rides for Medicaid members: call VPTA 1-833-387-7200 and review NEMT rules before your trip. (vpta.net)
Who qualifies and what’s covered in Vermont right now
Vermont Medicaid covers adult dental care, with an annual cap, and gives full dental coverage to children and pregnant people. For many single moms, this is the fastest way to get comprehensive care paid for.
- Core Vermont Medicaid dental rules: Adults 21+ get up to 1,500percalendaryearfordiagnostic,restorativeandendodonticcare;preventivecleaningsandfluorideuptotwiceperyeardonotcountagainstthecap;1,500 per calendar year for diagnostic, restorative and endodontic care; preventive cleanings and fluoride up to twice per year do not count against the cap; 3 copay per visit (preventive has no copay). Check details on the DVHA Medicaid page and the statute 33 V.S.A. §1992. The 2023 update also raised dental reimbursement rates to support access. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Dr. Dynasaur (kids and pregnancy): Children under 19 and pregnant people have full dental coverage with no dollar cap; Vermont gives 12 months of continuous coverage after pregnancy. See Dr. Dynasaur and the VDH Oral Health reminders. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- If you buy adult dental: You can purchase a stand‑alone adult plan from Northeast Delta Dental through Vermont Health Connect during open enrollment or a special enrollment period. Use insurer “find a dentist” tools before you buy. (nedelta.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you hit the annual cap or can’t find a Medicaid dentist taking new patients, ask an FQHC about sliding‑fee cash rates, contact the Health Care Advocate for help with access issues, and check for pop‑up events like Give Kids A Smile or RAM clinics posted by Greater Bennington Community Services. (vtlawhelp.org)
Coverage snapshot (what’s paid for and who to call)
| Program | Who it helps | What’s covered | Costs | Key contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont Medicaid (Green Mountain Care) | Low‑income adults | Exams, X‑rays, fillings, root canals, extractions, some crowns; two preventive visits don’t count toward cap | 1,500/yearcapforadults;1,500/year cap for adults; 3 copay/visit; preventive no copay | Member Services 1-800-250-8427; DVHA Medicaid; Provider Lookup (dvha.vermont.gov) |
| Dr. Dynasaur | Children <19 and pregnant people | Full dental (no cap) incl. preventive and restorative | $0–low cost depending on income | Dr. Dynasaur; Insure Kids Now dentist finder; VHC 1-855-899-9600 (dvha.vermont.gov) |
| Stand‑alone adult dental | Adults not on Medicaid | Plan benefits vary by tier | Monthly premium; copays; coinsurance | VHC Adult Dental Plans; Northeast Delta Dental; BCBSVT dental via CBA Blue search (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov) |
| Transportation to dental | Medicaid members | Rides to covered appointments | No cost if pre‑approved | VPTA NEMT 1-833-387-7200; VPTA (dvha.vermont.gov) |
How to apply for Medicaid or Dr. Dynasaur fast
Start your application immediately so your coverage is in place when the clinic calls you back.
- Apply online or by phone: Use Vermont Health Connect or call 1-855-899-9600 (TTY 711) for free interpreter help. Ask about Dr. Dynasaur for kids and pregnancy and Medicaid for you. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
- Have these ready: ID; proof of Vermont address; the last 30 days of income; pregnancy proof (if pregnant); children’s birthdates and SSNs if available; and any current insurance info. Use the VHC eligibility tables and ask for an assister near you. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
- Set up dental care as soon as you’re approved: Use the Medicaid Provider Lookup (search “General Dentistry”), the FQHC list from VDH, or Insure Kids Now for pediatric dentists. (search.vermont211.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If the online portal is down or your case gets stuck, call the Health Care Advocate at 1-800-917-7787, or the Green Mountain Care Customer Support Center at 1-800-250-8427. You can also appeal or request a fair hearing using DVHA’s appeals page. (vtlawhelp.org)
How to get an emergency dental appointment in Vermont today
If you have swelling, fever, or severe pain, say “urgent dental” and ask for the first available slot.
- Call high‑volume access points first: Community Health Centers – Dental 1-802-652-1050 (Burlington/South End/Islands/Winooski), UVM Medical Center Dental & Oral Health 1-802-847-1777, and Northern Counties Dental Center 1-802-472-2260. Ask to be added to a cancellation list. (chcb.org)
- Use a free clinic when you’re uninsured: People’s Health & Wellness – Barre handles cleanings and extraction clinics; Red Logan Dental – White River Junction posts intake status online; Rutland County Health Partners – Dental triages adults with urgent need. (phwcvt.org)
- For kids at school: Ask if your district participates in the 802 Smiles Network—Tier 4 and 5 schools can deliver on‑site cleanings, sealants, and sometimes restorative care. (healthvermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Check for special events such as Give Kids A Smile in February and summer Remote Area Medical (RAM) pop‑ups in Bennington—first‑come, first‑served and free. Call Vermont 2‑1‑1 to see what’s scheduled near you this month. (adanews.ada.org)
Where to get care at low or no cost
Use clinics that accept Medicaid and offer sliding‑fee discounts. They publish direct numbers, and many have patient support staff who can help with paperwork.
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): Start with the VDH dental clinic list, which includes CHC – Dental 1-802-652-1050, Lamoille Health Partners – Dental 1-802-888-7585, and NOTCH Dental 1-802-255-5520. All accept Medicaid and offer sliding fee scales. (healthvermont.gov)
- University and residency clinics: Vermont State University Dental Hygiene Clinic in Williston posts current student‑clinic fees (e.g., 40hygiene,40 hygiene, 25–$45 X‑rays; longer visits, closed summers); UVM Medical Center Dental & Oral Health runs a General Practice Residency serving complex and urgent cases. (vermontstate.edu)
- Nonprofits and free clinics: People’s Health & Wellness Clinic in Barre, Red Logan Dental Clinic in White River Junction (service area and intake windows apply), and Rutland County Health Partners offer free or very low‑cost care for uninsured adults. Call to confirm availability. (phwcvt.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your county is “waitlist only,” ask the clinic to book the first available exam and put you on the cancellation list. Then call Vermont 2‑1‑1 for faith‑based or civic groups offering one‑day dental events, and check with Northeast Delta Dental’s network for dentists offering payment plans. (women.vermont.gov)
Clinic directory by region (keep this handy)
| Region | Main options | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington/Chittenden & Islands | CHC – Dental; UVM Dental & Oral Health; CHC Contact | 1-802-652-1050; 1-802-847-1777; 1-802-864-6309 | Medicaid, sliding fee; urgent slots vary; call early. (chcb.org) |
| Northeast Kingdom (Caledonia/Essex/Orleans) | Northern Counties Dental Center – Hardwick; Island Pond Health & Dental | 1-802-472-2260; 1-802-723-4300 | Sliding fee and school partnerships; ask about 802 Smiles. (nchcvt.org) |
| Franklin/Grand Isle | NOTCH – Richford Dental; NOTCH – Swanton Dental | 1-802-255-5520; 1-802-868-2454 | Medicaid accepted; school‑based dental in FNESU. (notchvt.org) |
| Lamoille | Lamoille Health Partners – Family Dentistry | 1-802-888-7585 | High demand; months‑long wait for adults with Medicaid reported—ask for cancellations. (vtdigger.org) |
| Rutland | Community Health Centers of the Rutland Region – Dental; Rutland County Health Partners – Dental | 1-802-774-5050; 1-802-774-1082 | CHCRR is an FQHC; RCHP triages uninsured urgent needs. (search.vermont211.org) |
| Upper Valley (Windsor/Orange) | Red Logan Dental Clinic | 1-802-295-7573 | Free clinic; service area limits; check intake status online. (goodneighborhealthclinic.org) |
| Addison | CHC South End Dental for regional urgent care; Open Door Clinic for uninsured | 1-802-652-1050; 1-802-388-0137 | Call ODC to ask about dental access days or referrals. (search.vermont211.org) |
| Washington | People’s Health & Wellness Clinic | 1-802-479-1229 | Free care for uninsured; call for intake and dental days. (phwcvt.org) |
| Bennington | Battenkill Valley Health Center – Dental; RAM Bennington event | 1-802-375-6566 (opt. 7); event page | BVHC is FQHC; watch for annual RAM pop‑up free clinic. (battenkillvalleyhealthcenter.org) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask for “dental assistance” plus your town. They’ll read you the closest clinics with current hours and intake rules. (women.vermont.gov)
Transportation, time off, and getting there
- Set up your ride early: Medicaid rides are booked through VPTA at 1-833-387-7200; read the NEMT rules so you know what to bring and when to call. Some regions use local partners like Tri‑Valley Transit for scheduling and hardship mileage reimbursements. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Ask for a letter for work: FQHCs and hospital clinics will give appointment letters; keep them for your employer and to rebook rides. Use clinic patient portals when offered—Northern Counties Dental has a new text‑based reminder system. (nchcvt.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If rides fall through, call VPTA back and ask about a “personal choice driver” or hardship mileage as listed on the DVHA NEMT forms page. For non‑Medicaid seniors, call your Area Agency on Aging—Southwestern VT COA HelpLine 1-800-642-5119—via SVCOA. (dvha.vermont.gov)
Lower your dental bill this month (practical moves)
- Use student clinics for preventive work: The Vermont State University Dental Hygiene Clinic posts current fees (e.g., 40comprehensivehygiene,40 comprehensive hygiene, 25–45X‑rays,45 X‑rays, 5 silver diamine fluoride per tooth). Bring prior X‑rays to cut costs and time. (vermontstate.edu)
- Ask about simple, science‑backed treatments: Ask your dentist about silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for stopping decay in baby teeth or sensitive spots; many FQHCs and student clinics offer it. See SDF and sealant info linked from the 802 Smiles page and the VDH family resources. (healthvermont.gov)
- Shop the network before you buy a plan: If you’re looking at adult dental through VHC, search dentists in Northeast Delta Dental and BCBSVT/CBA Blue Dental first so you’re not stuck out‑of‑network. (nedelta.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you still can’t afford care, ask the clinic’s patient support team about charity funds or foundation discounts and call Vermont 2‑1‑1 to search “dental assistance” for your county. (women.vermont.gov)
Vermont‑specific reality check
- Vermont increased the adult Medicaid dental cap to $1,500 and raised provider rates to improve access. Clinics report ongoing demand and waitlists—Lamoille County’s FQHC noted months‑long waits for adults with Medicaid. Plan ahead and join cancellation lists. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Pregnant people and kids on Dr. Dynasaur have no dental dollar cap; use that benefit for preventive and needed restorative care now and do not delay treatment. (healthvermont.gov)
- Expect forms and prior authorization for some procedures. Keep copies and ask your clinic to submit pre‑approvals early. Use HCA if approvals lag or bills look wrong. (vtlawhelp.org)
Application checklist (print or screenshot this)
- Photo ID, Social Security number (if available), and proof of Vermont address; see Vermont Health Connect for acceptable documents.
- Last 30 days of income (paystubs, a letter from employer, or benefits statement) for you and household; use VHC eligibility info.
- Pregnancy proof or due date letter (if pregnant) to qualify under Dr. Dynasaur rules.
- List of medications and any current dental treatment plan; bring to your first visit—ask the clinic to upload. Use the Medicaid Provider Lookup to find a dentist.
- Transportation plan—call VPTA 1-833-387-7200 at least a few days before your appointment; check NEMT rules.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to apply until you have a dentist: Apply for Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur or shop VHC dental plans now; some clinics require active coverage for scheduling. If denied or delayed, call the Health Care Advocate. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Not using the provider search: Always check the Medicaid Provider Lookup or Insure Kids Now dentist finder to avoid out‑of‑network bills. Ask clinics whether they accept your plan before care. (search.vermont211.org)
- Missing ride windows: Medicaid rides need advance booking with VPTA; confirm pickup times the day before and save texts. Review NEMT forms and rules. (vpta.net)
If your application gets denied (troubleshooting)
- Read the denial: Pull the notice from your VHC online account or ask for it by mail. Denials cite the rule or missing proof. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
- Fix and appeal: You can ask for an internal appeal or a fair hearing; start with DVHA Appeals & Fair Hearings or call 1-800-250-8427. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Get free help: Call the Office of the Health Care Advocate at 1-800-917-7787—they help with denials, billing, and coverage. If the issue is network access, the Dept. of Financial Regulation can help with commercial plans. (vtlawhelp.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Reapply after fixing documents, ask a local assister via VHC, and schedule at a sliding‑fee clinic while the appeal runs. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
Special programs and one‑time events
- School‑based care (802 Smiles): Many schools offer on‑site screenings, SDF, sealants, and sometimes restorative care. Ask your nurse if your school is in the 802 Smiles Network and sign the consent. (healthvermont.gov)
- Give Kids A Smile (February, statewide events): Free dental days for children. See the ADA GKAS page and call 1‑844‑490‑GKAS to locate Vermont events. (adafoundation.org)
- Remote Area Medical (RAM) Bennington: Annual free clinic with dental, vision, and medical—first come, first served. Watch GBCS RAM updates and local news. (gbicsbennington.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county’s United Way 2‑1‑1 about church‑ or foundation‑funded one‑day dental events and small emergency funds. (women.vermont.gov)
Veterans, college clinics, and future capacity
- Veterans’ dental: Eligibility depends on VA class (e.g., Class IV for 100% service‑connected). Review VA Dental Care and consider discounted VADIP dental insurance if you’re not eligible for VA care. (va.gov)
- Training clinics today: The VTSU Dental Hygiene Clinic offers low‑fee hygiene care during the academic year; the UVM Medical Center Dental & Oral Health program treats urgent and complex cases. (vermontstate.edu)
- Future expansion: A new University of Detroit Mercy–Vermont dental education clinic is planned in Chittenden County with Medicaid acceptance and reduced rates; clinical years are slated to begin in Vermont in 2027. Follow updates via VSDS and ADA News. (udmercy.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Until new capacity opens, book preventive care at student clinics, use sliding‑fee FQHCs, and ask your dentist about staged treatment plans to spread out costs.
Diverse communities: targeted help and tips
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask clinics for chosen‑name use and gender‑affirming intake. Community Health Centers offer navigators for Vermont Health Connect, and the Office of the Health Care Advocate can help resolve coverage barriers. Request large‑print forms or TTY via 711 if needed. (chcb.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Use Medicaid rides through VPTA, and ask schools about 802 Smiles fast‑track consent. For special‑needs dentistry or hospital dentistry, call UVM Dental & Oral Health to discuss accommodations. (vpta.net)
- Veteran single mothers: Check VA dental eligibility and consider VADIP if not eligible for direct VA dental care. Local FQHCs also accept TriCare or cash sliding fees. Use the VDH clinic list to book. (va.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: Get language help at Vermont Health Connect (free interpreters, TTY 711) and community navigation through AALV and USCRI Vermont. Ask clinics for translated forms; Medicaid and Dr. Dynasaur cover dental if you qualify. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
- Tribal members and Native families: Vermont has state‑recognized Abenaki tribes; there are no IHS dental clinics in Vermont, but some care may be covered through Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) if you are IHS‑eligible. For state advocacy and referrals, contact the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs. AI/AN families can enroll in VHC AI/AN plans year‑round. (ihs.gov)
- Rural single moms: Ask about mobile or school‑based care via 802 Smiles, book rides through VPTA, and use the VDH FQHC list to find the closest dental site. (healthvermont.gov)
- Single fathers and caregivers: All programs above are open regardless of gender. Use Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur, VHC dental plans, and HCA HelpLine if you hit a coverage issue. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Language access: Tell customer service you need an interpreter—VHC provides free language help and TTY 711. FQHCs like CHC can also help with translation and enrollment. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask for organizations offering interpreters, disability accommodations, or Native/immigrant navigation in your county. (women.vermont.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Need | First call | Backup | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Find a Medicaid dentist | Provider Lookup | VDH clinic list | Search “General Dentistry,” filter by distance. (search.vermont211.org) |
| Enroll in coverage | Vermont Health Connect 1-855-899-9600 | HCA HelpLine 1-800-917-7787 | Ask for Dr. Dynasaur for kids/pregnancy. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov) |
| Urgent dental visit | CHC Dental 1-802-652-1050 | UVM Dental 1-802-847-1777 | Say “urgent pain/swelling.” (chcb.org) |
| Rides to dentist | VPTA NEMT 1-833-387-7200 | Local partner listed on VPTA | Book early; confirm day prior. (dvha.vermont.gov) |
| Appeal a denial | DVHA Appeals | HCA HelpLine | Keep all letters and dates. (dvha.vermont.gov) |
County‑specific notes (where rules or access differ)
- Lamoille County: Lamoille Health Partners – Dental serves one of the few adult Medicaid dental sites; long waitlists have been reported—join cancellation lists and keep your phone nearby. Consider CHC Dental for urgent care if you can travel, and book VPTA rides. (vtdigger.org)
- Upper Valley (Windsor/Orange): Red Logan Dental is free but periodically pauses new applications; check the website before you go. Use UVM Dental & Oral Health for complex needs. (goodneighborhealthclinic.org)
- Franklin/Grand Isle: NOTCH Dental runs clinics in Richford and Swanton with school‑based programs; call directly for the next opening. (notchvt.org)
- Bennington: Battenkill Valley Health Center – Dental books FQHC dental; watch RAM Bennington for a free two‑day clinic in August. (battenkillvalleyhealthcenter.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask for dental providers accepting Medicaid in nearby counties and who can see you faster. (women.vermont.gov)
How to read your benefits (key rules in plain English)
- Adult dental cap: Your dental work other than preventive is covered up to $1,500 per calendar year under Vermont Medicaid; preventive cleanings/fluoride do not use the cap. If you have a medical condition that needs extra dental care, your dentist can request more with documentation per 33 V.S.A. §1992. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Copays: Adults pay $3 per dental visit; preventive visits have no copay. See the DVHA copay section. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Pregnancy and kids: No dental dollar cap during pregnancy and for children under Dr. Dynasaur—use it for needed care now. Check Dr. Dynasaur and VDH family oral health. (dvha.vermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a front desk says your benefit is different, ask them to check the current DVHA dental rules and then call the HCA HelpLine to resolve conflicting information. (dvha.vermont.gov)
Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups
- Vermont’s Free & Referral Clinics network: Use VFRC – Find a Clinic to reach clinics like People’s Health & Wellness (Barre), Red Logan Dental (WRJ), and Rutland County Health Partners (Rutland). They coordinate volunteers and donated supplies. (vtfreeclinics.org)
- Immigrant and refugee help: AALV provides health navigation and interpreters; USCRI Vermont assists refugee families with health insurance and services. Pair this with Vermont Health Connect language access. (aalv-vt.org)
- Community events and volunteers: Watch for Give Kids A Smile events and the RAM Bennington clinic. Ask Vermont 2‑1‑1 about church‑based emergency funds in your county. (adafoundation.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your town clerk or local faith coalition and ask if a “benevolence fund” exists for urgent dental bills, then call 2‑1‑1 for other options. (women.vermont.gov)
FAQs (Vermont‑specific)
- How fast can I get an urgent dental appointment?
Most clinics reserve a few urgent slots daily but they fill early. Call CHC Dental 1-802-652-1050, UVM Dental 1-802-847-1777, or your nearest FQHC from the VDH clinic list and ask for cancellations. Book a ride via VPTA if needed. (chcb.org) - What does Vermont Medicaid cover for adults?
1,500peryearformostdentalwork,plustwopreventivevisitsthatdon’tcounttowardthecap;1,500 per year for most dental work, plus two preventive visits that don’t count toward the cap; 3 copay per visit (no copay for preventive). See DVHA Medicaid and 33 V.S.A. §1992. (dvha.vermont.gov) - My child needs braces—any help?
Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur may cover orthodontics when medically necessary. You can also check Smiles Change Lives and search pediatric orthodontists via Insure Kids Now. (healthvermont.gov) - I don’t drive. How do I get to the dentist?
If you have Medicaid, call VPTA 1-833-387-7200 for a ride. If not, ask your clinic about local transit or volunteer drivers listed on VPTA. (dvha.vermont.gov) - Can I get free care if I’m uninsured?
Yes, at clinics like People’s Health & Wellness, Red Logan Dental, and Rutland County Health Partners if you meet their criteria. Use VFRC’s map. (phwcvt.org) - Where can I find dentists who take my plan?
Use Medicaid Provider Lookup, Insure Kids Now for kids, and carrier tools like Northeast Delta Dental or CBA Blue Dental. (search.vermont211.org) - What if my dentist says I’m out of benefits but I’m pregnant?
Pregnant people on Dr. Dynasaur have no dental cap. Ask the office to check Dr. Dynasaur and VDH reminders; call the HCA HelpLine if needed. (dvha.vermont.gov) - Can veterans get dental through the VA?
Some can based on VA class; if not, consider VADIP for discounted dental insurance. See VA Dental Care. (va.gov) - Any upcoming changes that might add capacity?
A UDM–Vermont dental education clinic is planned to open clinical training in 2027 and will accept Medicaid, improving access in Chittenden County. Watch VSDS updates. (udmercy.edu) - Who can help if I think a decision is wrong or there’s no in‑network provider?
Call the HCA HelpLine; you can also file an appeal via DVHA Appeals. If you have commercial coverage, the Department of Financial Regulation can help with network adequacy. (vtlawhelp.org)
“Reality check” notes (funding, delays, and back‑ups)
- Waitlists happen: Lamoille County reported months‑long waits for adult Medicaid slots—join cancellation lists and widen your search to nearby counties. Book preventive care now so you’re established. (vtdigger.org)
- Funding shifts: Free clinics may pause new intakes (e.g., Red Logan Dental); check websites the week you plan to call. (goodneighborhealthclinic.org)
- Verification takes time: Online applications can move faster, but keep copies of all documents and dates; use HCA if a case stalls. (vtlawhelp.org)
Plan‑by‑plan steps (scan‑friendly)
- Call the nearest FQHC from the VDH list and ask for the next urgent slot and a cancellation list.
- Apply for Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur or shop VHC dental plans; request interpreter help if needed via 1‑855‑899‑9600.
- Book a ride through VPTA NEMT 1‑833‑387‑7200; confirm the day before.
- Keep every letter and EOB; if denied, call the HCA HelpLine and start an appeal.
Tables you can screenshot
- Eligibility quick‑look
| Situation | What to apply for | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| Income‑eligible adult | Medicaid | VHC 1‑855‑899‑9600 (dvha.vermont.gov) |
| Pregnant or postpartum (within 12 months) | Dr. Dynasaur | VHC 1‑855‑899‑9600 (dvha.vermont.gov) |
| Child under 19 | Dr. Dynasaur | Insure Kids Now (insurekidsnow.gov) |
| Not Medicaid‑eligible adult | VHC adult dental plan | Northeast Delta Dental (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov) |
- Key contacts
| Need | Who to call | Number |
|---|---|---|
| Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur info | Green Mountain Care | 1‑800‑250‑8427 (dvha.vermont.gov) |
| Enrollment help (language access) | Vermont Health Connect | 1‑855‑899‑9600 (TTY 711) (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov) |
| Appeals and fair hearings | DVHA Appeals | 1‑800‑250‑8427 (dvha.vermont.gov) |
| Free help with denials/bills | HCA HelpLine | 1‑800‑917‑7787 (vtlawhelp.org) |
| Rides to dental appointments | VPTA NEMT | 1‑833‑387‑7200 (dvha.vermont.gov) |
- Main Vermont dental access points
| Area | Clinic | Number |
|---|---|---|
| Burlington & Islands | CHC – Dental | 1‑802‑652‑1050 (chcb.org) |
| Statewide urgent/complex | UVM Dental & Oral Health | 1‑802‑847‑1777 (uvmhealth.org) |
| Northeast Kingdom | Northern Counties Dental | 1‑802‑472‑2260 (nchcvt.org) |
| Franklin/Grand Isle | NOTCH – Dental | 1‑802‑255‑5520 (notchvt.org) |
| Washington County | People’s H&W Clinic | 1‑802‑479‑1229 (phwcvt.org) |
| Upper Valley | Red Logan Dental | 1‑802‑295‑7573 (goodneighborhealthclinic.org) |
| Rutland County | CHCRR Dental | 1‑802‑774‑5050 (search.vermont211.org) |
- Low‑fee preventive care options
| Site | Typical services | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| VTSU Dental Hygiene Clinic | Cleaning, X‑rays, sealants, SDF | Modest fees; longer visits; closed summers. (vermontstate.edu) |
| CHC Dental | Cleanings, fillings, extractions, dentures | Sliding fee; multiple sites. (chcb.org) |
| NOTCH Dental | Full family dentistry | Sliding fee; two dental sites. (notchvt.org) |
- Appeals and complaints
| Issue | Where to start |
|---|---|
| Medicaid denial or billing | DVHA Appeals; HCA HelpLine 1-800-917-7787 (dvha.vermont.gov) |
| Provider availability (commercial plans) | Dept. of Financial Regulation consumer services 1‑833‑337‑4685 (dfr.vermont.gov) |
What to do if none of the above works
- Call Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask for “dental voucher,” “urgent dental extraction,” or “free dental event” in your county; ask them to search adjacent counties.
- Ask your primary care office or pediatrician for a dental referral note; some clinics reserve slots for medical referrals, and it helps with VPTA NEMT approvals. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- For severe infection, go to the emergency department. Ask them to coordinate follow‑up with UVM Dental & Oral Health or your nearest FQHC dental clinic the next business day. (uvmhealth.org)
Español — Resumen rápido (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)
- Para cobertura dental pública, solicite Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur por Vermont Health Connect 1‑855‑899‑9600 (intérpretes gratis). Los niños y personas embarazadas bajo Dr. Dynasaur no tienen límite anual. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Para citas dentales, llame a Community Health Centers – Dental 1‑802‑652‑1050, Northern Counties Dental 1‑802‑472‑2260, o NOTCH Dental 1‑802‑255‑5520. Diga “urgente.” (chcb.org)
- Para transporte (Medicaid), llame a VPTA 1‑833‑387‑7200. Para ayuda legal con denegaciones, llame a HCA HelpLine 1‑800‑917‑7787. (dvha.vermont.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA) – Medicaid, Appeals, and NEMT. (dvha.vermont.gov)
- Vermont Department of Health – Oral Health and 802 Smiles Network. (healthvermont.gov)
- Vermont Health Connect and Dental plans. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
- Office of the Health Care Advocate – Vermont Legal Aid. (vtlawhelp.org)
- FQHC and clinic sources: CHC Dental, Northern Counties Dental, NOTCH Dental, People’s Health & Wellness Clinic, Red Logan Dental Clinic. (chcb.org)
- Training clinics and programs: VTSU Dental Hygiene Clinic, UVM Dental & Oral Health, and UDM–Vermont dental education initiative. (vermontstate.edu)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. 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 information is for general guidance in Vermont as of September 2025. Program rules, clinic hours, and funding change. Always confirm current eligibility, coverage, and appointment availability with the agency or clinic. When in doubt, call the numbers in this guide or contact the Office of the Health Care Advocate for free, unbiased help. (vtlawhelp.org)
Need help choosing where to start? Try calling your county’s FQHC dental clinic, book a Medicaid ride if you need one, and keep the HCA number handy for any bumps.
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