Free Dental Care in NYC

Believe It, It's the "Tooth"

"Even if your teeth are in excellent condition, you can come in and have a sealant put on that wull help prevent decay in the future."

Few people realized that New York City has been offering their own micro-version of universal health care for its citizens, at least when it comes to the oral wellness of the city’s young. New York City has offered free dental care to any resident 21 years or younger, regardless of income or immigration status. The program has been in existence since 1913.

This is one of the best- kept secrets in all of New York City. The requirements for the program are simple: You must be 21 years of age or younger. No questions concerning income will be asked, nor will any attempts be made to determine immigration status. A visitor to one of the clinics, which are situated throughout the five boroughs, may have to prove their age, but only if they look like they may be older than 21.

The clinics provide a comprehension set of dental services including emergency care, examinations, sealants, filings, root canal procedures, extractions and orthodontic referrals. If an orthodontist is needed the program does have some orthodontists who will do the work at little or no charge. If an outside orthodontist is needed, the program will work with the patient’s family to secure Medicaid assistance if cost is issue. “At any rat, we are going to try and find the cheapest and best possible price,” assures Tinkelman.

There is the potential that clinics will be crowded, so it is best to make an appointment. If the patient is experiencing severe pain they should tell the person on the phone that it is an emergency, and every effort will be made to see them as soon as possible.

“Most people speak a little English, and that is all you will need to get by.”

The DOMHH currently operates Health Center dental clinics in Washington Heights, Fort Greene, Bushwick, Lower Manhattan and Corona. For more information, contact the office by calling 311.