Medicare doesn't cover dental care for kidney patients

[jo]

Hi,

It looks like Medicare doesn't cover dental care which is required before my mom is put on the transplant list. Since Medicare doesn't cover dental care, what are other options? The transplant clinic sent us a list of cheap, free student dental clinics, but I am scared to take my mom to one of those clinics. Can someone guide us on how to get the dental evaluation done? Thanks.

[PrimeTimer]

I know nothing about the transplant process but I can tell you that (other than long waiting lists for appts) having work done at a dental school is not all bad. They usually require a fully licensed dentist to attend and/or perform procedures and they also tend to be more strict with their "staff" aka students than a regular dental clinic is. How do I know this? Many moons ago I was a student myself (certified dental assistant). When I got out into the real world, I was shocked at how lax dentists and clinics are. 

[jeannea]

The lack of dental and vision insurance is tough for all of us on Medicare. I buy my Medicare Supplemental insurance (Part C) from Blue Cross. They do sell a separate dental/vision policy but I didn't think the coverage was good. Beyond dental students, you can do a search for dental care for low income residents in your county. I found a clinic near me. You have to fill out forms on your income. I haven't used it yet but need to soon. They use dentists, not students. If your search doesn't work, you could also call your county's HHS dept for info. Good luck.

[jo]

Thanks both of you.

[PrimeTimer]

Another option you might want to check out is (I think it's called) "CARE CREDIT". It's like a credit card except that it can only be used for (I think) dental and vision services. Might want to google it or ask a dentist office about that. I would think that a person needing to go on the waiting list for a transplant would receive priority attention when it comes to needing evaluations from doctors and dentists. I'm sure you don't need to be told this but wherever you end up taking your mother, don't hesitate about speaking up and telling them exactly why she needs a dental exam and pronto! Some people don't want to be treated any differently or any more special than anyone else but you're not asking for "special" treatment, let them know her life is depending on this. Good luck!   

[Simon Dog]

If someone can't afford the dentist, there is a good chance they will not be able to afford the near usurious (14.90%) rate Care Credit charges.

[PrimeTimer]

If someone can't afford the dentist, there is a good chance they will not be able to afford the near usurious (14.90%) rate Care Credit charges.

Good point. 

[thegrammalady]

Check with the unit Social Worker there are a couple of programs that handle dialysis gentle work.

[tigtink]

Check out dentallifeline.org. They have a program called Donated Dental Services. Each state has its own coordinators. My roommate works for the program in Michigan. They handle transplant patients all the time. If you qualify they set you up with dentists and labs that donate services. It is a great program.