Connecticut State Dental Association Spearheads New Veterans Dental Care Access Program

The Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA) will be at the upcoming Salute to Smiles free dental clinic on Saturday, September 26, enrolling eligible veterans into a new statewide initiative: the Veterans Dental Care Access Program.

While the Salute to Smiles event offers immediate, no-cost services - including dental cleanings, oral health evaluations, and X-rays provided by the Connecticut Oral Health Initiative (COHI), the University of Bridgeport’s Fones School of Dental Hygiene, and the Connecticut Foundation for Dental Outreach (CFDO) - CSDA is taking the opportunity to launch pre-enrollment for long-term, sustained oral healthcare.

Through the Veterans Dental Care Access Program, eligible Connecticut veterans can receive up to $3,000 per calendar year in covered dental care to support their ongoing oral health and overall nutrition. CSDA is coordinating treatment for veterans who already have a dentist and helping those without a dentist find care in their home community. Official treatment under the new initiative begins on January 1, 2027, but pre-enrollment is open now to ensure veterans secure their full benefits for the 2027 calendar year.

Program Eligibility
To qualify for up to $3,000 in annual coverage under the Veterans Dental Care Access Program, individuals must meet the following criteria:
• Be a Connecticut veteran.
• Have a household income at or below 400% of the federal poverty level.
• Not currently receive dental care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Hold a service-connected disability rating below 100%.

How to Register & Get Assistance
For the $3,000 Veterans Dental Care Access Program (2027): Veterans can pre-enroll today. For assistance or questions regarding enrollment, contact the Connecticut State Dental Association at (860) 378-1800 or via email at tjames@csda.com.

If you are a veteran but do not meet the qualifications, there are other assistance programs; please call CSDA so we can assist with your individual situation.

About the Connecticut State Dental Association
The Connecticut State Dental Association is the trusted leader and voice for oral health in Connecticut. Representing more than 2,200 licensed dentists, CSDA is committed to advancing the profession and improving access to high-quality oral health care for all residents.