Hundreds of thousands of Virginians are in desperate need of dental care but have nowhere to turn.  Many go without treatment, suffering chronic pain, risking systemic infections and tooth loss, and trying to cope with problems swallowing or talking.

Finding dental care is even harder if you live in one of the many Virginia communities with no "safety net" providers -- dentists who provide care for low  income and uninsured patients. 

• In 62 Virginia localities there are no dental safety net providers
• Of the 73 communities that do offer care, in many cases it's only available part-time.

If you are uninsured and need help finding a dentist

While VHCF doesn't provide dental care directly to patients, we can help you identify places to turn.   Go to Looking for a Safety Net Dentist?

How VHCF is helping

VHCF is committed to helping Virginians receive the dental care they need.

	VHCF dental grants totaling nearly $6 million have helped establish or expand 36 dental safety net sites statewide.
	VHCF's partnership with Patterson Dental-Richmond enables providers within the dental safety net to receive a substantial discount on dental equipment and supplies, maintenance and repair and dental practice management software.
	The VCHF directory of dental safety net providers is the only comprehensive resource available to help Virginians find local dental safety net providers.
	VHCF's Tooth Talk gives dental providers an opportunity to share best practices and brainstorm about effective ways to grow and strengthen the dental safety net in Virginia.
	VHCF's Dental Opportunities Coordinator (funded by a generous grant from Delta Dental of Virginia) helps Virginia's dental safety net providers address some of the challenges and concerns related to providing dental care to at risk Virginians.
	VHCF, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services, the Virginia Dental Association and Virginia Oral Health Coalition, has effected significant policy change to improve access to dental care for children in Virginia.