Dental Care & Community Resources
Our Role in Your Dental Care
HAVEN Free Clinic does not provide direct dental services. However, we believe oral health is a vital part of your overall wellbeing, and we don't want it to be a gap in your care.
Through our care coordination services, we can connect you, at no cost, with dental resources in our community. Whether you need a routine cleaning, a filling, or more urgent dental attention, our team will help identify options that are accessible and affordable for you.
Why Dental Care Matters
Oral health is about far more than your teeth. Untreated dental problems can have serious consequences for your overall health and quality of life:
Heart disease
Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Diabetes complications
Gum disease can make blood sugar harder to control, and uncontrolled diabetes in turn worsens oral health — a cycle that makes managing both conditions more difficult.
Mental health & quality of life
Dental pain, tooth loss, and concerns about appearance can affect confidence, social wellbeing, and mental health in ways that are often underestimated.
Nutrition & chronic disease
Difficulty chewing due to dental pain or missing teeth can limit diet and nutrition, compounding the management of conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
Dental care is an essential part of your health.
A Note on Wait Times
We want to be transparent with you: dental resources in our community are in high demand, and wait times can be significant. We know this is frustrating, especially when you are in pain or discomfort.
We encourage you to reach out to us as early as possible so we can begin the coordination process. If you are experiencing acute dental pain, please let your care team know — we will do our best to prioritize urgent situations.
You can also connect with Cornell Scott directly at (203) 503-3000.
What to Expect at Community Dental Providers
Most community dental clinics and safety-net dental providers operate on a sliding scale fee model. This means the cost of your care is adjusted based on your income, so you only pay what you can afford. For many patients, this results in significantly reduced or even no-cost services.
When we connect you with a community dental provider, we will help you understand:
- What documents to bring (such as proof of income)
- What services are typically covered or discounted
- What to expect at your first appointment