Addressing Veterans’ Oral Health Needs

Veterans face oral health challenges that can affect their overall health, quality of life and financial well-being.

A Healthier Smile for Every Veteran

Our commitment to optimal oral health for all veterans.

More than 9 million veterans are eligible for medical care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), but 75% of those veterans are not eligible for dental coverage or care. The ADA is fighting to expand oral health care options for veterans.
Veteran at a dental office
Advocacy in Congress

The Dental Care for Veterans Act, H.R. 210, expands VA dental care eligibility to all veterans enrolled in the VA health care system.

See veterans care bill

Resources:

Government Accountability Office Report: Veterans Health Care: Information on Eligibility for and use of Dental Benefits

A 2026 report reviews VA dental benefits and how poor oral health can affect overall health and may be linked to serious conditions. The report shows an increase in veterans eligible for VA dental benefits occurred in younger veterans under age 50 and other data used for Congressional review of Veterans Health Administration expansion of dental benefits.

 

ADA News: 

Volunteers assemble 500 kits during Give Veterans A Smile Pack and Give Back (October 2026)

Dental Professionals give back in Washington, D.C. (October 2025) 


Are you a veteran in need of dental care?

Visit the ADA Foundation Give Veterans A Smile program.

Explore options
Veteran couple with dentist - GVAS