Dental care is one of the hardest things to afford without insurance, and many Hartford residents put off a painful tooth until it becomes an emergency. You do not have to. Community health centers and dental clinics in the area offer cleanings, fillings, extractions, and urgent care on a sliding scale based on what you can pay, and several accept HUSKY (Connecticut Medicaid).
This page lists the dental resources in our Hartford directory, with phone numbers and what to bring. If you are in pain right now, call ahead. Some clinics hold same-day emergency slots, and a few hospital clinics see walk-ins.
Who can get help
Most community dental clinics serve anyone, with fees set by household size and income (a "sliding scale"). Many accept HUSKY/Medicaid for both kids and adults. You do not need insurance, and several clinics see patients regardless of immigration status. Bring a photo ID and proof of income if you have it, but call first to ask what is actually required.
Dental clinics in Hartford
Charter Oak Health Center — Dental
Charter Oak Health Center
FQHC dental services for adults and children on a sliding-fee scale. Accepts HUSKY, Medicaid, Medicare, and most insurance. Bilingual (English/Spanish) staff.
Community Health Services — Dental
Community Health Services
Federally Qualified Health Center dental clinic in Hartford on a sliding-fee scale. Accepts Medicaid/HUSKY, Medicare, and uninsured patients. Cleanings, fillings, extractions, and preventive care for all ages.
UConn Health Dental Clinic
UConn Health
Low-cost dental care from supervised dental students and residents. General dentistry, oral surgery, specialty services. Located in Farmington, accessible to Hartford area patients.
How to get started
Find a clinic below and call ahead
Ask whether they are taking new patients, what the visit will cost, and whether they have any same-day or emergency openings if you are in pain.
Ask about the sliding scale and HUSKY
If you have HUSKY/Medicaid, confirm they accept it. If you do not, ask how the sliding-scale fee is calculated so you know roughly what to expect.
Bring ID and proof of income if you can
A photo ID and a recent pay stub or benefits letter help set your fee, but a missing document should not stop you from calling. Ask what they accept.
Common questions
Where can I get free dental care in Hartford?
Community health centers (FQHCs) and hospital dental clinics in Hartford offer free or sliding-scale dental care. The clinics listed on this page are the verified options in our directory. Call ahead to confirm they are accepting patients and what the visit will cost.
Can I get dental care without insurance?
Yes. Sliding-scale clinics set your fee based on income, so you can be seen with no insurance. Many also accept HUSKY/Medicaid if you have it.
I have a dental emergency. What do I do?
Call the clinics below and ask specifically about same-day or emergency openings. If you cannot reach anyone and the pain is severe or you have facial swelling or fever, go to a hospital emergency room or call 211 for the nearest option.
Not sure where to start, or do not see what you need?