Mission statement

Honor American’s Veterans, particularly those who are facing homelessness, by facilitating improvements in access to oral health that contribute to their overall well being and to their success in VA sponsored homeless rehabilitation programs.

About the Homeless Veterans Dental Program

The Homeless Veterans Dental Program was established by the Veterans Administration in 1992. The program is sponsored by the VA Office of Dentistry and works in partnership with internal and external groups that serve the needs of homeless Veterans.

The provision of dental care has been shown to improve many aspects of health and well-being. VA research has shown that providing dental care positively impacts homeless program outcomes including completion of a homeless rehabilitation program, employment, financial stability and permanent housing status. Additional studies have shown that after dental care, Veterans who had experienced homelessness report significant improvement in perceived oral health, general health and overall self-esteem. This work supports the concept that dental care is an important aspect of overall homeless rehabilitation and should be included in the road to self-sufficiency and improved whole health.

Dental eligibility for Veterans who are in certain VA-sponsored rehabilitation programs is available through the VA, including:

• Grant and Per Diem
• Health Care for Homeless Veterans
• Domiciliary Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation
• Compensated Work Therapy/Transitional Residence

Dental Handbook 1130.01(1) (pages 9-10) outlines eligibility for Class IIb Veterans in detail. The Homeless Veterans Dental Program strives to advocate for Veterans and to assist them in their rehabilitation journey. Learn more about dental eligibility and the importance of oral health.

Contact VA for help