UNMC VETSmile Dental Clinic

Ensuring Veterans Receive the Dental Care They Deserve

The VETSmile Dental Clinic at the UNMC College of Dentistry addresses the urgent need for accessible dental services within the veteran community. In collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs’ VETSmile program, the College offers affordable or complimentary dental services to eligible veterans.

Veterans receive quality dental care from UNMC students and establish a dental home for ongoing care and preventative services. We honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans, ensuring they receive the dental care they deserve while simultaneously providing our students with important clinical experiences. 

UNMC VETSmile Clinic FAQs

• Who is eligible? 
  Eligible patients:
  • are veterans who are enrolled in the VA health care system but are not eligible for dental benefits;
  • are current patients of record at the Lincoln VA Clinic (prior to September 1, 2024);
  • receive a referral from their primary care provider at the Lincoln VA Clinic; and
  • do not have private dental insurance.
    
    
• What services are offered and do I have to pay for this care?
  Comprehensive dental care, restoration and treatment of oral disease are available for no out-of-pocket costs. Non-medically necessary services, such as cosmetic procedures, may be available at a reduced cost.
  
  
• When is the VETSmile Clinic open?
  The clinic is open most Friday afternoons.
  
  
• How do I receive a referral from my Lincoln VA Clinic primary care provider?
  You must make an appointment with the Lincoln VA Clinic to have an assessment completed by your primary care provider to determine if you qualify for a referral.
  
  
• Once I receive a referral from the Lincoln VA Clinic, when will my appointment at the VETSmile Clinic be?
  The UNMC College of Dentistry will call you to schedule your appointment.
  
  
• Can I call the UNMC College of Dentistry and make an appointment at the VETSmile Clinic BEFORE I get a referral?
  No, you must receive a referral from the Lincoln VA Clinic and then the UNMC College of Dentistry will call you to schedule your appointment.
  
  
• I'm NOT a current patient of record at the Lincoln VA Clinic. Am I eligible for the VETSmile Clinic?
  No, only current patients of record at the Lincoln VA Clinic (prior to September 1, 2024) who receive a referral are eligible for the VETSmile Clinic at this time. However, you can receive comprehensive dental care at the UNMC College of Dentistry outside of the VETSmile Clinic. As an educational institution, we offer significantly reduced fees compared to regional dental fees. To make an appointment, please call 402-472-1333.
  
  
• I'm a current UNMC College of Dentistry patient. Do I still need a referral from the Lincoln VA Clinic? 
  Yes, current UNMC patients need a referral from the Lincoln VA Clinic for the VETSmile Clinic. Please make an appointment with the Lincoln VA Clinic to have an assessment completed by your primary care provider to determine if you qualify for a referral. When you receive a referral, the UNMC College of Dentistry will call you to schedule your appointment.
  
  
• Can I get travel and mileage reimbursement from VA?
  No, travel and mileage reimbursement from the VA for appointments and treatment are not covered. More information.

• I DON'T qualify for the VETSmile Clinic. Are there any other options for me to receive dental care?
  You can receive comprehensive dental care at the UNMC College of Dentistry outside of the VETSmile Clinic. As an educational institution, we offer significantly reduced fees compared to regional dental fees. To make an appointment, please call 402-472-1333.