The Dental Health Foundation serves low income individuals, including those from single parent homes, seniors living entirely on social security, immigrants and students. The Foundation serves East Palo Alto, East Menlo Park, Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Los Altos and Mountain View. Applicants are screened by volunteer community service organizations. Those who qualify are referred to private dental offices. In addition, youths through age 18 and seniors receive preventive education and comprehensive treatment.
All age groups are eligible for emergency care to relieve pain and infection.
The Foundation Board of Directors establishes the treatment guidelines and limitations. Volunteer dentists review all requested services to ensure that Foundation guidelines are followed. Patients are required to pay a small fee for services and are given mainstream care in a private setting. Participating dentists accept fees much lower than their customary charges. Adults pay half of the reduced fee and children's families pay a small flat fee for services.