Dental Program of Acadiana
The Donated Dental Program of Acadiana is comprised of volunteer dentists throughout Acadiana (Acadia, Avoyelles, Evangeline, Iberia, Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Mary, Terrebonne and Vermilion parishes) and provides free dental treatment for patients who have been approved for the program. These volunteer dentists offer their office and staff out of the kindness of their hearts. In 2012, this program saw 149 patients, donating $199,015 worth of dental care.
Criteria for eligibility: Patients must be 62 years or older with household income at or below the Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) and not working or 18 years plus receiving SSI and/or SSD due to a severe disability which prevents the person from working, with household income at or below FPG. Patients must be ambulatory. Examples of Disabilities: mental retardation, muscle disorders, Cerebral Palsy, visual and hearing impairments, epilepsy, developmental disabilities, spinal cord injuries (no other type of back injury) and mental illnesses (bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc.). Examples of Medically Compromising Conditions: cancer, renal/kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease and liver disease. Proof of Gross Income (required for all household members): bank statement; award letter for Social Security, SSI and SSD, retirement; pensions; and, any other income statements. The program does not offer full mouth extractions, posterior (back) root canals, dentures or bridge work.
For more information contact: 232-HELP/LA 211 Donated Dental Program, P.O. Box 52763, Lafayette, LA 70505, call 337-232-4357 or fax 337-232-1960.
St. Bernadette Community Clinic
409 St. John Street
Lafayette, La. 70501
337-267-1437
St. Bernadette’s Clinic is a walk in clinic that provides evaluation of dental pain and medical treatment for dental infections. Low income, uninsured and underinsured populations are eligible for medical services. Dental extractions are offered to residents of Acadiana who meet the eligibility criteria. However, there is a waiting list for dental extractions which are available by appointment only. Patients requesting services should bring a picture ID and all current medications to the clinic. Patients can call the clinic at 337-267-1437 for further information.
The dental clinic is staffed by volunteer dentists and dental assistants. The nursing staff employed at the clinic work closely with the dental volunteers during extraction clinic days. Dental professionals interested in joining the volunteer team can call Gigi Dossey at 337-267-1437 or email at
dosseym@lourdesrmc.com.