Last Updated on March 5, 2025
Good oral health is essential, but for many Angelenos, the cost of dental care can be a major barrier. Whether you’re struggling with a toothache, need a routine checkup, or require more extensive treatment, finding affordable dental clinics in South Los Angeles can feel overwhelming.
Fortunately, there are clinics across these communities that provide free or low-cost dental services, ensuring that cost isn’t a barrier to a healthy smile. In this guide, we’ve compiled 5 free and affordable dental clinics that offer essential care, from exams and cleanings to fillings and extractions. Whether you’re uninsured, underinsured, or just looking for an affordable option, these clinics can help you access the dental care you need.
How to Find Affordable Dental Clinics In south Los Angeles
In previous articles, we explored various ways that you can get affordable dental care. Some communities may be limited in the resources offered, but generally you can expect to find affordable clinics at:
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): These clinics provide care on a sliding fee scale, adjusting costs based on income. They accept all patients, regardless of income or insurance status, making them an accessible option for those in need.
- Free or Low Cost Clinics: These clinics have stricter eligibility requirements, often serving only uninsured or underinsured individuals within specific income brackets based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- Sliding Scale Clinics: Similar to FQHCs, these clinics base fees on income, but they receive little to no government funding. They are often found in hospitals, Planned Parenthood centers, and local health departments. They may or may not provide dental care.
NeedyMeds offers a nationwide database of over 20,000 clinics, making it easy to find affordable dental care in your area.
5 Affordable Dental Clinics In South Los Angeles
1. Central City Community Health Center
Central City Community Health Center’s South Los Angeles is a FQHC that provides services on a sliding scale fee. Dental visits start at $40 for those at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and include exams, cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They accept everyone, regardless of income or insurance status.
2. South Central Family Health Center
South Central Family Health Center provides low-cost dental care in South Los Angeles, with sliding-scale fees for uninsured and underinsured patients. Services include exams, cleanings, fillings, and extractions. The clinic also helps patients enroll in Medi-Cal, Medicare, and other assistance programs, ensuring access to affordable healthcare. With a focus on community-based care, it’s a key resource for South LA residents seeking quality, budget-friendly services.
3. St. John’s Community Health
St. John’s Community Health has several locations throughout South Los Angeles, offering income-based discounts through its Sliding Fee Discount Program. Patients earning 100% or less of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) qualify for free dental visits, while others pay reduced rates starting at $40.
4. Fremont Family Dental Clinic
At UMMA Community Clinic’s Fremont Dental Clinic, patients earning 100% of the FPL or less pay a nominal fee of $30 for preventive dental care, while those earning up to 200% FPL pay between $35 and $50 per visit. Those above 200% FPL pay full price.
The clinic partners with dental providers to help subsidize treatment costs, ensuring exams, cleanings, fillings, and extractions remain accessible. Patients needing services over $500 may also qualify for additional discounts through UMMA’s partner programs.
5. APLA Health
APLA Health offers affordable dental care in South Los Angeles, with sliding-scale fees based on income. Patients at 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) or below receive free dental care, while those between 101% and 200% FPL pay between $5 and $20 per visit.
For specific procedures, additional lab fees apply, including $100 for crowns, $300 for dentures, and $200 for stayplates. APLA Health ensures that uninsured and low-income patients can access preventive and restorative dental services, making it a key resource for those needing budget-friendly oral healthcare.
Find Affordable Dental Clinics Near You
Accessing low-cost or free dental care in los angeles doesn’t have to be difficult. NeedyMeds’ free online database helps you find FQHCs, community clinics, and nonprofit providers that offer budget-friendly dental services.
Start your search today and get the dental care you need–without the high costs.
