Can’t Get a Ride to the Dentist— Here’s What to Do

Transportation is one of the most common reasons people — especially seniors — skip dental care. You don’t drive, your family isn’t available, rideshares feel uncertain, and medical transport is complicated to arrange. It’s a real problem, and it’s more widespread than most people realize. Here are your options.

Option 1: Use a Mobile Dentist (The Simplest Solution)

If transportation is your primary barrier to dental care, the most direct solution is to use a mobile dentist who comes to you. With Smiles by Delivery, there is no transportation to arrange. You call, schedule an appointment, and we come to your home. That’s it. No car, no ride, no problem.

This isn’t a lesser form of dental care — it’s the same professional treatment, delivered where you are. For many patients, it’s actually a better experience than a traditional dental office because it’s less stressful and more comfortable.

Option 2: Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Many Medicare Advantage plans and Medicaid plans include non-emergency medical transportation as a covered benefit. This means the plan pays for a vehicle (often a van or accessible vehicle) to take you to and from medical appointments — including dental appointments. Check your insurance card or call your plan’s member services line to ask if this benefit is included and how to use it.

Option 3: Paratransit Services

In the Phoenix area, Valley Metro operates Valley Metro Dial-a-Ride, a paratransit service for people with disabilities who cannot use fixed-route transit. If you qualify, this can provide door-to-door transportation for medical appointments. It requires advance scheduling, but for patients who need ongoing care, it’s worth setting up.

Option 4: Community and Volunteer Programs

Many senior centers, faith communities, and volunteer organizations in the Phoenix metro area offer ride assistance for medical appointments. Area Agency on Aging (in Arizona, this is served by the Arizona Department of Economic Security Aging and Adult Services) can connect you with local programs that may offer transportation help.

Option 5: Telehealth for Consultations (Limited but Useful)

While full dental care cannot be delivered via telehealth, some concerns — questions about symptoms, whether something looks alarming, basic guidance — can sometimes be addressed with a phone or video consultation. This won’t replace a real exam, but it can help you decide whether something is urgent and needs immediate attention.

Don’t Let Transportation Win

Your oral health is worth fighting for. Whether through mobile dentistry, insurance-covered transportation, or community resources, there are paths to getting care. The simplest, most reliable path is just calling us.

Ready to schedule— Call Smiles by Delivery at 623-584-4746 or visit smilesbydelivery.com