Unfortunately, even the most courageous and accomplished veterans are not automatically provided dental benefits through the Veterans Administration (VA), even if they use the VA's medical benefits. Not only do few qualify for the dental benefits, but the process to secure those benefits is long and arduous even if you do qualify. Regardless of the bureaucracy involved, if you stay motivated and do the legwork, you will have a good chance of getting your dental benefits approved.
Instructions
1. Determine whether you are eligible. The U.S. government does not provide dental care for all veterans who utilize the VA's medical benefits. Dental care is only provided to those who have a dental disability stemming from a service-connected medical condition, or who fall under eight other categories listed within the U.S. law. Review the full law document using the link in References.
2. Gather information about your disability. Even if it seems obvious that you are eligible for dental benefits through the VA, you need to document the reasons. Compile all the doctors' reports about your condition and request letters from the doctors specifically stating on their medical letterhead whatever it is you need to prove your right to dental benefits. Also get letters from fellow veterans who served with you; have them address the incident that caused the medical condition if they witnessed either the incident or your medical treatment afterwards.
3. Contact a Veteran Service Officer (VSO). The Disabled American Veterans, American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars can help you find a VSO to work on your claim. See Resources for a list of VSOs in your state.
4. Appear before the Veterans Administration Board. Go personally to make your claim before the board and take the VSO with you. You want to be able to explain your situation and the effects of your disability. The Board will make a decision on your case after seeing the documentation and hearing from you.
5. Look back at past dental treatments. Think back through the years since your discharge from military service. Even if you don't qualify for care under the nine categories listed under the law, you are allowed to receive one complete episode of dental treatment following discharge from military service. If you have not used this one dental treatment allowance thus far, you are eligible to receive it now. You will be able to obtain this without approval from the Board.
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