Dental care options for college students at ASU, NAU, and U of A
Learn about student health clinics, community dentists, and low-cost dental school clinics available to Arizona college students. Find out how to access care while juggling classes and finances.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jose, DDS — September 10, 2026
Your dental care options as an Arizona college student
Balancing classes, work, and student life means dental care can slip down your to-do list. But your teeth and gums affect your health and confidence—and you have several options to fit dental visits into a student budget and schedule.
Option 1: On-Campus Student Health Centers
Most Arizona universities operate student health centers on campus. These clinics may offer preventive services like cleanings and exams, or they may provide referrals to community dentists and dental schools.
How to find out what’s available:
- Visit your university’s student health or wellness website.
- Call or email the health center directly to ask about dental services, eligibility, and how to book an appointment.
- Ask about insurance coverage: student health plans may cover preventive care at little or no cost.
- Confirm hours and location so you can fit appointments around your schedule.
Campus clinics can be convenient, but availability may be limited during busy times (exam weeks, start of semester). Plan ahead if you can.
Option 2: Community Dentists in Your College Town
Most dentists in Tempe, Flagstaff, and Tucson accept students with various insurance plans. You’ll have more appointment availability than on campus, and you can choose a provider based on location, hours, and approach.
How to find a community dentist:
- Ask the student health center for referrals.
- Use your dental insurance (or your parents’) to find in-network providers.
- Search online reviews and call offices to confirm they accept your insurance and offer new-patient appointments.
- Ask about student discounts or payment plans if you’re uninsured.
Visiting a community dentist is familiar: you’ll see the same provider over time, and emergency care may be easier to access outside campus hours.
Option 3: Dental School Clinics (Low-Cost Option)
Arizona’s dental schools run training clinics where students perform procedures—cleanings, fillings, extractions—under the direct supervision of licensed faculty dentists. These clinics typically charge less than private practices.
For details on dental school clinics in Arizona, including location, fees, and how to get an appointment, see our guide: Low-Cost Dental School Clinics in Arizona.
Advantages of dental school clinics:
- Lower fees than community dentists.
- Faculty oversight ensures quality.
- More time spent on each appointment (students are learning).
- Often serve uninsured or low-income patients.
What to know:
- Appointments may take longer than private dental offices.
- Availability can be limited; plan well in advance.
- Ask the clinic about all costs upfront so there are no surprises.
Choosing your best option
If you have student health insurance: Start by checking what’s covered and whether the student health center offers dental services. If it doesn’t or has limited availability, use your insurance to find a community dentist.
If you’re uninsured: Ask your campus health center about referrals to dental schools or low-cost community clinics. Dental school clinics are often your most affordable choice.
If you have a dental emergency: The student health center can advise you on urgent care; some community emergency dental services operate evenings and weekends. Ask for a referral or search for “emergency dentist” in your college town.
Keeping your teeth healthy while in school
No matter which option you choose, brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste, floss once a day, and limit sugary snacks and drinks. These habits—especially flossing—lower your risk of cavities and gum disease.
How MediMouth helps
MediMouth makes it easy to find and compare dentists in your area. Use our network to locate community dentists near campus, read patient feedback, and check if they accept your insurance. If you’re interested in a dental school clinic, our low-cost clinics guide has all the details you need to get started.
Your teeth deserve care even when you’re busy. The key is finding an option that fits your schedule and wallet—and sticking with it.
Frequently asked questions
Do ASU, NAU, and U of A have on-campus dental clinics for students?
Most universities offer student health services, which may include preventive dental care or referrals. Visit your university's health center website directly for hours, services, and how to schedule. Campus clinics vary widely in what they provide.
What if the campus clinic doesn't offer what I need?
You can visit a community dentist in your college town or explore low-cost dental school clinics run by Arizona dental schools. Dental school clinics often charge less than private practices because students perform procedures under faculty supervision.
How do I know which option is best for my budget and schedule?
Start by checking your student health plan coverage and campus clinic availability. Then compare community dentists and dental school clinics by asking about fees upfront, appointment wait times, and the specific services you need. Get recommendations from classmates and read online reviews.