Affordable Dental Care Options?

I’m on Medicaid and the dental plan only covers an annual dental exam. I got my exam done a few weeks ago and I need quite a bit of work done as I have not even had a cleaning in about 6 years.

For Medicaid they only cover procedures if you’re under 21 or if you’re pregnant. I am 25 and not pregnant and do not plan on getting pregnant anytime soon.

For starters, I need a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) along with multiple fillings. I am also in need of getting my permanent retainer fixed or replaced as it’s been 10 years since I’ve had it and part of it is lifting up and no longer adhered to my tooth. I know that’s orthodontic work, which I also have absolutely no coverage for.

Does anyone have any suggestions for affordable offices for dental work and orthodontic work? If they offer nitrous oxide that would also be helpful as I have an extreme fear of dentists.

The dentist I went to for my exam told me to apply for Care Credit, but I doubt I would be approved for anything near the amount I need, plus my credit score is poor so I may not even get approved for anything.

Also, does anyone have any experience with UNLV’s dental clinic or orthodontic clinic? I’ve been looking at that as an option but I don’t believe they have payment plans, which would be helpful for me.

Thanks in advance :)