Retirement is supposed to be a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor. But with the rising costs of housing, food and medical care, many retirees struggle to make ends meet. To make matters worse, there's another expense that retirees or those nearing the retirement age often overlook: dental care. Because Medicare doesn't provide dental coverage, many retirees are forced to go into debt to cover the costs or forgo treatment due to monetary constraints. (One exception: Qualifying dental services received in the hospital under Medicare Part A, according to Medicare.gov).

Retirees have faced this dilemma for quite some time. The issue dates back 50 years, to the origination of Medicare, when oral health was not included in that bill, OHA president and CEO Beth Truett told CNBC. Furthermore, only 10% of seniors even have dental coverage when they retire, the article adds. Fortunately, there are options for retirees to help combat the exorbitant costs of preventive and restorative dental care. (For more, see 5 Companies Offering Low-Cost Dental Insurance.)

According to Money magazine, ...about half [of Medicare Advantage Plans] offer very limited coverage for cleanings and exams. However, you will have to pay an additional premium, coinsurance and copayments, notes Medicare.gov. To determine if you qualify for dental coverage under your Medicare Advantage Plan, contact your provider. And if you'd like to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan, contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) office to learn more. (For more, see How to Choose the Best Medicare Advantage Plan.)

If you are a veteran, you may qualify for reduced-cost dental coverage through the VA Dental Care program. You can review the Dental Benefits for Veterans document to determine your eligibility or call 1-877-222-8387 to learn more.

Proceeds from Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be used by those with high-deductible health plans to cover out-of-pocket dental costs. . Distributions taken to cover qualified medical expenses are also tax-exempt, according to IRS Publication 969. You can't contribute to an HSA if you're enrolled in Medicare, but you can use HSA funds you already have. Investopedia's tutorial How HSAs Work will give you more information.

There are scores of dental discount plans to help make treatment more affordable for those without insurance. Some plans offer savings up to 60% on cleanings, crowns, fillings, dentures and more, says DentalPlans.com. As a bonus you may also be eligible for chiropractic, vision and hearing services under the plan, the website adds. To explore your options use the search tool offered on the website.

Dental schools offer high-quality, low-cost care in a teaching environment. Students who perform dental work are supervised by board-certified dentists at all times. You can locate a dental school in your area by using the search tool on the Commission on Dental Accreditation's (CODA) website.

You can also try the local health department. You may have reservations, but it beats forgoing much-needed care. Plus, services are rendered by board-certified dentists and licensed professionals at an affordable rate. To find a location nearest you, contact your state's health department.

There are several nonprofit dental clinics around the nation that cater to those in need by providing services free of charge or at a steeply discounted rate. Visit the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics' website to find a clinic near you.

As Medicare doesn't provide dental coverage, the cost of care can easily take a financial toll on retirees living on a fixed income. However, exercising one of these options will help lower the costs. If all else fails, try explaining your financial situation to the provider. You may be able to negotiate a lower rate prior to receiving treatment. (For more, see The Average Cost of Dental Insurance in America.)