Millions of Americans Lose Dental Coverage Post-Pandemic

The CareQuest Institute for Oral Health^® reveals through analysis that approximately 12 million individuals, including 5.9 million adults and 6.1 million children, lost Medicaid dental coverage after the expiration of the COVID-19 public health emergency in April 2023. Once information through December 2023 becomes available, this number is estimated to increase to 13.9 million. Despite efforts for redetermination, nearly 10 million of these individuals remained without dental insurance, underscoring gaps in access to oral healthcare. The report stresses the need for enhanced access to oral health coverage, particularly for marginalized populations. Advocacy for policies enabling adult dental benefits within private market plans is essential. The findings highlight the urgency for community and state organizations to aid impacted individuals in finding new coverage options, promoting overall health equity. Click here to read more.