What percentage of dentists accept Medicaid in the US?

Asked by: Jerad Spencer  |  Last update: July 6, 2025
Score: 5/5 (42 votes)

Dentists in high-income areas or urban locations have fewer Medicaid patients. About 33% of dentists treat at least one Medicaid patient, which is lower than the national estimate of 43% based on data from IKN (ADA, 2020b).

Why don't a lot of dentists accept Medicaid?

Reimbursement Rates: Medicaid typically offers lower reimbursement rates compared to private insurance. Many dentists find that the payments they receive for services rendered under Medicaid do not cover their costs, making it financially unviable to accept Medicaid patients.

What percentage of US doctors accept Medicaid?

The percentage of physicians accepting new Medicaid patients (68.9%) was lower than the percentage accepting new Medicare (83.7%) or new privately insured (84.7%) patients.

What percentage does Medicaid pay for dental?

Medicaid FFS reimbursement, on average, is 49.4 percent of fees charged by dentists for children and 37.2 percent for adults.

Does Medicaid cover dental 100 percent?

Good news: Medicaid does offer dental coverage, but there may be some limitations depending on where you live and what type of treatment you need. Medicaid provides dental coverage for children in all states, but coverage for adults varies by state.

Medicaid benefits not accepted by many dental offices, here's where to find one

17 related questions found

Do all dentists take Medicaid?

About 33% of dentists treat at least one Medicaid patient, which is lower than the national estimate of 43% based on data from IKN (ADA, 2020b).

Why does my Medicaid not cover dental?

States may choose whether or not to provide dental benefits to their adult Medicaid-eligible population as part of its Medicaid program. While most states provide at least emergency dental services for adults, less than half of the states provide comprehensive dental care.

What does Medicaid not cover?

Though Medicaid covers a wide range of services, there are limitations on certain types of care, such as infertility treatments, elective abortions, and some types of alternative medicine. For example, the federal government lists family planning as a mandatory service benefit, but states interpret this differently.

What is the best dental insurance for someone on Medicare?

The best dental insurance for seniors on Medicare: 6 carriers to consider
  • Spirit Dental. ...
  • Renaissance Dental. ...
  • Denali Dental. ...
  • Delta Dental. ...
  • 5. California Dental.

Does Aspen dental take Medicaid?

No, we do not currently accept Medicaid. At Aspen Dental, we want to make sure you're always covered which is why we offer flexible dental financing options for patients without insurance or who are unable to use their coverage with us.

Why does no one accept Medicaid?

One reason is that reimbursement rates for Medicaid are lower than for Medicare or commercial insurance. Another (often overlooked) factor, however, is physician's risk of payment denials and the administrative hassle they face trying to get reimbursed by Medicaid.

Who uses Medicaid the most?

In 2020, Medicaid and CHIP provided coverage for nearly 55 million people of color. These programs provide essential coverage for a population that is more diverse than the broader U.S. population—especially among children, with 61 percent of Medicaid and CHIP enrollees under age 19 being children of color.

Do doctors prefer Medicaid or Medicare?

Physicians in general/family practice were less likely to accept Medicaid patients (68%) than Medicare (90%) or private insurance (91%). Only 36% of psychiatrists accepted new Medicaid patients compared to 62% who took Medicare patients and also 62% who accepted on private insurance.

How to get straight teeth with Medicaid?

Medicaid will typically cover children 21 and under with orthodontic needs, that are deemed medically necessary. Scheduling a no-cost consultation can help you find out if this is an option for your family and if Medicaid can help with the cost of braces.

Why don't dentists take Medicare?

The primary reason why Medicare does not cover dental care is because of the way the program was designed. When Medicare was created in 1965, dental care was not considered a part of routine medical care. As a result, dental coverage was not included in the original legislation.

Can you get false teeth with Medicaid?

No, unfortunately, dentures are not covered by Medicaid. However, if you have dental insurance, a portion of the costs may be covered. Most dental insurance providers have an annual spending cap of around $1,000 to $1,500 and one plate of dentures can start at about $2,500.

Is it true that Medicare now pays for dental implants?

Key Takeaways. Original Medicare excludes dental implants, covering them only in rare cases tied to medical treatment, like cancer care or accident recovery. Medicare Advantage plans can include implant coverage, but availability and benefits differ, making it essential to compare plans carefully.

What is the best dental for seniors?

The Highest-Ranked Senior Dental Plans for 2025
  • Cigna - Best App.
  • Mutual of Omaha - Best coverage without waiting periods.
  • Aetna - Most Comprehensive Plans.
  • Spirit Dental & Vision - Best Loyalty Program.
  • Humana - Best Coverage.

What are the downsides of Medicaid?

Disadvantages of Medicaid

One of the primary reasons for this is that Medicaid reimbursements are lower than those of commercial insurers for most procedures and treatments.

What is exempt from Medicaid?

Certain types of income, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), veteran's benefits, and some forms of child support, are exempted from the spend down calculation. These exemptions ensure that individuals with limited income sources can still qualify for Medicaid.

Will I lose my Medicaid if I get Medicare?

People who have both Medicare and full Medicaid coverage are “dually eligible.” Medicare pays first when you're a dual eligible and you get Medicare-covered services. Medicaid pays last, after Medicare and any other health insurance you have.

How much does Medicaid dental cover for adults?

There are more than 10 states offering limited adult dental coverage. Limited coverage means Medicaid covers less than 100 services. These can range from routine check-ups, cleanings, and fillings to minor dental repairs. The benefits are capped at $1,000 per person annually.

Does Medicaid cover periodontal disease?

Many Medicaid plans cover scaling and root planing procedures as they are essential treatments for periodontal disease.

How can I fix my teeth if I don't have money?

Free Dental Clinics
  1. Nonprofit clinics. Some cities have dental clinics that specifically serve people with low incomes, no insurance, or who otherwise can't afford care.
  2. Donated services. Some state or national charities use donated labor and materials to give free care. ...
  3. Private dentists.