Medicaid dental coverage is a type of government and state-owned insurance that covers certain dental procedures. Most people who qualify for Medicaid are low-income individuals who fall under a certain income criteria. Medicaid is similar to other insurance companies, except they often require patients to seek treatment with certain dentists or oral surgeons as set forth within their policies.
Significance
The significance or advantage of having Medicaid dental coverage is to get routine dental care and emergency dental surgery done safely and affordably. Most state Medicaid insurance plans do not require a co-pay. They may, however, only pay for routine exams, check-ups or X-rays within a certain allotted time frame. They may also not cover all dental procedures, especially those that do not pose a serious health risk to the patient, such as cosmetic surgery, veneers or teeth whitening.
Qualifications
Qualifications to receive Medicaid dental coverage and Medicaid assistance vary state to state, and some states do not offer any dental coverage for recipients or limit coverage to those under the age of 21. Recipients must meet strict income guidelines in order to qualify. This means they should be at or below the federal poverty guideline level. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a family of four making under $22,050 per year may qualify for Medicaid dental coverage (as of 2009).
Functions
Individuals must apply for Medicaid dental coverage at their local Department of Health and Human Services location. Once they have an appointment or interview time established, they will be required to show proof of their income and liquid assets. They may also have to provide proof of citizenship such as immigration papers or a birth certificate. Once approved, the individual or family will be issued a Medicaid coverage card, instructions on how to use their card, and a provider directory so they can locate Medicaid providers within the area or county in which they reside.
Benefits
The benefits to having Medicaid dental coverage include being able to establish a healthy dental routine and preventative program with a dentists. Services covered may include X-rays, routine cleanings and exams, fluoride preventatives, sealants, cavity fillings, removal of a decayed tooth, tooth repair, crowns, partials, extractions, treatment of gum disease, and other disease or disorders of the mouth.
Potential
Having good oral care health means also having a healthy body and being able to eat nutritious foods. Many people only use Medicaid dental coverage temporarily until they find work or their employers' insurance becomes available. The program is also used as part of a spend-down program, where the Department of Health and Human Services establishes the basis for eligibility on what the client can pay out-of-pocket; clients may be responsible for paying a portion of their services in full before their benefits kick in.
Member Comments