The Governor’s proposed supplemental budget eliminates all non-emergency dental care for eligible Medicaid-insured adults ($8.6 million).
Pregnant women enrolled in Medicaid would lose dental coverage. Poor oral health can lead to complications with pregnancy. In addition, mothers can pass the bacteria that cause dental disease to their babies. Nearly half of all births in Washington are paid for by Medicaid so preventing dental disease in pregnant women can promote safer pregnancies and lead to better oral health for thousands of children.
Oral Health Care for Pregnant Women = Early prevention and cost savings
Vulnerable seniors and people with developmental disabilities would lose dental coverage. Older adults in nursing homes and long-term care who are enrolled in Medicaid would lose dental care which is important for healthy aging. People with developmental disabilities would also lose coverage for essential dental care.
Oral health is an essential part of overall health
Tell legislators to make a wise choice and protect oral health.
Families, businesses and taxpayers benefit when oral health is a priority. If people have access to dental care they are not forced to obtain expensive treatment in hospitals and emergency rooms.
Find us on Twitter @OralHealthWatch and help us deliver the message:
Let’s save dental coverage for Wa.’s most vulnerable. Good oral health means better overall health and saves money.
Go to OralHealthWatch.org to learn more.
Oral Health Watch
9 hours ago
Family schedules tend to be less structured as routines shift away from fixed wake-up times, school, and homework requirements. But don't forget to ensure ample time to maintain a good oral health routine. This includes regular brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing and hydrating with ...water (fluoridated is best) instead of sugary drinks. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
22 hours ago
#DYK tooth decay is largely preventable? Proven-effective strategies like access to regular dental visits, brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, and community water fluoridation can help kids and adults avoid the physical discomfort and burdensome cost of cavities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
#DYK tooth decay is largely preventable? Proven-effective strategies like access to regular dental visits, brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, and community water fluoridation can help kids and adults avoid the physical discomfort and burdensome cost of cavities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Thank you, Arcora Foundation, Delta Dental of Washington, Seattle Children's, and caring volunteer providers for making the SmileMobile possible. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
💯 Arcora Foundation. Oral health care needs don't go away just because coverage does. The estimated 250,000 Washingtonians in need of dental care to either pay out of pocket, delay preventive care and/or forego necessary dental treatment, leading to:
🤒 Needless pain and suffering
... 💵 Burdening patients with costly care
🏥 Straining hospital emergency departments and our health care system
💪 Compromising individual and community health
#teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Is it important for both parents and kids to have access to preventive oral health care? 💯 Parents who model good oral health habits make it more likely for children to adopt these practices from a young age. This proactive approach can help prevent future dental problems, missed school days due... to pain, and potential long-term health issues. #teethmatter