How I Got a Full Set of Dentures for Free Through Adult Medicaid
The Smile I Thought I’d Lost Forever
For years, I could barely eat. My remaining teeth were broken and painful, and I was too embarrassed to smile. I thought dentures were a cosmetic luxury I could never afford. When I got on my state’s adult Medicaid program, I asked my case manager if they could possibly help. I was shocked to learn that because my dental health was so poor that it was affecting my nutrition, a full set of dentures was considered “medically necessary.” Medicaid covered the extractions and the entire cost of my new, beautiful dentures. It didn’t just change my smile; it changed my life.
The Ultimate Guide to Getting Your Vision Exam and Free Glasses with Medicaid
The World Came Into Focus, For Free
I had been wearing the same pair of scratched, outdated glasses for almost a decade. I couldn’t afford a new exam or new lenses. The year I got on Medicaid, I decided to check my vision benefits. It was so simple. My plan covered a full eye exam with an optometrist every single year with a zero co-pay. After the exam, I was able to pick out a brand-new pair of frames from a wide selection, and the plan covered the cost of the new lenses. The world was finally in focus again.
Does Medicaid Cover Dental Implants? The Surprising Answer.
The Gold Standard of Dental Care
After I had a tooth extracted, my dentist told me the best long-term solution was a dental implant. I laughed. I knew an implant cost thousands of dollars and assumed Medicaid would never cover such a “premium” service. He told me that in some rare cases, it’s possible. We had to prove that a cheaper option, like a bridge, was not medically viable due to the condition of my other teeth. It was a long shot, and it required a lot of documentation and a powerful letter from my dentist, but in my specific case, Medicaid did approve it.
How to Find a Good Dentist That Accepts Medicaid (And Won’t Judge You)
The Dentist Who Treated Me With Dignity
I was terrified of finding a dentist who took Medicaid. I pictured a crowded, dirty office where I’d be treated like a second-class citizen. I was determined to find a good one. I didn’t just use my plan’s directory. I went on my local community Facebook group and asked, “Can anyone recommend a kind, gentle dentist who is great and also accepts Medicaid?” I got three amazing recommendations. I found a wonderful private practice that was clean, modern, and treated me with the utmost respect and dignity. They are out there.
My Journey to Getting Hearing Aids Covered by My Medicaid Plan
The Sounds I Thought I’d Never Hear Again
The world had been growing quiet around me for years. I was missing conversations with my grandchildren. I knew hearing aids were incredibly expensive, and I assumed Medicare wouldn’t cover them. Then I got on Medicaid as a dual eligible. I learned that while Medicare for adults doesn’t cover hearing aids, many state Medicaid plans do. I had a hearing test, and my audiologist prescribed a pair of digital hearing aids. My Medicaid plan covered the entire cost. The first time I heard the birds chirping clearly again, I cried.
Root Canals, Crowns, and Fillings: What Your State’s Medicaid Dental Plan Actually Covers
Beyond Just a Cleaning
I thought adult Medicaid dental benefits would only cover a basic cleaning and maybe an emergency extraction. I was living with a painful, broken tooth, and I was scared of the cost to fix it. I finally went to a dentist who took my plan. I was amazed to learn that my state’s plan covered a wide range of restorative work. They approved the root canal to save the tooth, and they even covered the permanent crown to protect it. It wasn’t just about pulling teeth; it was about saving them.
The “Medically Necessary” Loophole for Getting Adult Braces Covered
The Braces That Weren’t for Looks
As an adult, I never dreamed Medicaid would pay for braces. I thought they were purely cosmetic. But my teeth were so crowded and misaligned that it was causing severe TMJ jaw pain and I was getting frequent headaches. My dentist and an orthodontist worked together to document my case. They made a powerful argument that the orthodontic treatment was “medically necessary” to correct a skeletal issue and alleviate my chronic pain. Because of the strong medical justification, my adult braces were approved and covered by my Medicaid plan.
How to Maximize Your Annual Dental Benefits Before They Expire
My End-of-Year Dental Sprint
I learned that my Medicaid dental plan had an annual dollar limit on what it would pay for care. The benefits didn’t roll over; if I didn’t use them, I’d lose them. In the fall, I called my dentist’s office. I said, “I’d like to schedule any remaining preventative care I’m eligible for this year before my benefits expire.” We scheduled a cleaning and got my last small filling taken care of. By being proactive at the end of the year, I was able to maximize the benefits I was entitled to.
A State-by-State Guide to Adult Dental Benefits on Medicaid
The Geographic Lottery of Dental Care
My sister in New York gets amazing dental care through her Medicaid plan, including crowns and bridges. My cousin in Florida told me his plan barely covers anything beyond an extraction. I learned that adult dental care on Medicaid is an “optional” benefit, and the coverage varies dramatically from state to state. It’s a geographic lottery. Before you assume what’s covered, you have to find the specific benefit manual for your state’s Medicaid program. Some states are incredibly generous, while others offer very little.
“I Need an Emergency Extraction.” How to Get Same-Day Dental Care on Medicaid.
The Pain That Couldn’t Wait
I woke up with an abscessed tooth and pain that was a 10 out of 10. It was a true dental emergency. I called my Medicaid plan’s dental hotline. I told them I was in severe pain and needed an emergency extraction. They were able to find me a dental clinic in my city that had specific “emergency” appointment slots for Medicaid patients. I was able to get an appointment that same afternoon. The infected tooth was pulled, and my pain was finally gone. They understood that some dental problems just can’t wait.
The Truth About Medicaid Vision Coverage: Beyond Just Glasses
It’s Not Just About Seeing, It’s About Health
My Medicaid vision benefit did more than just buy me a new pair of glasses. During my routine, covered eye exam, my optometrist detected the early signs of glaucoma. Because he caught it early, he was able to refer me to an ophthalmologist—a medical eye doctor—for treatment. My Medicaid plan covered those specialist visits and the prescription eye drops I now need to take every day. My “free eye exam” wasn’t just about vision correction; it was a crucial medical screening that may have saved my sight.
How to Get Your Child’s Dental Sedation Covered for Major Procedures
The Sleep That Made His Treatment Possible
My young son had several cavities and was terrified of the dentist. There was no way he could sit still for the extensive work he needed. His pediatric dentist recommended doing the treatment under sedation in a hospital setting. I was worried Medicaid wouldn’t cover this “extra” expense. But because of his young age and his extreme anxiety, the sedation was deemed “medically necessary” to allow him to safely receive the dental care he needed. His Medicaid plan covered the entire hospital visit, including the anesthesia.
The Best and Worst Medicaid Plans for Dental Coverage
The Plan I Chose for My Smile
When it was time to pick my Medicaid Managed Care plan, my number one priority was dental benefits. I did my homework. I went to the website for each of the three plans offered in my state. I found their “Member Handbook” and went straight to the section on dental coverage. Plan A only covered cleanings and extractions. Plan B covered fillings. But Plan C had the best benefits, including coverage for crowns and even partial dentures. I chose Plan C, because I knew that good dental care was essential to my overall health.
How to Appeal a Denied Dental or Vision Claim
The Denial I Decided to Fight
My Medicaid plan denied my dentist’s request to cover a crown, saying it wasn’t necessary. I was disappointed, but my dentist’s office helped me appeal. My dentist wrote a detailed letter to the plan’s dental director. He included X-rays and photos of the tooth. He explained that because the tooth was cracked, a simple filling would fail, and a crown was the only viable, long-term solution to save the tooth. The strong, detailed clinical evidence from my dentist convinced the plan to overturn their denial and approve the crown.
Preventive Care: The Free Dental Cleanings and Exams That Can Save Your Teeth
The Easiest Way to Avoid a Toothache
For years, the only time I went to a dentist was when I was in extreme pain. Now that I have Medicaid, I have a new strategy: prevention. My plan covers a full dental cleaning and exam every six months at no cost to me. I now go to every single one of those appointments. My hygienist cleans my teeth, and the dentist can spot a tiny cavity when it’s still an easy, small filling, long before it turns into a painful, expensive root canal. These free preventative visits are the key to my long-term oral health.
Does Medicaid Cover Contacts Instead of Glasses?
The Choice I Had to Pay For
I hate wearing glasses and really wanted contact lenses. After my free eye exam, I asked the optometrist if my Medicaid plan would cover contacts. He told me that in almost all cases, Medicaid will only pay for the “most cost-effective” form of vision correction, which is a standard pair of glasses. While my exam was covered, if I wanted contacts, I would have to pay for them out of my own pocket. It was considered a cosmetic preference, not a medical necessity. I stuck with the free glasses.
How to Get Denture Repairs or Replacements Covered
My New Dog and My Broken Dentures
I had gotten a full set of dentures through my Medicaid plan a few years ago. Then, our new puppy got ahold of them and used them as a chew toy. I was devastated. I called my dental clinic, and they told me that my Medicaid plan does cover denture repairs or a full replacement, but only after a certain number of years have passed. I was just outside the limit. We had to submit a special request, explaining that the replacement was needed due to an accident. The plan approved it, and I got my smile back.
Navigating a University Dental School Clinic for Low-Cost, High-Quality Care
The Students Who Saved My Teeth
I needed a lot of dental work, and I couldn’t find a private dentist in my area who had openings for new Medicaid patients. Someone suggested I try the dental school at the local university. It was a fantastic experience. The work was done by dental students, but they were supervised by experienced, licensed dentists at every single step. The clinic accepted my Medicaid plan, the quality of the care was excellent, and I felt good about helping to train the next generation of dentists.
The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health (And Why Medicaid Cares)
My Gums and My Heart
I have diabetes, and I was surprised when my Medicaid case manager called me to remind me to schedule a dental cleaning. She explained that gum disease and inflammation can actually make it harder to control my blood sugar. She told me that Medicaid invests in dental care not just for my teeth, but for my whole body’s health. By keeping my mouth healthy, I was also helping to manage my diabetes and prevent future complications. It made me realize how connected everything is.
A Guide to Periodontal (Gum Disease) Treatment on Medicaid
The Deep Cleaning That Saved My Gums
My dentist told me I had the early signs of periodontal (gum) disease. He said I needed more than a regular cleaning; I needed a “deep cleaning,” also called scaling and root planing, to get below the gum line. I was worried this specialized treatment wouldn’t be covered by my Medicaid plan. But because it was a treatment for an active disease process, not just prevention, it was considered medically necessary. My plan covered the entire, multi-visit procedure, which helped stop the gum disease in its tracks and save my teeth.
How to Get a Second Pair of “Backup” Glasses Covered
My “Just in Case” Pair
I am notoriously clumsy and I’m always misplacing my glasses. I really wanted a backup pair, just in case. My Medicaid plan’s benefit booklet said they only covered one pair every two years. I thought I was out of luck. But then I read the fine print. There was an exception: if my prescription changed significantly within that two-year period, they would cover a new pair. At my next annual exam, my vision had gotten a little worse. The new prescription was different enough to qualify me for another free pair of glasses.
The Complete Guide to Pediatric Dental Benefits (EPSDT)
The Federal Law That Protects My Kid’s Smile
I learned that the dental benefits for my son on Medicaid are much, much better than the adult benefits. The reason is a federal law called EPSDT. It means Medicaid has to cover any dental service that is necessary to treat or improve a child’s condition. This includes things that might be limited for adults, like crowns on baby teeth or even braces if they are medically necessary. EPSDT is a powerful legal protection that ensures our children have access to the comprehensive dental care they need for a healthy start.
Does Medicaid Cover Cochlear Implants?
The Sound of My Son’s Voice
My son was born with profound hearing loss. His audiologist recommended a cochlear implant, a complex electronic device that could give him the sense of sound. The surgery and the device cost over a hundred thousand dollars. We were terrified. But because my son was on Medicaid, we were protected by the EPSDT mandate. His doctor made a powerful case that the implant was medically necessary for his language and brain development. Medicaid covered the entire, life-changing procedure. The first time he turned and looked at me when I said his name was a miracle.
How to Find an Ophthalmologist for Glaucoma or Cataract Care
The Medical Eye Doctor My Plan Covered
My routine eye exam, covered by my Medicaid vision plan, revealed I had the early signs of cataracts. My optometrist told me I needed to see an “ophthalmologist,” a medical doctor who specializes in eye diseases and surgery. I was worried this would be considered a specialist and hard to get covered. I used my Medicaid plan’s provider directory and searched specifically for ophthalmologists. I found a great one in my network. My visits to monitor my cataracts, and the eventual surgery to remove them, were all covered as a medical service.
The Unspoken Value of a Healthy Smile: A Medicaid Story
The Confidence I Found in a Cleaning
For years, I was too embarrassed to smile in pictures or even laugh out loud in a conversation. My teeth were stained and I had a chipped front tooth. I felt judged. It destroyed my self-confidence. When I finally got on Medicaid, I was able to see a dentist for the first time in a decade. A simple cleaning and a small, bonded filling on my chipped tooth changed how I saw myself. It wasn’t just about my health; it was about my dignity. That simple, free dental work gave me back my confidence.
How to Get Transportation to Your Dental and Vision Appointments
The Ride to My New Smile
I had a series of long dental appointments scheduled to get a root canal and a crown. My car was unreliable, and I was stressed about getting there on time. I called the member services number on my Medicaid card and asked if their transportation benefit applied to dental visits. They said yes. For every single one of my dental appointments, they arranged for a free car service to take me there and back. It was an incredible benefit that made a stressful dental procedure just a little bit easier.
What to Do if You Get a Bill from Your Medicaid Dentist
The Bill That Was a Mistake
A week after my dental cleaning, I got a bill in the mail from the dentist’s office for $75. I knew my visit should have been a zero co-pay with my Medicaid plan. I didn’t get angry; I just got curious. I called the dentist’s office manager. I politely explained that I was on Medicaid and shouldn’t have a bill. She looked up my file and discovered they had accidentally billed my old, inactive insurance plan. It was a simple clerical error. She re-billed Medicaid, and the bill disappeared.
A Guide to Understanding Dental X-Rays and Treatment Plans
I Learned to Read My Own Mouth
My dentist put my X-rays up on the screen and started talking about “distal caries” and “buccal fillings.” I was completely lost. I stopped him and said, “Can you please explain that to me in simple terms?” He was happy to. He showed me the dark spot on the X-ray that was a cavity. He used a little mirror to show me the tooth in my mouth. He explained why he was recommending a specific treatment plan. Taking a moment to ask for a simple explanation empowered me to understand my own health and be a partner in my care.
How to Get Special Lenses (Like Bifocals or Scratch-Resistant Coatings) Covered
The “Add-Ons” That Were Included
I needed bifocals, and I’m clumsy, so I really wanted scratch-resistant lenses. I thought these “upgrades” would be something I’d have to pay for out of pocket. I was surprised to learn that my state’s Medicaid plan considered both bifocals and a basic scratch-resistant coating to be “medically necessary” for someone with my prescription and history. They were included as part of my standard, free pair of glasses. It’s always worth asking what’s included before you assume you have to pay extra.
The Best Over-the-Counter Dental Products Your OTC Card Can Buy
My Free Shopping Spree for Oral Health
My Medicaid Managed Care plan came with an “Over-the-Counter” (OTC) card, which was loaded with a new allowance every quarter. I learned I could use it for more than just pain relievers. I went to the pharmacy and used my OTC card to stock up on oral health supplies. I got new toothbrushes for my whole family, my favorite kind of toothpaste, mouthwash, and even a new case for my dentures. These were all approved items, and it saved me a significant amount on my monthly grocery bill.
Navigating Long Wait Times for Dental Appointments
The Waiting Game, and How I Won
I called a dental clinic that accepted Medicaid and they told me the first available appointment for a cleaning was in six months. I was discouraged. I used a simple strategy. I asked the receptionist, “Do you have a cancellation list I can be put on?” She said yes. I also called two other clinics and did the same thing. A week later, the first clinic called me back. They had a last-minute cancellation for the next day. By being proactive and getting on the cancellation list, I was able to get seen in a week, not six months.
Does Medicaid Cover Anesthesia for Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The Sleep That Made It Painless
My son needed to have all four of his wisdom teeth removed. It was a complicated extraction, and the oral surgeon recommended it be done under IV sedation. I was worried that the anesthesia would be a huge extra cost that Medicaid wouldn’t cover. Because the surgeon documented that the deep sedation was “medically necessary” for such an extensive and difficult surgical procedure, my son’s Medicaid plan approved and covered it all. He had a safe, painless surgery, and we didn’t have a bill.
How to Find a Mobile Dentist for a Homebound Patient
The Dentist Who Came to Her
My elderly mother is bed-bound, and she developed a painful toothache. There was no way I could get her to a dental office. I was desperate. The social worker at her home health agency told me to search for a “mobile dentist.” I found a dental practice in my area that had a van with portable dental equipment. They came to our home, and the dentist was able to do an exam and a simple extraction right by my mother’s bedside. Her Medicaid plan covered the at-home visit because she was certified as “homebound.”
The Connection Between Diabetes and Vision Care on Medicaid
My Eyes and My Blood Sugar
I have Type 2 Diabetes, and my Medicaid case manager is always reminding me to get my annual eye exam. I learned why. Diabetes can cause a serious eye disease called diabetic retinopathy. My annual, dilated eye exam is a crucial screening to catch this disease early before it can damage my vision. Because I have diabetes, my vision care is considered a key part of managing my overall health. Medicaid covers it 100% because they know that protecting my sight is a critical part of protecting me.
A Guide to Getting Hearing Tests and Audiologist Visits Covered
The Test That Confirmed What I Already Knew
I knew my hearing was getting worse, but I needed an official diagnosis to get help. My primary care doctor gave me a referral to an audiologist for a comprehensive hearing test. My Medicaid plan covered the specialist visit and the entire battery of tests in the soundproof booth. The audiologist confirmed I had significant hearing loss and wrote a prescription for hearing aids. That initial, covered evaluation was the necessary first step on my journey to getting my hearing aids paid for by my plan.
How to File a Grievance About a Bad Medicaid Dentist
The Complaint That Protected Other Patients
I had a terrible experience with a dentist who did shoddy work and was rude to me. I felt like he was taking advantage of Medicaid patients. I knew I had to report him. I called my Medicaid plan’s member services line and told them I wanted to file a “grievance” against a provider. I gave them a detailed account of what happened. Filing a formal grievance created an official record of the poor care. It not only helped me get my issue resolved, but it also helped the plan identify bad actors and protect other patients from having the same experience.
The Future of Adult Dental Benefits in Your State
The Benefits That Are Getting Better
For years, my state’s adult Medicaid dental benefit was very limited—it only covered emergencies. But recently, advocacy groups in my state successfully fought to expand the benefits. Now, the plan covers preventative cleanings and even restorative work like fillings and crowns. It’s a reminder that Medicaid is not a static program. It’s constantly changing. It’s always worth checking your state’s benefits every year, because they may have improved since the last time you looked. The trend is toward better, more comprehensive dental care.
Does Medicaid Cover Lasik? The Honest Answer.
The Surgery That Was a “Want,” Not a “Need”
I dreamed of getting Lasik surgery and never having to wear glasses again. I have Medicaid and wondered if there was any way they would cover it. The honest answer is no. Lasik is considered a “cosmetic” procedure. It’s a “want,” not a “medical necessity.” Medicaid is designed to ensure you can see clearly with glasses or contacts, which is the most cost-effective solution. It is not designed to pay for elective, cosmetic procedures. I knew that if I wanted Lasik, it was a goal I would have to save for myself.
How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Dental Visit
The Happy Visit That Set the Stage for a Healthy Life
I wanted my daughter’s first dental visit to be a positive experience. The pediatric dentist we chose, who accepted her Medicaid plan, gave us some great tips. They told us to “play dentist” at home first, counting her teeth. They recommended a book about a character who has a fun first visit. When we arrived, the office was bright and friendly, and the hygienist let her ride up and down in the chair before she even looked in her mouth. Her free, “happy visit” set the stage for a lifetime of positive dental health.
Understanding Annual Caps and Service Limits on Dental Plans
The Limit I Had to Watch
My adult Medicaid dental plan was a huge help, but it had an “annual cap.” This meant the plan would only pay a maximum of $1,500 for my dental care per year. I needed a lot of work done. My dentist’s office manager was a genius at helping me maximize my benefits. We created a multi-year treatment plan. We did the most urgent work this year, up to the $1,500 limit. Then, we scheduled the rest of the work for January, when my annual benefit would reset. We worked within the rules to get everything done.
The Secret to Getting a Partial Denture or Bridge Covered
The Gap in My Smile, and My Coverage
I had a missing tooth that was making it hard to chew. I didn’t need a full denture, just a “partial denture” to fill the gap. I was worried Medicaid wouldn’t cover it. My dentist made the case to my plan that the missing tooth was impacting my ability to eat properly and that the teeth on either side were shifting, which would cause future problems. Because he documented the “functional” and “medical” reasons why I needed the partial, not just cosmetic ones, the plan approved and covered the cost.
How to Use Your FSA or HSA to Supplement Medicaid Dental Coverage
The Two Accounts That Fixed My Tooth
My Medicaid plan covered most of the cost of a necessary crown, but there was a small portion that I was still responsible for. I was able to use the money in my Flexible Spending Account (FSA) from my part-time job to pay that remaining balance. The FSA allows me to set aside pre-tax money specifically for medical and dental expenses. Using my FSA to supplement my Medicaid benefit was a smart, tax-advantaged way to handle the small out-of-pocket costs that came up.
A Guide to Cosmetic vs. Medically Necessary Dental Work
The Line Between Your Smile and Your Health
I wanted my teeth whitened and a small gap between my front teeth closed. My dentist explained that Medicaid draws a hard line between “cosmetic” and “medically necessary” work. Whitening and closing a small, healthy gap is purely cosmetic, and Medicaid will not pay for it. However, if a tooth is broken or decayed, fixing it with a crown is medically necessary. If crowded teeth are causing jaw pain, braces can be medically necessary. Understanding this distinction is the key to knowing what will and won’t be covered.
The Most Overlooked Dental Benefit in Your Medicaid Plan
The Night Guard That Saved My Teeth
I was suffering from terrible jaw pain and headaches. My dentist discovered I was grinding my teeth in my sleep. He prescribed a custom-made “occlusal guard,” or night guard. It’s a piece of plastic that I wear at night to protect my teeth. I was sure this was a strange, “extra” item that Medicaid wouldn’t cover. I was wrong. Because it was a prescribed treatment for a diagnosed medical condition (bruxism), it was considered “durable medical equipment” and was fully covered by my plan.
How Poor Vision Can Affect Your Life (And Why You Should Use Your Benefits)
I Thought I Was Clumsy; I Just Couldn’t See
For years, I thought I was just getting clumsy. I would trip on the curb or knock things over. My friend finally convinced me to get an eye exam, which was free with my Medicaid plan. It turned out my vision had gotten significantly worse. The moment I put on my new, free glasses, the world changed. The curb was sharp and clear. I felt more confident and safer just walking around. Using my vision benefit didn’t just help me read; it improved my quality of life and my safety in ways I never expected.
The Best Questions to Ask Your New Medicaid Dentist
The Interview I Held in the Dentist’s Chair
I was nervous about seeing a new dentist who accepted Medicaid. During my first exam, I asked a few key questions to gauge the quality of the practice. I asked, “What kind of preventative options do you recommend?” A good dentist will talk about more than just fillings. I also asked, “How do you handle dental emergencies for your Medicaid patients?” I wanted to know they had a plan. His thoughtful answers made me feel confident I was in the right place and that he saw me as a partner in my own health.
Can I Go to Any Dentist in an Emergency?
My Toothache Didn’t Care About Networks
I woke up on a Saturday with a massive, painful abscess. My regular dentist’s office was closed. I was in agony. I called my Medicaid plan’s 24/7 nurse advice line. She told me that for a true, undeniable dental emergency that involves pain and swelling, I was authorized to go to the nearest emergency dental clinic, even if they weren’t in my plan’s network. The key was that it had to be a true emergency. I was able to get the tooth drained and get on antibiotics that day.
How to Read Your Dental EOB (Explanation of Benefits)
The Paper That Proved I Owed Nothing
After my dental visit, I got an “Explanation of Benefits” (EOB) from my Medicaid dental plan. It looked like a bill, and for a second, I panicked. But I learned how to read it. It showed the date of my visit and the services the dentist performed. It listed the “Amount Billed” by the dentist, and then the “Amount Paid” by the plan. The most important column was at the end: “Patient Responsibility.” I was so relieved to see that magical number in that column: “$0.00.”
My Story: How Medicaid Saved My Teeth and My Confidence
From Pain and Shame to a Healthy Smile
For most of my adult life, I avoided smiling. My teeth were crooked, and I had several painful, broken molars. I just didn’t have the thousands of dollars it would take to fix them. Getting on Medicaid changed everything. Over the course of a year, my plan covered extractions, root canals, and even a partial denture. For the first time, I was out of pain. For the first time, I could eat comfortably. And for the first time, I could hold my head high and laugh without covering my mouth. Medicaid didn’t just save my teeth; it restored my dignity.
The #1 Reason People Don’t Use Their Medicaid Dental Benefits (And Why They’re Wrong)
The Fear That Costs You Your Teeth
The number one reason people on Medicaid don’t go to the dentist is fear. They’re afraid of being judged. They’re afraid the dentist will be in a rundown office. They’re afraid the work will be shoddy. They’re afraid they’ll be treated like a “Medicaid patient.” I had all those fears too. But I found a wonderful, private practice that treated me with incredible respect. My fear was costing me my health. Pushing past that fear and making the call was the best decision I ever made for my smile and my well-being.