Many people can’t afford to get a dental checkup without insurance. It may become challenging for patients on Medicaid because they have to find a Medicaid dentist – a dentist who accepts Medicaid.
Dental insurance can be a big help when you need expensive procedures like root canals or crowns. But if you don’t have insurance or aren’t covered yet, that doesn’t mean you should delay visits to the dentist. Dental care is essential and prevents more expensive problems down the road, and you have to make sure to get the most out of your visits without overpaying.
Since it can be hard to find a Medicaid dentist near me, it’s crucial to understand how the Medicaid program works and includes dental care. Following this, we’ll run you through some steps to help you find a Medicaid dentist in Broomfield, DICC.
What is Medicaid?
Medicaid is the nation’s public health insurance program for people who can’t afford medical care. It is a program that operates in every state and provides health care to certain categories of low-income people. Medicaid is funded by federal, state, and local governments.
The insurance program provides payment for a wide range of health care services, but not all services are covered in all states. The types of benefits covered under Medicaid vary by state. Some services must be provided to all enrollees in every state, and other services are optional. States have the option of limiting the number of optional benefits they offer, limiting eligibility for optional benefits, or charging an additional fee for optional benefits.
Does Medicaid Include Dental Care?
Dental benefits are optional under the Medicaid program. Each state determines which services it will cover under its Medicaid program. Dental benefits for adults are limited to emergency services in most states. In some states, only specific categories of adults – such as pregnant women or people with disabilities – can get dental care.
All states provide dental benefits for children covered by Medicaid. Dentists who treat children must follow the rules in their state about what services they can offer under their state’s Medicaid plan. So, if you have children on Medicaid and need dental care, the program will likely pay for it.
How Do States Determine Your Medicaid Dental Benefits?
Your dental care would vary depending on the state you live in. According to this comprehensive chart by the Center for Health Care Strategies, Inc., each state offers different dental benefits.
The benefits classified as “extensive” are pretty accommodating. In addition to covering preventative procedures like cleanings, diagnostic, and therapeutic care (fillings and x-rays), they may also cover treatments like extractions and crowns.
Some states provide “limited” care that only includes exams and fillings. While other states only offer emergency care that varies as per the emergency procedure.
However, many states may provide exceptional dental benefits for low-income, elderly, disabled, or pregnant.
How to Find a Medicaid Dentist Near Me?
Check out your state’s policy
As we mentioned above, each state’s policy regarding Medicaid dental care varies, and you’ll need to make sure your state provides the benefits you’re looking for. Every state offers different coverage for adults; hence it’s best to contact the Medicaid office near you or visit their official website to get the information you need.
It’s important to note that the restrictions in coverage are only for adults, and all states cover children’s dental needs as per the federal government.
You can also find a third-party program that provides dental benefits under Medicaid. If your state uses such a managed care program, they can provide you with a list of dentists nearby who can help you.
Choose a dental professional
After you make a list of dentists that accept Medicaid, it’s time to choose the best Medicaid dentist near me based on your needs. Do your research to narrow down the list and select a dentist that provides exactly the kind of services you need. A Medicaid dentist at DICC, Broomfield, will provide you with a thorough consultation and ensure you receive the best dental care. Moreover, the dental experts at DICC may also help you submit the charges for treatment to Medicaid.
Schedule an appointment
After narrowing down your options, contact the offices of the dentists you’d like to visit and schedule your appointment as per their availability. Inquire if they cover Medicaid or ask them to refer you to a dentist who does.
Next, when paying a visit, make sure you bring your insurance card to the dentist’s office and be prepared for some paperwork.
Contact the state Medicaid agency if you have trouble getting an appointment with your preferred dentist in Broomfield.
Compare benefits
Discuss any specific treatment you seek with your dentist during the examination, such as a filling or a crown. Don’t hesitate to ask them about the diagnosis, proposed treatment, and procedure cost.
Assess the cost of treatment against the benefits provided by Medicaid. You can discuss payment options with the dental practice if the cost exceeds what your Medicaid plan will cover. Some dental practices offer discounts or allow you to pay in installments.
Medicaid Dentist in Broomfield, DICC
Getting the best dental care is important to promote dental hygiene among the masses. Our dental experts at DICC take pride in covering dental care for adults under Medicaid to assist everyone and provide optimal care. Our dentists in Broomfield offer extensive dental procedures such as cleanings, fillings, restorative treatments, extractions, and crowns.
To know more about the dental benefits we offer, schedule an appointment today by calling us at (303) 466-2935. For info, get in touch at [email protected].