LANSING, Mich. (MIRS News) – Adult Medicaid recipients 21 and over will now be able to get root canals, crowns, gum care and deep teeth cleanings, under expanded dental coverage budgeted at $85.1 million, which was announced Monday, April 3 by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

The new coverage, which started April 1, will also include sealants. Currently, Medicaid covers X-rays, teeth cleanings, fillings, extractions and dentures, according to DHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel.

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The redesign was proposed during the Fiscal Year 2023 budget and the policy that boosted Medicaid payments went into effect Jan. 1. That allowed providers to be paid at 100% of the average commercial rate, which incentivized providers to treat Medicaid patients.

Michigan Dental Association President Dr. Vince Benivegna said there was no incentive prior to the change for dentists to treat Medicaid patients.

“Dentists would lose money by treating adult dental Medicaid patients. As small business owners this was not sustainable,” Benivegna said.

Michigan Association of Health Plans Executive Director Dominick Pallone hailed the move and said the association was fully behind it.

“This change will lead to more positive health outcomes for Michigan residents by ensuring that routine dental services are covered while also enhancing provider care coordination,” Pallone said.