To amend title XIX of the Social Security Act to improve coverage of dental and oral health services for adults under Medicaid, and for other purposes.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · July 22, 2026
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
The Medicaid Dental Benefit Act of 2026 requires all state Medicaid programs to cover comprehensive dental and oral health services for adults starting January 1, 2027, including preventive care, restorative services, dentures, implants, and emergency dental treatment. The federal government will cover 100 percent of costs for these new dental benefits for the first three years, significantly reducing the financial burden on states. The bill also establishes new quality measurement and reporting requirements for states to track the effectiveness and equity of dental care, directs a comprehensive study of adult oral health access and disparities across the country, and funds outreach and education programs to help low-income adults understand and access dental coverage. This legislation aims to close a major gap in Medicaid coverage, as most states currently provide minimal or no dental benefits to working-age adults despite research showing strong connections between oral health and overall health outcomes.
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