Traditional Medicare coverage excludes dental coverage despite research that shows the necessity of dental care increasing with age. Among adults, spending on dental services reaches its highest levels between the ages of 65 and 79. While some Medicare enrollees have supplemental dental coverage, only about 27 percent of Medicare enrollees' total dental costs are currently covered by insurance.
Dental health impacts overall health and Medicare enrollees could substantially benefit from expanding coverage to dental services.
The nonprofit Urban Institute is dedicated to elevating the debate on social and economic policy. For nearly five decades, Urban scholars have conducted research and offered evidence-based solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities across a rapidly urbanizing world. Their objective research helps expand opportunities for all, reduce hardship among the most vulnerable, and strengthen the effectiveness of the public sector. Visit the Urban Institute’s Health Policy Center for more information specific to its staff and its recent research.
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