Policy & Advocacy 

Protecting Community Water Fluoridation

More than 75 years of research and over 7,000 studies demonstrate that, at appropriate levels, community water fluoridation (CWF) is safe and essential in preventing tooth decay — especially for millions of Americans without dental insurance, who can’t afford care or live far from a dental provider. Leading health organizations support CWF, including the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Preventing cavities with CWF saves billions of dollars in treating cavities. 

Advocating for Veteran Oral Health

More than 80% of US veterans are not eligible for dental benefits through the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) despite that veterans have consistently higher rates of tooth decay, gum disease, and missing teeth compared to nonveterans. Lack of dental care among veterans leads to increased risk of chronic disease and financial strain from out-of-pocket expenses. By broadening eligibility for dental care through the VA, policymakers can improve health and quality of life for those who have served our country.

Strengthening Adult Dental Benefits in Medicaid

Medicaid is a key source of health care coverage for nearly 80 million people in the US. Because adult dental benefits are optional in state Medicaid plans, millions cannot get the dental care they need, or they resort to more costly care in a hospital emergency department — ED visits for non-traumatic dental conditions cost nearly $4 billion annually. Comprehensive dental benefits for all adults enrolled in Medicaid can improve health outcomes, reduce health care spending, and increase employment opportunities. Explore the Medicaid Adult Dental Coverage Checker to find out what coverage is available in your state. 

Adding a Dental Benefit to Medicare

Maintaining oral health is especially important as we age — poor oral health is linked to diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Yet standard Medicare, the insurance program that millions of older people in the US rely on, does not provide dental coverage, leaving approximately one third (31%) of participants paying out-of-pocket or without care. Including dental coverage for all Medicare enrollees has the potential to save the health care system an estimated $42 billion per year treating chronic diseases and improve the overall health of older adults.

$9.8B

Removing fluoride from drinking water would lead to an estimated $9.8 billion in added health care costs.

80M

80 million people rely on Medicaid for their health care.