27% of U.S. Adults Lack Dental Insurance, Survey Shows Need for Coverage Expansion

The 2024 State of Oral Health Equity in America survey reveals that approximately 27% of U.S. adults, equating to 72 million people, lack dental insurance, which is nearly three times higher than the percentage of adults without health insurance. This large-scale, nationally representative survey involved over 9,000 respondents to assess oral health coverage and disparities across the country. The findings underscore the critical need to expand dental coverage, particularly through enhancements to Medicare, Medicaid, and Affordable Care Act Marketplace plans. The survey highlights the connection between oral health and overall systemic health, noting that lack of dental insurance can elevate risks of systemic health issues even among those with medical insurance. These insights are pivotal for insurers, policymakers, and healthcare providers aiming to improve oral health equity and integrate dental care within broader health coverage strategies.