NEVADA – Nevada Medicaid has expanded its dental services to cover adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, thanks to $2.5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act and a Federal Title 19 grant. This expansion addresses the lack of dental coverage for people with disabilities under Medicaid, despite the fact that nearly 60% of them rely on it for healthcare coverage.

Barriers to accessing dental care have led to oral health disparities, with individuals with disabilities having poorer oral hygiene and higher rates of tooth loss and periodontal disease. Sedation and other forms of dental care are often not available to them, and challenges can arise due to difficulty transferring from a wheelchair, filling out paperwork, or using certain toothbrushes.

Poor oral health can lead to physical and emotional problems, such as diabetes, hypertension, respiratory disease, and altered speech, and low self-esteem. 52 dentists have already joined the program since January, and eligible adults can receive up to $2,500 in annual benefits. To apply for Nevada Medicaid, visit Access Nevada or call 1-800-992-0900.

Credits: This is Reno

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