Dental Health: A Hidden Impact of the ACA

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has been a major topic of debate in the United States for many years. While the ACA has had a significant impact on health care coverage and costs, one aspect that often goes unnoticed is its impact on dental health.

Dental Coverage Under the ACA

The ACA does not mandate dental coverage as part of essential health benefits. This means that dental insurance is not included in the minimum coverage requirements for health insurance plans sold on the Health Insurance Marketplace.

As a result, many people who have health insurance through the ACA do not have dental coverage. This can be a significant problem, as dental care can be expensive. The average cost of a dental visit is around $100, and the cost of major dental procedures, such as root canals and crowns, can be much higher.

The Importance of Dental Health

Dental health is an important part of overall health. Poor dental health can lead to a variety of problems, including:

Pain and discomfort
Infection
Gum disease
Tooth decay
Loss of teeth

Dental problems can also affect a person’s overall health. For example, gum disease has been linked to heart disease and stroke.

How to Get Dental Coverage

If you do not have dental coverage through your health insurance plan, there are a few ways to get it:

Purchase a separate dental insurance plan. There are many different dental insurance plans available, so you can find one that fits your needs and budget.
Enroll in a dental savings plan. Dental savings plans are not insurance plans, but they can help you save money on dental care. These plans typically charge a monthly fee, and then you get discounts on dental services.
See a dentist who offers sliding scale fees. Some dentists offer sliding scale fees, which means that they charge less for their services based on your income.

Seek Help from a Licensed Agent

If you are having trouble finding affordable dental coverage, you can seek help from a licensed agent. Agents can help you compare different dental insurance plans and find the one that is right for you. They can also help you enroll in a dental savings plan or find a dentist who offers sliding scale fees.

Do not hesitate to reach out to a licensed agent today to learn more about your dental coverage options. Taking care of your dental health is an important part of taking care of your overall health.