Tools for policymakers

The ADA Health Policy Institute compiled a number of useful tools for policymakers focused on improving the oral health care system.

Oral Health Disparities Senate Testimony

In March 2023, HPI's Chief Economist and Vice President Marko Vujicic delivered testimony before the Senate Finance Committee's session: An Oral Health Crisis: Identifying and Addressing Oral Health Disparities.

The testimony (PDF) covers trends and implications of shortcomings in Medicaid coverage for dental care.

Medicaid Reimbursement Rates for Child and Adult Dental Care Services

HPI compared Medicaid reimbursement rates to private dental insurance reimbursement rates. Data include all 50 states and the District of Columbia for child and adult dental services.

See how your state compares. (PDF)

Medicaid Adult Dental Coverage Checker

HPI partnered with the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health in the development of the Medicaid Adult Dental Coverage Checker.

Updated in 2023, the Coverage Checker is an interactive tool that identifies where each state’s Medicaid adult dental benefits package falls on a continuum from "no dental benefits" to "extensive benefits." The currently available data reflect 2022 coverage levels. Additional data will be released to track trends over time.

Oral Health and Well-Being in Your State

HPI prepared at-a-glance reports on self-reported oral health and well-being, attitudes toward oral health, and barriers to dental care for adults at the state and national levels.

See national results and request your state's infographic. (PDF)

Projecting the Supply of Practicing Dentists

HPI developed a workforce projection model to estimate the future supply of dentists in the United States as well as in specific states. The model accounts for expected economic downturns and inflows, outflows, and shifts in the age and gender composition of the dental workforce.

See the analysis for the U.S. (PDF)

Contact HPI to inquire about customizing this analysis for your state.

Assessing the Accuracy of Medicaid Provider Lists

The Connecticut Dental Health Partnership and the United Way of Connecticut collaborated on a telephone mystery shopper survey to assess the validity of Medicaid dental care provider lists for HUSKY (i.e., Medicaid) recipients. This survey is an excellent resource for state policymakers and can be replicated in other states.

See the full report (PDF) or contact HPI for more information about this program.