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Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) reintroduced the bipartisan Increasing Access to Dental Insurance Act to expand access to private dental coverage for millions of Americans.

Currently, Americans are prohibited from purchasing dental coverage on the federal marketplace without also enrolling in a qualified health plan. This requirement has unnecessarily obstructed access to important dental coverage. This legislation would eliminate the prohibition, creating more competition in the marketplace and bringing access to affordable oral health services to more Americans.

“The health of the mouth is the window into an individual’s overall health, and dental care is absolutely critical for maintaining good health for the whole body. Lack of dental care is linked to many systemic health issues including heart disease and diabetes, but too many people cannot afford to go to the dentist and have the checkups and treatment they need,” Dingell said. “The Increasing Access to Dental Insurance Act will expand access to critical dental coverage through the federal marketplace to deliver more affordable oral health services that meet more Americans’ needs that aren’t being met right now.”

“Consistent, prophylactic dental care is crucial for robust oral health and hygiene,” said Dr. Miller-Meeks. “Our bipartisan bill is a commonsense measure to promote affordable dental insurance through the federal marketplace. As a physician, I will continue to push for policies that promote better health access and outcomes for Americans.”

States using state-based marketplaces have improved dental coverage rates by offering consumers dental plans independently of medical plans on the marketplace. This is an important option for people who have medical coverage from an employer or other source, but don’t have dental coverage. However, Americans in states using the federal marketplace don’t have this option.

Oral health affects more than just the mouth; individuals with dental coverage are significantly more likely to visit the dentist and receive care that prevents and treats common chronic medical conditions including diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease.

Groups and stakeholders supporting the bill include the American Association of Kidney Patients, American Council of Life Insurers, American Society of Nephrology, CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, Delta Dental Plans Association, Dialysis Patient Citizens, Families USA, Guardian Life, National Association of Dental Plans, National Kidney Foundation, Nonprofit Kidney Care Alliance, Principal Financial Group, Sun Life, and United Concordia Companies, Inc.