A new national survey reveals America's significant, unmet need for dental care at a time when millions of families are shopping for medical/dental coverage on newly created state marketplaces. One out of three adults say that either they or a family member have a toothache or some other problem with their teeth or gums "that needs to be addressed."
Other findings from the Children's Dental Health Project survey are below:
- The need for affordable dental coverage is amplified by the survey, as nearly four out of 10 adults (39%) report delaying a dental visit over the past 12 months because of expected out-of-pocket costs.
- Many Americans may not realize that children's dental coverage can be purchased through the state marketplaces. In the survey, only 22% of Americans correctly identify dental services for children as one of the 10 "essential health benefits" identified in the Affordable Care Act.
RELATED:Many uninsured Americans have tried healthcare exchange sites
The survey of 1,000 adults was sponsored by the Children's Dental Health Project, an independent nonprofit based in Washington, D.C. A summary of the survey results includes the survey methodology. View or share our new infographic here.
