Factors Contributing to Low Use of Dental Services by Low-Income Populations

While several factors contribute to the low use of dental services among low-income persons who have coverage for dental services, the major one is finding dentists to treat them. Some low-income people live in areas where dental providers are generally in short supply, but many others live in areas where dental care for the rest of the population is readily available.  Dentists generally cite low payment rates, administrative requirements, and patient issues such as frequently missed appointments as the reasons why they do not treat more Medicaid patients.  Although many states have taken action to address these concerns, use remains low.