Medicaid Coverage of Dental Care for Pregnant Women

Despite the validated importance and safety of dental care during pregnancy, utilization of dental care by at-risk women is low, in large part, due to a lack of coverage for this population. This policy brief examines state Medicaid dental coverage for pregnant women and confirms that it is inadequate overall.  While states may elect adult dental coverage, few have specifically targeted a dental benefit for pregnant women.

NOTE: CDHP released a new report in September 2018 taking a fresh look at barriers to dental care in pregnancy and strategies to prioritize pregnant women's oral health. Find the policy brief, "Oral Health during Pregnancy," and a related infographic about hurdles to Medicaid dental care online here.