Access to Medicaid Dentists

Updated April 10. 2025

Those on Medicaid often have difficulty locating a dentist who accepts their coverage. Although it can decrease emergency room visits for dental issues, many dentists don’t touch it. Some dentists find it flawed, but accepting it could benefit their practice. 

Why many dentists don’t accept Medicaid

Despite the improvements to Medicaid, according to the ADA, only 1/3 of dentists accept it.  This results in patients who are unable to obtain coverage for treatments and services. Many dentists do not accept Medicaid because of its low reimbursement rates and complex claims processes. Dental clinic employees must devote more time to Medicaid credentialing and claims than to private insurance claims.

Supply and demand

While many states have added dental benefits under Medicaid, there has been a surge in demand. Millions of low-income adults gained dental coverage due to the Affordable Care Act. However, provider shortages, especially in rural and urban areas, continue to limit access. In some cases, even patients who previously had access to care are now competing with newly eligible patients, making it harder for everyone to get an appointment.

How eAssist can help

Despite the challenges of working with Medicaid, there are support solutions that can ease the burden. At eAssist, we offer outsourced dental billing services that take the burden of Medicaid claims off your in-office team. By handling the most time-consuming and complex parts of dental billing, we allow your staff to focus on delivering excellent patient care, not paperwork. Schedule a consultation to learn more.

Sandy Odle

Co-Founder and CXO, eAssist

Sandy Odle is the Co-Founder and CXO of eAssist Dental Solutions, where she has played a key role in shaping the company’s business and marketing strategies, leading to record growth and national recognition on the Inc. 500 and Utah Top 100 lists. A passionate social entrepreneur, Sandy believes that business is about building meaningful connections and creating personalized solutions that truly meet customer needs. Her relentless commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences is at the heart of eAssist’s mission. Drawing on the discipline and attention to detail honed during her early career as a ballet dancer, Sandy brings a unique blend of creativity, precision, and work ethic to everything she does.