Tenncare Dental Insurance Benefits and Providers in Tennessee

TennCare dental insurance offers a range of benefits to eligible residents of Tennessee.

TennCare covers routine cleanings, exams, and X-rays for children and adults.

Adults can also get fillings, extractions, and root canals, but these services require prior authorization.

Children's dental services, including fluoride treatments and sealants, are also covered.

In Tennessee, there are several dental providers that participate in the TennCare network.

Some of these providers include Community Health Systems, Community Health Alliance, and BlueCare Tennessee.

These providers offer a range of services, including routine cleanings, fillings, and extractions.

Eligible residents can find a participating provider by visiting the TennCare website or calling the TennCare customer service number.

Tennessee's Medicaid Adult Benefits cover a range of essential services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions.

Adults enrolled in Medicaid can also receive dental benefits, including routine cleanings, fillings, and extractions.

Adults with a household income at or below 138% of the federal poverty level may be eligible for Medicaid in Tennessee.

Medicaid covers mental health services, including counseling and therapy sessions, which can be accessed through a primary care provider or a mental health specialist.

Medicaid also covers substance abuse treatment, including inpatient and outpatient services, as well as medication-assisted treatment.

Adults with disabilities may be eligible for Medicaid, which can provide a range of services, including home health care and personal care assistance.

TennCare dental insurance has a network of participating providers, including private dental offices and community clinics. These providers offer a range of services, from routine cleanings to complex oral surgery.

You can find a list of participating providers on the TennCare website or by contacting their customer service number. This will help you locate a dentist near you who accepts TennCare dental insurance.

Some providers may have limited availability or longer wait times, so it's a good idea to call ahead and confirm their schedule before your appointment.

Advocates hope to see more dentists accept state insurance, which is a crucial step in making dental care accessible to those who need it.

In Tennessee, 600,000 adult TennCare members can now receive regular dental exams, x-rays, cleanings, fillings, crowns, and dentures, among other services.

The state has taken steps to make this possible, including launching a "Find a Dentist" tool to help members find a dentist that accepts coverage near them.

Davidson County has 139 individual dentists accepting TennCare for adults, and 886 statewide, with more to be added.

Michele Johnson, executive director of the Tennessee Justice Center, is concerned that there may not be enough dentists to provide services to the newly covered adults.

Historically, government programs have not been lucrative for dentists, requiring the same amount of work but with lower pay and more administrative burden.

Fred Ward, CEO of Marquee Dental, notes that the newest iteration of TennCare has more attractive reimbursements than in the past and in other states.

Most dental insurance plans have a network of participating dentists who have agreed to accept the plan's terms and fees.

You can check if your dentist is in-network by calling your insurance provider's customer service number.

Some plans may have a larger network than others, but it's essential to verify your dentist's participation before scheduling an appointment.

In-network dentists typically offer lower out-of-pocket costs for services, which can save you money in the long run.

To find a participating dentist, you can search online or check your insurance provider's website for a list of participating providers in your area.

Gum disease is a common oral health issue that affects many people, especially those who don't practice good oral hygiene. According to the American Dental Association, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is the main culprit behind gum disease. It can build up on teeth and cause inflammation of the gums, also known as gingivitis.

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition that can lead to tooth loss. In fact, the article states that periodontitis affects nearly 50% of adults over 30.

Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and bacteria from teeth. The article suggests brushing teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day to maintain good oral hygiene.

Tennessee Medicaid, also known as TennCare, covers dental services, including cleanings and fillings, to help prevent and treat gum disease. This is especially important for low-income individuals and families who may not have access to regular dental care otherwise.