Senator Bernie Sanders, a longtime advocate for universal health care through Medicare, has set his sights on expanding dental coverage for all Americans.
In May, the Vermont Independent introduced the Comprehensive Dental Care Reform Act of 2024. This bill aims to extend dental coverage through Medicare, Medicaid, and the Veterans Administration. Currently before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, the legislation proposes federal funding to increase the number of dentists, dental hygienists, and dental therapists in the U.S. This would partly be achieved by training dental students through community-based dental residencies.
Senator Sanders recently discussed the nation’s dental care system with USA TODAY, explaining his push for broader coverage. Here are key excerpts from that conversation.
USA TODAY: The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, which you chair, recently held a hearing on dental care in the United States. Why are you highlighting this topic?
Sanders: The first thing we need to do is make it clear to Americans that dental care in this country is in crisis. Many people know our health care system is broken and outrageously expensive, leaving millions unable to afford insurance.
However, there’s less awareness about the state of dental care. This hearing aimed to change that. Dental care in America is extremely expensive. Many dentists do not accept Medicaid reimbursement due to low rates or other reasons. We lack sufficient dentists, especially in underserved areas. While there are plenty of dentists on Park Avenue in New York City, rural and low-income areas face significant shortages.
USA TODAY: How has the lack of dental care access affected vulnerable populations?
Sanders: The impact is severe. About 40% of American children have tooth decay by Kindergarten, which is shocking.
Nearly one in five seniors have lost all their natural teeth, and many cannot afford dentures. In Vermont, I’ve met people missing front teeth. Imagine trying to get a job without front teeth. Millions are in this situation. In the U.S., we have instances where volunteer dentists treat people who camp out or sleep overnight just to get their teeth extracted because they’ve been in pain for years. We need fundamental changes in our dental care system. I believe health care is a human right, and that includes dental care.
USA TODAY: For those with dental insurance, do you think it provides adequate coverage?
Sanders: Many people find their coverage insufficient for serious dental work like implants or root canals. Insurance often covers only a fraction of the cost. Additionally, the high cost of dental care is rarely discussed. When you visit a dentist, they might recommend multiple procedures. You agree, and then a week later, you’re hit with a $5,000 bill. We need to ask why dental care is so expensive, just as we question the high costs of general health care.