Put Teeth in Medicare

Oral health issues are
an important part of
improving the Wellbeing of Seniors.
The Surgeon General’s 2000 report Oral Health in America indicated that:

• 23% of those age 65 to 74 have severe gum disease;

• Oral and pharyngeal cancers are diagnosed in about

30,000 Americans annually;

• Oral disease has social impact on the elderly, affecting

life functions (e.g., eating and digestion);

• Nursing homes and other long-term care institutions

have limited capacity to deliver needed oral health

services;

• The frail elderly suffer devastating oral health side

effects from the use of multiple medications and treatments

they receive for other diseases, particularly

immuno-suppressant and radiation treatment.

It is time to put Teeth in Medicare:  Dentistry should be a covered benefit under the Medicare Program.

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PUT TEETH INTO MEDICARE
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