Orthodontics under Medicare and Medicaid

Compliance by state-subsidized and self-pay orthodontic patients

“…10 In Tennessee, the Salzmann index currently is used to quantify the severity of the malocclusion, and a score of at least 28 points typically qualifies a person for Medicaidcovered orthodontic treatment (in addition to verification of financial need). 6,10 Each prospective Medicaid patient is reviewed individually. The process involves submitting a Salzmann index form, facial and intraoral photographs, and panoramic and cephalometric radiographs.…”

“…4 In 1966, a task force formed through the American Dental Association recommended that treatment of malocclusions should be included as part of covered treatment services for certain people. 6 The next year, 1967, dental care, including orthodontic treatment for handicapping malocclusions, was made available to Medicaid-eligible citizens under 21 years of age. Treatment of these qualified minors is considered "medically necessary."…”

Comparison of Orthodontic Medicaid Funding in the United States 2006 to 2015

“…The Social Security Act was signed by President Lyndon Johnson in 1965. Title XIX of the Act, commonly known as Medicaid 1965 ( 2 ), was developed to provide healthcare coverage to the medically indigent. Title XIX listed certain medical services that states could fund with federal sharing.…”

“…Title XIX listed certain medical services that states could fund with federal sharing. Orthodontics, although not specifically listed, was included with dental care ( 2 ). The Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Program (EPSDT), established in 1967, is a component of Medicaid that provides preventive services and treatment for children and mandates access to orthodontic treatment for Medicaid eligible patients ( 3 ).…”

Implant versus Nance holding arch anchorage during maxillary canine retraction

“…Anchorage in orthodontics is the most important factor that determines the treatment and result 1 . Salzmann(1966) 2 , stated that "regardless of the skill one may possess in the space closure following the extraction of the teeth, the teeth in the posterior buccal segment will be displaced mesially to some extent".…”