The SMILES Act would require Medicaid to cover dental services including dental cleanings, exams, X-rays, fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns, dentures and emergency dental care.
According to state Sen. Shevrin Jones, who filed the bill, Florida ranks 49th for Medicaid reimbursement rates, paying 42% of the average fees charged by dentists.
Currently, the Florida Medicaid program only covers emergency dental work and services to prepare for dentures for adults.
If passed, the bill would take effect July 1.
Mr. Jones filed SB 1048, and state Reps. Marie Woodson and Angie Nixon are set to file HB 975, the companion bill, the report said.
