Here are four dental industry updates in Maine from 2026:
1. Maine Gov. Janet Mills signed legislation April 15 that increases the reimbursement rate for general anesthesia given during dental procedures. The law increases the reimbursement rate from $151 to $203 for every 15 minutes a patient is under general anesthesia.
2. Maine enacted a bill that would expand the scope of practice for independent dental hygienists. LD 2030 aims to expand access to oral healthcare in the state by allowing independent hygienists to administer local anesthesia and nitrous oxide analgesia.
3. Adult Medicaid recipients in Maine continue to struggle with accessing dental care despite the state expanding coverage four years ago. Thirty percent of the state’s population is enrolled in Medicaid, but face long wait times or travel times for appointments due to the shortage of dentists in the program. Although the state saw an influx of dentists between 2014 and 2024, only 32% of the state’s general dentists accept Medicaid, with even fewer specialists enrolled in the program. The Office of MaineCare Services has decided to begin its dental rate redetermination process a year early in an effort to address the issue.
4. Mid-Maine Dental Hygiene opened its doors in Milo, Maine, in February. The practice is led by Darcy Burgess, an independent hygienist with more than 20 years of experience. Services offered include preventive cleanings, periodontal therapy and maintenance, fluoride treatments, whitening and oral health assessments.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place September 14-15 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.
