28% of middle-aged Americans don't have dental coverage: 5 things to know

Results from the University of Michigan National Poll on healthy aging found 28 percent of middle-aged Americans don't have dental coverage.

Here are five things to know:

1. Of those surveyed, ages 50 to 64 years old, 56 percent said they only seek care for serious dental problems. And around 30 percent reported dental problems have caused pain, difficult eating, missed work or health problems in the past two years.

2. Looking at the future, 51 percent said they didn't know how they will get dental insurance coverage after they turn 65.

3. Another 13 percent expect to count on Medicare or Medicaid to cover their oral care needs after the age of 65. However, traditional Medicare doesn't cover routine dental care and Medicaid dental coverage is limited.

4. In addition, 40 percent of respondents don't get regular cleanings or other preventative care to help prevent dental problems.

5. The poll also found 33 percent of middle-aged Americans were embarrassed by the condition of their teeth.

More articles on dental:
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Weave Communications completes $17M Series B-1 funding: 4 things to know
Western Dental acquires 14 Calif. offices: 5 key points

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