For the first time in more than 25 years, Kansas is significantly increasing its investment in Medicaid dental care. A newly approved $10 million boost in dental reimbursement rates, effective July 1, 2025, represents a critical move toward improving access to oral health services for thousands of Kansans.
While the new rates still fall short of parity with commercial insurance, advocates are celebrating this as a pivotal moment for the state’s dental care system.
“This increase is the result of strong collaboration across Kansas’ dental and public health communities,” said Tanya Dorf Brunner, executive director of Oral Health Kansas. “It’s a foundation we can build on as we continue working toward long-term solutions that make quality dental care accessible to every Kansan.”
Targeted Increases Based on Provider Input
The increase was shaped by a joint survey from Oral Health Kansas and the Kansas Dental Association, which gathered insights from more than 75 dental providers across the state. Their feedback helped identify which services would benefit most from rate adjustments:
- Exams: Increased by 50%
- Cleanings, scaling, and root planing: Increased by 35%
- X-rays and composite fillings: Increased by 20%
- All other services: Increased by 10%
These targeted adjustments are designed to incentivize preventive care and ensure providers are fairly compensated for essential services.
“Every rate matters,” added Tanya Dorf Brunner. “Our approach is about honoring all the services providers deliver, while giving extra weight to the ones that are most critical for building sustainable, preventive care.”
The full details of the rate changes are available through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment: FY2026 Dental Rate Increase.
A Win for Providers—and Patients
Currently, only about 30% of Kansas dentists participate in Medicaid. The hope is that this funding increase, paired with continued advocacy and provider support, will encourage more dental offices to join or remain in the program.
“This increase sends a strong message that Kansas values its dental providers and is committed to improving access to care,” said Kevin Robertson, executive director of the Kansas Dental Association. “We’re proud to have worked with so many dedicated partners to help make it happen.”
Building on Progress Through Pathways to Oral Health
Efforts like the Pathways to Oral Health initiative are working in tandem with the new rates to create a more inclusive, accessible dental care system. Backed by KDHE and in partnership with all three KanCare managed care organizations, Pathways to Oral Health offers practical tools for patients and providers alike.
Key features include:
- The My Dental Care Passport – a customizable resource for patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities to communicate needs and preferences to dental teams.
- Concierge-style Medicaid support – helping dental offices navigate the system and reduce administrative burdens.
Together, these steps represent a broader strategy to build a more sustainable, inclusive dental care network across Kansas.
To learn more about the Pathways to Oral Health initiative or to access resources, visit www.pathwaystooralhealth.org.
