Fewer adults in Mississippi visit the dentist compared to other states. Oral health among children is also declining, with a large percentage of Mississippi’s children suffering from tooth decay and other dental issues – higher than the national average. These numbers show that families across our state are struggling to get the care they need, and it’s time for change.
Unfortunately, Mississippi dental insurance plans are making this problem worse. Dentists care about their patients and oppose any unfair practices like padding insurers bottom lines that limit patients’ access to the quality care they need.
More for Your Smile is a coalition of patients, dentists and oral health advocates who want to improve dental insurance benefits in Mississippi.
THE ISSUES
Mississippi’s dental insurance system is failing patients.
In Mississippi, dental insurance plans are not required to spend any specific amount of your premium on actual dental care. Premium dollars are instead spent on executive salaries, corporate profits, bonuses and administrative costs, not on patient care. Meanwhile, dental insurance executives’ compensation and profits continue to rise — while patients struggle with insufficient coverage.
This lack of accountability leaves many patients forced to delay or skip necessary treatments. At the end of the year, Mississippi families are often put in the difficult position of either rushing to use their remaining dental benefits or losing them altogether. Patients should be able to use the benefits they’ve paid for without an expiration date.
It’s not fair, and it’s not right. No one should have to delay treatment or suffer because their insurance prioritizes profits over their health.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
It’s time for Mississippi’s dental benefits to work for patients, not for corporate executives.
More Transparency
We believe you have the right to know where your dental insurance premiums go
More Accountability
Dental insurance companies should be held responsible for how they spend your money
More Value for Patients
Your hard earned money should directly benefit your care.
More for Your Smile Mississippi is advocating for patient-centered solutions.
Are you ready to help make a difference?
Act now!
In a minute or less, you can make a real difference! Contact your lawmakers and urge them to support dental insurance reform policies.
