New Study Shows VA is Lacking in Dental Care - WVVA TV Bluefield Beckley WV News, Weather and Sports

New Study Shows VA is Lacking in Dental Care

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CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - A new study says many Virginians don't have access to dental care because of costs and a lack of dentists.

The study by two University of Virginia economists says cost is the greatest barrier. Those least likely to visit a dentist are low-income residents without insurance or who have low-cost public health care.

According to the study, more than 15 percent of Virginia's population lives in areas designated by the federal government as dental Health Professional Shortage Areas.

The study recommends allowing dental hygienists to offer fluoride varnish and routine cleaning without a dentist's supervision. It says that would expand access to care at a low cost. Dental hygienists also could identify patients who need additional care and refer them to a dentist.

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