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Bill

Bill

SB 120

Health Insurance - Required Benefits for Dental Preventive Care - Frequency Limitation Interval (Healthy Moms and Family Smiles Act)

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Arthur Ellis

Maryland bill mandates health insurers cover all recommended dental preventive care without frequency limits or cost-sharing to improve oral health access.

Hearing 2/04 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · SB 120

Legislative bill overview

SB 120 would require health insurance plans in Maryland to cover dental preventive care services—such as cleanings, exams, and X-rays—without frequency limitations or cost-sharing barriers. The bill aims to expand access to preventive dental care by mandating coverage for these services at intervals recommended by dental professionals rather than restrictive insurance plan limits.

Why is this important

Preventive dental care reduces the incidence of tooth decay, gum disease, and related health complications that can lead to more costly emergency or restorative procedures. Removing frequency caps and out-of-pocket costs may increase access to preventive services, particularly for lower-income individuals, potentially improving oral health outcomes and reducing overall healthcare costs in the long term.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance premium increases: Insurers may argue that mandating comprehensive preventive coverage without limitations will increase premiums for policyholders, offsetting any savings from prevention
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: Unclear which specific preventive services are included or how "recommended intervals" are determined could lead to disputes between insurers and providers over what must be covered
  • Cost-benefit analysis: Questions about whether eliminating all frequency restrictions is fiscally prudent or if some reasonable limits better balance access with affordability and sustainability

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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