The dental safety net is a crucial component of the oral health care delivery system providing needed care for vulnerable populations. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are an important part of the dental safety net and serve underserved communities, delivering care to all patients, regardless of income or insurance status. Staffing levels, types of services reimbursed through Medicaid, and funding streams all impact oral health service provision at FQHCs.

This article explores changes in oral health services from 2012 to 2021, and identifies the key factors influencing the number of different types of services directly provided by FQHCs.

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