Maine Pediatric Dentist Urges Action on Dental Care Delays

In Portland, Maine, pediatric dentist Mike Dowling is raising urgent concerns about the accessibility of dental care for children on MaineCare. On August 14, 2025, he highlighted a troubling reality: there is currently a year-long wait list for patients needing general anesthesia for dental procedures. This delay has left many children in distress, often living with untreated dental issues.

Dowling, who operates a dental practice in Yarmouth, treats numerous children enrolled in the MaineCare program. His insights reflect a broader crisis affecting pediatric dental health in the state. “There are kids right now who are living with a mouth full of abscessed teeth,” he stated, emphasizing the critical need for immediate action.

The root of the problem lies in the reimbursement rates for anesthesiology services under MaineCare. Dowling believes that an increase in these rates would enable dental providers to reduce the wait times significantly. He argues that better reimbursement could attract more practitioners to accept MaineCare patients, thereby alleviating the backlog of children needing care.

Calls for Change from Health Officials

The situation has garnered attention from various health officials and advocates who are calling on the Department of Health and Human Services to address this issue swiftly. The current reimbursement structure has been criticized for being insufficient to cover the costs associated with providing anesthesia for pediatric patients.

Dental professionals have long advocated for adjustments to these rates, stressing the importance of timely treatment for children’s dental health. Untreated dental issues can lead to serious complications, including infections and chronic pain, which can affect a child’s overall well-being and development.

Advocates argue that improving access to dental care is not just a matter of convenience but a fundamental health issue. Ensuring that children receive timely dental treatment is essential for their growth, self-esteem, and educational performance.

While some progress has been made in addressing these concerns, many believe that more robust measures are necessary to ensure that all children have access to essential dental care. The potential impact of these changes could be profound, providing relief for countless families struggling with the current system.

As the conversation continues, the hope is that the Department of Health and Human Services will recognize the urgency of this matter and take decisive action to enhance the reimbursement rates for anesthesia services. Doing so could create a more equitable dental care landscape for children across Maine, allowing them to receive the treatment they desperately need without the burden of lengthy wait times.

In conclusion, the call for urgent reform in Maine’s dental care system is clear. With children facing prolonged waits for necessary procedures, stakeholders are emphasizing the importance of immediate action to protect the health and well-being of young patients.