Pennsylvania faces a dental care crisis in rural areas, driven by limited coverage and a worsening workforce shortage.
Senate Republicans heard testimony that poor access affects overall health—causing school absences, nutrition issues, and costly ER visits.
The state has fewer than 7,500 dentists for more than 13 million residents, with rural areas seeing just 3.7 dentists per 10,000 people. Nearly a quarter of dentists are over 65, and experts say recovery from their retirement could take 15 years.
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