DentaQuest to Continue Management of Oral Health Care for Virginia Medicaid Recipients Under New Contract

May 16, 2023 —The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) recently awarded DentaQuest, part of Sun Life U.S. and the nation’s second largest dental benefits administrator a four-year contract to continue as the dental benefits administrator for Medicaid-enrolled adults and children statewide. DentaQuest, which has covered Medicaid enrollees in Virginia for the past 18 years, is providing more than 2 million people with Medicaid dental benefits that cover a range of preventive and restorative care. Operations under the new contract will begin on July 1, 2023, and the contract includes the option for four one-year renewals.

“DentaQuest is pleased to continue as Virginia’s dental managed care provider,” said Steve Pollock, president of DentaQuest. “Virginia has worked diligently to expand access to oral health care across the state and we’re proud to be part of the solution. This is a critical time for the program which is in its second year supporting comprehensive dental benefits for adults on Medicaid and we are grateful to have such a strong partner in DMAS to ensure the program’s success. Oral health is overall health and as our partnership continues, we look forward to ensuring access to dental care to those most in need.”

In alignment with the state’s goals, DentaQuest is specifically focused on helping reduce the number of missed appointments, establishing a dental home – similar to a primary care provider – for all Medicaid members, and assisting patients through its case management program that helps connect members with the resources they need to achieve optimal health through one-on-one consultations. 

Additionally, DentaQuest will continue to support efforts to recruit Virginia dentists and dental specialists for the Medicaid network.

For more information on dental benefits available to Virginia Medicaid enrollees, visit our Virginia Medicaid page.