Summary
n Dentistry has been authorized in general terms by
various statutes but seldom have funds been
earmarked specifically for dental services.
n Before 1965 states received little federal support
for dental services, except for funds provide
through maternal and child health or crippled
children’s programs.  Although Social Security
authorized other public assistance funds that
could be used for dental services, these were used
principally to provide health services for the
elderly.