— (09/04/2013) Nevada is reviewing its policies on dental restoration services. Currently, Nevada provides dental services “only when a dental disability exists which impedes the ability to work or interferes with maintaining an occupation.” We would like to know if other States have specific policies for determining eligibility based on a dental impairment being the sole disability (no other qualifying disabilities exist). Also — what specific guidelines other States may have for providing dental restoration services, including what services are generally excluded.

From Lynn Ritter, Division of Blind Services, Florida:

We do not have a specific policy. We provide dental if the condition causes cosmetic problems severe enough to prevent an individual from obtaining a job which involves serving the public or will cause loss of job unless corrected; results in toxic poisons which cause physical symptoms in other parts of the body or aggravates an already existing disability or is an acute dental condition that interferes with employment and/or the provision of other services.

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From Pamela Brauchli, OVR:

PA does not have a sole dental policy. It’s part of our physical restoration policy.

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From Michael Shoemaker, Utah State Office of Rehabilitation:

Hello, Jan, Below is Utah’s Vocational Rehabilitation policy regarding dental services from Chapter 14 of our Client Services Manual.

“Dental Restoration: The VR Counselor may determine that dental restoration is appropriate if the condition of the teeth and gums contributes to, or is a result of a physical or mental impairment which, for the individual, constitutes a significant impediment to employment. The VR Counselor determines that the condition is stable and remediable within a reasonable period of time, and the client meets financial need criteria. Dental restoration is appropriate when it will enable the client to achieve the employment outcome listed in the IPE. It is not within the scope of USOR to undertake a program of general dental care. However, it does assume the responsibility for correcting dental difficulties which are impediments to employment, and those closely associated with other impairments that have resulted, or are likely to result in an impediment to employment. Dental services must These services need to be included incorporated in the IPE before they can be authorized. Dental restoration cases requiring extensive crown and bridge work, root canal procedures, expensive capping and other out-of-the-ordinary procedures will be referred to the DRRS Dental Consultant through the District Director or Field Service Director. Unusual cases i.e. TMJ, oral surgery, implants, etc, forward client record through the Field Service Director. Inter-Current Dental Problems: During the rehabilitation process, a client may contact the VR Counselor because of dental problems. Preventative and standard dental work or filling of teeth is not the responsibility of USOR unless such restoration is essential in achieving an employment outcome. In the event that a client has an acute dental problem which prevents the continuation of a rehabilitation program, the VR Counselor may authorize dental care. Exceptions: In the event that an eligible individual’s dental health is of such a nature as to be causing pain, suffering, and other health problems that threaten progress towards an employment outcome, the VR Counselor may justify providing immediate emergency dental care to stabilize the condition and relieve pain.”

Posted in: Policies