Access to adequate dental care remains one of the most pressing unmet health care needs for millions of children and adults with special health care needs in the US. Together, we can change this.

Based on your direct feedback, Delta Dental of Kansas is proud to introduce the Special Health Care Needs Benefit — an enhanced plan design for employer-sponsored plans. This benefit is designed to remove barriers and deliver compassionate, comprehensive care to patients with special health care needs*.

Beginning January 1, 2026, all eligible Delta Dental of Kansas members on an employer-sponsored, fully-insured dental plan will have access to this new benefit.

Expanded Benefits Include:

• Exams - Additional visits are covered, if needed, to help patients understand what to expect before treatment (Procedure Codes: D0120, D0145, D0150, D0160 and D0180)
• Cleanings - Up to four dental cleanings in a benefit period (Procedure codes: D1110, D1120, D4346, D4355 and D4910)
• Anesthesia - Covered when necessary to provide dental care (Procedure codes: D9222, D9223, D9239, D9243)
• Treatment Delivery Modifications - Coverage for modifications to safely deliver care to patients with sensory sensitivities, behavioral challenges, severe anxiety or other barriers (Procedure Code: D9997)

Supporting Your Care with Education

We know that caring for patients with special health care needs can require additional training and expertise. That’s why we are partnering with Penn Dental Medicine to offer a free education series focused on oral health care for individuals with disabilities. Visit www.dental.upenn.edu/disabilitiescare to learn more.

How Can My Patients Use This Benefit?

Beginning January 1, 2026, you can verify with us that a patient is covered under this benefit. When submitting a claim for this benefit, please include procedure code D9997 on the claim.

We deeply value your partnership and dedication to providing compassionate care. Together, we are advancing oral health, breaking down barriers and innovating to serve our most vulnerable community members.

Thank you for helping us make a meaningful difference.

*According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, special health care needs include any physical, developmental, mental, sensory, behavioral, cognitive or emotional impairment or limiting condition that requires medical management, health care intervention and/or use of specialized services or programs. The condition may be congenital, developmental, or acquired through disease, trauma, or environmental cause and may impose limitations in performing daily self-maintenance activities or substantial limitations in a major life activity.