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Having trouble covering the costs of dental care? Thankfully, in 2024, free dental care initiatives are accessible for individuals meeting specific income criteria. These programs provide a range of services, particularly for those enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid.
No matter your age, you can keep your gums and teeth healthy, strong and pain-free. As an older adult, you are prone to gum disease and other oral health problems, but by brushing twice a day, flossing daily and seeing your dentist regularly, you can lower your risk. Medi‑Cal will pay up to $1,800 in a year for covered dental services. You may qualify for no yearly limit. Even if you have Medicare or Medicare Advantage, Medi-Cal can cover dental benefits not covered by Medicare.
A Healthy Smile Never Gets Old!
The Medi-Cal program provides dental coverage for seniors.
How to Find and Pay for Dental Care
Smile, your Medi-Cal benefits include dental coverage! The Medi-Cal program offers many benefits to members including covered dental services. Even if you have Medicare or Medicare Advantage, Medi-Cal can cover dental benefits not covered by Medicare.
How do I apply for Medi-Cal?
You do not need to apply separately for dental coverage. It is already a part of the Medi-Cal program.
How do I find a dentist that accepts Medi-Cal?
Visit SmileCalifornia.org to find a dentist that accepts Medi-Cal near you or call 1-800-322-6384.
How do I pay for dental care?
As a Medi-Cal member, your benefits include dental coverage at little or no cost to you!
You are covered for these services:
- Dental exams (every 12 months)
- Teeth cleaning (every 12 months)
- Scaling and root planing
- Fluoride varnish (every 12 months)
- X-rays
- Fillings
- Crowns*
- Root canals
- Partial and full dentures
- Denture relines
- Tooth removal
- Emergency services
*Crowns on molars or premolars (back teeth) may be covered in some cases.
Visit SmileCalifornia.org or call 1-800-322-6384 for more information about how to find a Medi-Cal Dentist near you. The call is free. Medi-Cal Dental representatives are available to assist you from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
For information on how to apply for Medi-Cal, please visit CoveredCA.com or you can call 1-800-300-1506.
Aging and Dental Health
As we age, we are more prone to developing oral health problems. Here are some common dental problems you may face as you age:
Tooth Decay
- Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth. It may cause cavities or even tooth loss.
Gum Disease
- Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissue that supports the teeth.
Tooth Loss
- Tooth loss is a process in which one or more teeth come loose and fall out. Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss.
Receding Gums
- Receding gums is when your gums pull back from the tooth surface, exposing the root surfaces of your teeth. This leaves the teeth at risk of decay, infection, and loss.
Don’t Miss Your Dental Visit
Regular dental visits are important to prevent problems. Dentists check for oral health problems, some that might not even be noticeable. Check-ups can help find cavities, gum disease, and other problems before they lead to more serious issues like pain, infection, and tooth loss.
Dental visits are covered for Medi-Cal members. Find a dentist accepting new patients at SmileCalifornia.org.
Here are a few more important tips:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth at least once a day.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to cavities.
- Limit alcohol intake and avoid all forms of tobacco use, which can lead to stained teeth, bad breath, and can cause cancer.
- Use your Medi-Cal dental benefit and see your dentist yearly.
Does your smile need a ride to the dentist?
To get transportation to your next dental appointment, call the Telephone Service Center phone line at 1-800-322-6384. SmileCalifornia.org