Where to look
- Your Medicaid or managed-care plan: call the member services number on your card or use the plan’s online provider directory.
- Your state Medicaid website: most list participating dental providers.
- InsureKidsNow.gov: a federal directory of dentists who see children with Medicaid and CHIP.
- Community health centers (FQHCs): most accept Medicaid and offer dental care.
- Dental school clinics: many accept Medicaid.
What Medicaid covers
- Children: dental care is a required benefit under Medicaid and CHIP.
- Adults: varies by state, from emergency-only to fairly comprehensive coverage.
Tips
- Call ahead and confirm the office accepts your specific plan and is taking new patients.
- Ask about wait times; ask to be put on a cancellation list.
Can’t find one? Send a free request or see free and low-cost dental care.
Children: what is covered
Under Medicaid's EPSDT benefit, children and young people under 21 are entitled to dental check-ups, cleanings, fluoride, sealants, fillings and medically necessary treatment. CHIP also includes dental coverage. If an office says something is "not covered" for your child, ask your plan to check.
Adults: check your state
Adult dental coverage is set by each state. Some cover only emergency extractions; others include cleanings, fillings and dentures. Your state Medicaid website or plan handbook lists what is included and whether there are yearly limits.
Questions to ask when you call
- "Do you accept [plan name] Medicaid, and are you taking new patients?"
- "How soon is the first available appointment?"
- "Will any part of my visit cost me anything?"
- "Can you put me on your cancellation list?"
In a dental emergency
Swelling of the face, a fever with tooth pain, or trouble swallowing or breathing needs urgent care. Go to an emergency room. For severe pain without those signs, call community health centers and dental schools first, since many keep same-day slots.
Can a dentist charge me extra if I have Medicaid?
A participating dentist generally cannot bill you for covered services beyond any set copay. Ask before treatment if anything is not covered.
