Program Updates

Medi-Cal Dental Benefit Changes

DHCS, in partnership with Smile, California, is raising awareness about Medi-Cal Dental benefit changes taking effect on July 1, 2026. On that date, adult members aged 19 and older who currently receive full‑scope benefits, but do not meet federal immigration status requirements, will no longer receive full-scope dental benefits and will transition to emergency-only dental coverage. Some groups will still receive full dental benefits, even if they do not qualify for federally funded full‑scope Medi-Cal, including individuals under age 19, people who are pregnant, including one year postpartum, and former foster youth under age 26 who were in foster care on their 18th birthday. Learn more about the changes.

To support access to care, Smile, California will host Mobile Dental Van events throughout 2026. The first event was held in San Benito County on April 21–22, to be followed by additional stops in Calaveras, Del Norte, Glenn, Lassen, and Mariposa counties. These events offer no‑cost preventive services, referrals, and onsite staff to answer questions about Medi-Cal dental coverage and the July 1 changes. Families may call 1‑888‑585‑3368 to schedule an appointment, pre‑register, and complete consent forms. Additionally, partners and providers can download bilingual outreach materials from the Medi‑Cal Dental Benefit Changes webpage and are encouraged to share the Find‑a‑Dentist tool to help members locate care. Additional details about who is affected can be found on the Medi-Cal Changes webpage.

Medi-Cal Dental Benefit Changes - Frequently Asked Questions