LOS ANGELES, Calif — California’s full-scope dental benefits for undocumented Medi-Cal recipients, which were set to expire July 1, have been extended for one full year.
The extension comes after the California Legislature and Governor Gavin Newsom reached an agreement on the state’s 2026–2027 fiscal year budget. Newsom signed the budget on June 29.
The California Department of Health Care Services — DHCS — had previously announced that, due to budget cuts and other factors, adult Medi-Cal beneficiaries age 19 and older who did not meet the federal standard for Satisfactory Immigration Status — SIS — would lose full-scope benefits beginning July 1. They would then be covered only for emergency services.
Eligibility requirements
Under the revised budget, however, undocumented immigrants will be able to continue receiving the same level of dental care through July 1, 2027. Lawful permanent residents subject to the five-year waiting period after receiving green cards can also avail of full-scope dental benefits. Eligibility is limited to adults who were enrolled in Medi-Cal before Jan. 1, 2026.
Full-scope Medi-Cal dental benefits include oral exams, X-rays, teeth cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, root canals, crowns, gum treatment, periodontal maintenance, full or partial dentures, orthodontic treatment for children who qualify, and emergency dental care.
More than 15 million California residents were enrolled in Medi-Cal’s dental program, as of November 2022.
Renewal process
To maintain existing benefits, Medi-Cal members must complete the renewal process by the deadline, which varies based on the individual. Beneficiaries should carefully review renewal notices sent by their county social services office and submit requested documents within the required time frame.
Even if coverage is discontinued because renewal documents were not submitted on time or required paperwork was missing, full-scope benefits can generally be restored if the necessary steps are completed within 90 days. After that period, reinstatement may become difficult, and some adults affected by immigration-related eligibility restrictions may qualify only for emergency or limited Medi-Cal benefits.
Preventive care is covered
James Ahn, director of Kheir Clinic’s Patient Resources Department, said affected Medi-Cal members should use the extension period to receive needed preventive and restorative dental care. The Kheir Clinic is a nonprofit health care organization in Koreatown, Los Angeles.
“It is important for eligible Medi-Cal members to receive necessary preventive and treatment-related dental care in advance while full-scope benefits remain available,” Ahn told American Community Media.
Kheir Clinic operates two dental clinics serving Medi-Cal patients in the Koreatown area, providing preventive, diagnostic and treatment services, including regular checkups, cleanings and fillings. The clinic also provides support for immigrant patients in five languages: English, Korean, Spanish, Bengali and Thai.
Check for eligibility errors
Some Medi-Cal members have recently experienced eligibility review errors during the renewal process. This results in benefits being incorrectly changed from full-scope coverage to limited benefits, said Ahn. He urged beneficiaries to keep their Medi-Cal contact information — including address, phone number and email — up to date so they do not miss important notices.
People seeking assistance are advised to bring any notices from their local county Department of Public Social Services, Medi-Cal application or renewal documents, and proof of income.
More information about Medi-Cal dental benefits is available on the California DHCS Medi-Cal Dental website.
