Share of Cost Advisors · Checked September 30, 2026 · 5 min read
What adults get with Medi-Cal Dental
- Exams and X-rays
- Cleanings and fluoride
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)
- Fillings
- Root canals, front and back teeth
- Crowns
- Partial and full dentures, and relines
- Extractions and emergency care
- Sedation when medically necessary
Is there a yearly limit?
Adults 21 and older have an $1,800 yearly soft cap. It is “soft” because medically necessary care can go over it with approval. Pregnant people and residents of long-term care facilities are exempt.
How share of cost affects Medi-Cal Dental
If you have a share of cost, Medi-Cal Dental does not pay for care until you meet your share of cost that month. The dentist can collect the share of cost from you. This is why some people with a high share of cost see little benefit from Medi-Cal Dental. Estimate your share of cost.
2026 and 2027 budget changes
The state budget ends full adult dental coverage for adults 19 and older with unsatisfactory immigration status. That change was delayed to July 1, 2027. Nothing has been cut for citizens or qualified immigrants. Ask your county how it applies to you.
Medi-Cal dental insurance vs. a private dental plan
A private dental policy is separate from Medi-Cal Dental. It may be worth comparing if you have a share of cost, since an eligible premium can lower the income Medi-Cal counts, or if you want a dentist outside the Medi-Cal network. Read how dental insurance and share of cost fit together.
Common questions
Is Medi-Cal Dental the same as dental insurance?
Medi-Cal Dental is the dental benefit that comes with full-scope Medi-Cal. It works like dental insurance but is a state benefit, not a private policy, and it is subject to your share of cost.
Does Medi-Cal cover dental for adults?
Yes. Medi-Cal Dental covers adults for exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals, crowns, dentures, extractions, and emergency care.
Is there a Medi-Cal dental limit?
Adults 21 and older have an $1,800 yearly soft cap. Medically necessary care can exceed it with approval.
Does Medi-Cal Dental work if I have a share of cost?
Only after you meet your share of cost for that month. Until then, the dentist can bill you.
Is private dental insurance the same as Medi-Cal Dental?
No. A private dental policy is separate insurance. Medi-Cal Dental is a state benefit. Check your existing coverage before choosing another policy.
Check the sources
Start with the official rules. Ask your county how they apply to you.