For certain adult members, the Medi-Cal dental benefit changes previously expected in 2026 have been delayed until July 1, 2027. Learn more.

Medi-Cal Dental Coverage Changes Starting July 1, 2027

Medi-Cal provides free or low-cost health coverage for eligible people who live in California.

Starting July 1, 2027, some Medi-Cal dental benefits will change for certain adult members based on immigration status. Visit the links below to learn more.

Medi-Cal Adult Expansion

Medi-Cal provides free or low-cost health coverage for eligible people who live in California. As of January 1, 2024, a new law in California gives full Medi-Cal benefits to adults age 26 to 49, regardless of immigration status. All other Medi-Cal eligibility rules will still apply.

Full Medi-Cal benefits cover vital services such as doctor visits, dental care, vaccines, and mental health care that can help you and your family stay healthy. Even if you’ve been denied full Medi-Cal recently, you could be eligible now.

Starting July 1, 2027, the rules about who can get full Medi-Cal benefits, including dental care, are changing. If you already have Medi-Cal, you can stay covered, regardless of your immigration status, as long as you remain eligible. Visit the Medi-Cal webpage links below for more information.

Medi-Cal Older Adult Expansion

As of May 1, 2022, adults 50 years of age or older who were enrolled in restricted scope Medi-Cal (also called Emergency Medi-Cal) are eligible for full scope Medi-Cal benefits. Immigration status does not matter, but all other Medi-Cal eligibility rules still apply.

Full-scope Medi-​Cal covers more than just emergency health care. It provides medical, dental, mental health, vision care, and more. Visit the Medi-Cal webpage links below for updates starting July 1, 2027.

Medi-Cal Enrollment Assistance

Get help applying for or renewing Medi-Cal health coverage and get answers to your questions. Below are local community organizations that can provide free enrollment assistance.

You can also apply for Medi-Cal online:

Find a Local Medi-Cal Provider

Community Health Centers provide tremendous value and impact to the communities they serve. They provide quality medical and dental care for people with Medi-Cal, other insurance, no insurance, or who cannot afford care. Use the resources below to find a Medi-Cal provider near you.

  • Community Medical and Dental Health Centers
    View a list of community health centers located throughout Orange County.

  • OC Health Care Agency Health Referral Line
    The Health Referral Line provides assistance in accessing dental and health services in Orange County.
    Phone number: 1-800-564-8448. The TDD number (phone number for the hearing impaired) is 1 (800) 801-7100.

Medi-Cal Resources for Partners and Providers

Physicians, health care providers, and community partners play a vital role in helping patients and community members maintain uninterrupted coverage.

Supporting the community through the Medi-Cal renewal process can help prevent gaps in care and ensure continued access to essential health and dental care services.

Please visit the Medi-Cal webpage links below for information about the Medi-Cal Expansion Initiative and outreach resources to promote Medi-Cal in your community.

 

Page last updated on 7.17.26