A list of adult dental services covered by Medi-Cal in 2026, including root canals and dentures.
Understanding Your Benefits: More Than Just the Basics

If you have Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal), you have access to some of the most comprehensive dental benefits in the country. Many adults are surprised to learn that their coverage goes far beyond simple extractions. In 2026, Medi-Cal is designed to help you maintain your natural teeth and restore your smile’s function without heavy out-of-pocket costs. At Mission Dental Care, we specialize in maximizing these benefits for our Oceanside neighbors.

The Full List: Covered Adult Dental Services

As of early 2026, the following services are fully covered for adults (ages 21+) with full-scope Medi-Cal:

  • Diagnostic & Preventive: Annual exams, digital X-rays, and professional cleanings (prophylaxis) every 6–12 months.

  • Restorative Care: Tooth-colored composite fillings for front teeth and durable fillings for back teeth.

  • Crowns: Prefabricated and laboratory-processed crowns to protect weakened teeth.

  • Endodontics: Root canals for both front and back teeth (anterior and posterior).

  • Periodontics: Scaling and root planing (deep cleanings) to treat gum disease.

  • Prosthodontics: Full and partial dentures, including repairs, relines, and adjustments.

  • Oral Surgery: Routine and emergency extractions and other medically necessary surgeries.

The “Patient-First” Perspective: Why Use Your Benefits Now?

We often see patients who wait until they are in severe pain to visit the dentist. However, the true benefit of being a “Patient” at Mission Dental Care is our focus on your long-term wellness. Using your Medi-Cal benefits for a routine cleaning today prevents the need for an emergency extraction tomorrow. We treat you with the dignity you deserve, ensuring you understand your coverage so there are never any financial “surprises.” Our team handles all the paperwork and authorizations, so you can focus entirely on your health.

Urgent Update: The July 1, 2026 Policy Shift

It is critical to be aware of upcoming changes. Starting July 1, 2026, California law will implement new restrictions on dental coverage for certain adult groups (specifically those with unsatisfactory immigration status).

  • Who is affected: Adults 19+ in specific eligibility categories may lose “full-scope” dental and move to “emergency-only” coverage.

  • Who is NOT affected: Children under 19, pregnant individuals, and adults with satisfactory immigration status will retain full benefits.

  • Our Advice: If you are in a group that may be affected, now is the time to act. Schedule your comprehensive exam, root canals, and denture fittings immediately to ensure they are completed while your current full benefits are active.

Why Choose Mission Dental Care for Your Medi-Cal Treatment?

Not all offices that accept Medi-Cal are created equal. We pride ourselves on offering a private-practice feel with state-of-the-art technology. Whether you need an emergency root canal or a simple cleaning, Dr. Rios and Dr. Lopez provide the same high-level care to every patient. We are proud to be a low-cost dental provider in Oceanside that refuses to compromise on quality or compassion.

Claim Your Healthy Smile Today!

Don’t leave your benefits on the table. Whether you need a check-up or a total smile restoration, Mission Dental Care is here to help you navigate your Medi-Cal coverage for $0 out-of-pocket.

We are currently offering Free Medi-Cal Benefit Consultations to help you understand exactly what you are eligible for before the mid-year changes take effect.