Does Medi-Cal Cover Root Canals for Adults?

If you’re dealing with a sharp, throbbing toothache, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your insurance will cover the treatment. Many patients ask us: “Does Medi-Cal cover root canals for adults in 2026?”

The answer is yes. Since the full restoration of benefits in California, adults with Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal) have access to comprehensive restorative care. At Mission Dental Care, we specialize in helping you save your natural teeth using these benefits so you can avoid the pain and long-term costs of tooth loss.

What is Specifically Covered?

Medi-Cal coverage for adults is more robust than many people realize. It is not limited just to front teeth:

Anterior Root Canals (Front Teeth): These are fully covered when an infection is present.
Posterior Root Canals (Back Teeth/Molars): Yes, Medi-Cal covers root canals on molars for adults to preserve your chewing function.
$0 Out-of-Pocket: For most members with full-scope coverage, the exam, X-rays, and the procedure itself result in $0 cost to the patient.

Understanding the $1,800 “Soft Cap”

Medi-Cal has an annual “soft cap” of $1,800 for adult dental services. A root canal and the necessary dental crown can sometimes approach this limit.

However, do not let the cap discourage you. Our doctors, Dr. Sandra Rios and Dr. Manuel Lopez, are experts at submitting Treatment Authorization Requests (TARs). If we can prove the work is medically necessary to stop infection or save a tooth, Medi-Cal will often cover the treatment even if it exceeds the $1,800 limit.

The “Root Canal vs. Extraction” Debate

When you don’t have private insurance, it’s tempting to think that pulling a tooth is the “easier” option. We always recommend saving the tooth when possible because:

Bone Health: Tooth extractions can lead to jawbone shrinkage over time.
Bite Alignment: Missing teeth cause others to shift, leading to more dental issues.
Future Costs: Replacing a missing tooth with dentures or implants is often more complex than saving the original tooth today.

URGENT: The July 1, 2026 Deadline

There are significant changes coming to California’s dental policy. Starting July 1, 2026, certain adult groups (specifically undocumented individuals 19+ without satisfactory immigration status) will lose access to full dental benefits and will be moved to “emergency-only” coverage.

If you need a root canal, you must act now. By scheduling your comprehensive exam and X-rays today, we can help you utilize your current full-scope benefits before the summer deadline.

Secure Your Appointment at Mission Dental Care

Join the Oceanside community in choosing a private practice that treats you with the dignity and high-tech care you deserve. We are a “No-Judgment Zone” dedicated to getting you healthy.