Navigating Medi-Cal Dental
Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding and accessing social services.
Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid health care program. This program pays for a variety of medical services for children and adults with limited income and resources.
Having personally experienced the complexities of Medi-Cal, from navigating the system for myself and my family, I know the challenges to secure the services and support that are essential for our well-being.
In this resource, I’m sharing further information, strategies and tips that have worked for me in navigating this system, with the aim of making it easier for you and your family to access the care you need.
This resource focuses on accessing Medi-Cal Dental services once you have already been enrolled in Medi-Cal.
Contacting Medi-Cal Dental
Telephone Number
The Medi-Cal Dental Member Contact Information page provides details on how to contact the Medi-Cal Dental Program.
Members can reach the Member Telephone Service Center at (800) 322-6384 for assistance with finding a provider, scheduling appointments, addressing treatment authorization requests, and general program inquiries.
The page also offers information on filing grievances, obtaining dental records, and reporting suspected Medi-Cal fraud. For hearing-impaired members, TTY assistance is available.
Tips When Calling Medi-Cal Services
Call During Non-Peak Hours
When calling Medi-Cal services, call during Non-Peak hours. This is typically between 8am-10am.
This ensures you are not on hold for an extended amount of time and receive the help you need.
For example, I have had experiences when I have called at 8:00 am and have waited on hold for 10-15 minutes and there have been experiences when I have called in the afternoon and have waited for 1-2 hours and was still unable to get in contact with someone.
Overall, I recommend calling the earliest time possible.
Have Your Personal Information Available
When calling Medi-Cal services you will be asked to verify your identity. This may include your date of birth, medi-cal number, social security number, full name, address, or phone number.
Have this information ready and on hand. You will usually be asked for this information during the initial call and multiple times if you are transferred to a different department or worker.
If you do not know your Medi-Cal number, there are other ways to verify your information. Once you reach a worker, ask for your Medi-Cal number and write it down. This makes the process of verifying your information in the future faster for services that need your Medi-Cal number.
For example, during one of my experiences, I did not have my Medi-Cal number and verified my information through other forms. I was then given my Medi-Cal number by the staff on the phone and I requested a Medi-Cal card to be sent to me via mail.
Please note that sharing any personal, sensitive information you choose is at your own risk, I am not responsible for any actions taken as a result. For further information, refer to my disclaimer document at the footer of this website.
Have A List Of Your Specific Needs
Have a list of questions ready for what your specific needs are. This ensures you are able to ask for and request the help you need.
Writing down your questions also ensures you do not forget to request something specific and then need to call again and begin the entire phone call process again; which can be time consuming.
For example, I write my questions on a notepad before I call Medi-Cal services and have a pen and paper ready to write down the information provided by Medi-Cal staff. In my experience, Medi-Call staff will provide you with additional phone numbers you might need to call if you are requesting or needing specific services or have specific questions.
Search for Dental Providers
Medi-Cal Dental Directory
The Medi-Cal Dental Provider Directory Search page allows Medi-Cal members to find dental providers in their area. Users can search by location, provider name, or specialty to locate dentists who accept Medi-Cal. The directory offers a range of filtering options to help users find a provider that meets their needs.
Once you find a provider that you may think meets your specific needs (e.g., distance, services), I have provided questions below that may help you further determine if you would like to continue with receiving dental services with a specific provider.
Questions to Ask Potential Dental Providers
8 Important Questions
Do you take Medi-Cal?
Confirm that the current provider takes Medi-Cal.
Are you accepting new patients?
Confirm that the current provider is accepting new patients.
What services are covered by Medi-Cal?
Ask for a detailed list of dental services covered under Medi-Cal, such as cleanings, exams, fillings, extractions, and more.
Are there any services that are not covered?
Understanding what isn’t covered helps you avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
Are there any additional costs or copayments?
Ask if there are any additional fees, such as for specific treatments or materials, and if there are any copayments required.
How do I schedule appointments, and what is the typical wait time?
Ask about scheduling appointments and the average wait time for non-emergency visits.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as your Medi-Cal card, ID, and any relevant medical history.
Are there any languages or accessibility services available?
If you or a family member requires translation services or accessibility accommodations, ask if these are available.
The process of reaching out for help can sometimes be challenging, but don’t let that stop you from getting the dental support and care you or your family needs.