Denti-Cal Changes July 1, 2026: What You Need to Know

Starting July 1, 2026, California will make significant changes to Denti-Cal (Medi-Cal Dental) benefits for some adults based on immigration status. This guide explains what is changing, who is affected, who remains protected, and what you can do now.

What is changing on July 1, 2026

Starting July 1, 2026, some adults aged 19 and older with Medi-Cal will no longer receive full dental services. They will only receive emergency dental services. This means routine services like cleanings, regular exams, preventive fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, and scheduled root canals will no longer be covered for affected individuals.

This change was approved in California's 2025 to 2026 state budget. DHCS began mailing notice letters to affected members in April 2026. If you receive a letter from DHCS, read it carefully.

Who is affected by this change

The change affects only adults aged 19 and older who do not have satisfactory immigration status under federal rules. This includes undocumented individuals, lawful permanent residents with a green card for less than 5 years (who are not otherwise exempt), individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS), adult asylum seekers, individuals classified as PRUCOL, and individuals with visitor, student, or work visas.

Who is protected (no loss of dental coverage)

The following groups keep their full dental benefits regardless of immigration status: children under 19, pregnant individuals (throughout pregnancy and up to 1 year postpartum), U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents who have completed the 5-year waiting period, refugees and asylees, Cuban and Haitian entrants, COFA migrants, VAWA petitioners, U-visa holders, and individuals paroled into the U.S. for more than 1 year.

What you can do now, before July 1

If this change affects you, you have an important window to take care of your dental health while you still have full coverage. Schedule a comprehensive exam as soon as possible. Complete any pending treatments such as untreated cavities or crowns that need replacement. Respond to any DHCS letters you receive. Keep your Medi-Cal active by completing your annual renewal on time.

At Huntington Park Dental Clinic, our bilingual team can help you plan your care before July 1. Call (323) 319-5676 or book online.

What happens after July 1 if you are affected

Starting July 1, 2026, you will still be able to receive emergency dental care (severe pain, infection, emergency extractions) and all other Medi-Cal services (medical visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health). Only the dental portion changes. Your general medical coverage stays the same.

For payment options after the change, we offer 0% interest financing through Cherry and an in-house membership plan. We explain all options with no pressure.

Frequently asked questions