The oral health program of Santa Cruz County’s public health division is collaborating with Dientes Community Dental to publicize upcoming changes to dental benefits that will affect undocumented immigrants.
Beginning Jan. 1, there will be an enrollment freeze, and adults will not be able to apply for full, non-emergency Medi-Cal benefits without proper immigration documentation.
Starting July 1, 2026, changes to federal Medicaid and Medi-Cal coverage will mean that undocumented adults currently covered by Medi-Cal will no longer have access to full dental benefits. Emergency dental care will still be available.
This change affects adults 19 years and older who can’t provide proof of proper immigration status. Children and individuals who are pregnant or postpartum are exempt.
Adults who do not have proper immigration status should see a dentist and complete all treatment as soon as possible before dental benefits ends, Dr. Sepideh Taghvaei, executive vice president of operations at Dientes, said via a media release.
To find a Medi-Cal Dental provider, click here.
Find local resources to access critical health care or social safety net services here and state resources at the California Department of Health Care Services.
The Santa Cruz County Employment and Benefits Services Division offers free and confidential support for Medi-Cal enrollment decisions.
Have news that should be in Lookout Briefs? Send your news releases, including contact information, to news@lookoutlocal.com.
