If your child has Delaware Medicaid, you may wonder what dental care is covered and where you can go. The good news: dental care is a covered benefit for children with Medicaid, and First Smile Pediatric Dentistry welcomes Medicaid patients at both of our offices.
Does Medicaid cover dental care for kids?
Yes. Federal law requires state Medicaid programs to cover dental care for children and teens under 21. This is part of a benefit called EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment), which is designed to make sure children get regular checkups and the treatment they need.
What's usually covered
Covered services typically include:
Checkups and exams, usually every six months
Cleanings
X-rays
Fluoride treatments
Dental sealants on back teeth
Fillings for cavities
Crowns for badly decayed baby teeth
Pulp therapy to save a tooth with a deep cavity
Extractions when a tooth can't be saved
Space maintainers when a baby tooth is lost early
Emergency care for pain, infection or injury
Some services, such as sedation, general anesthesia or orthodontics, may need prior approval or meet certain medical criteria. Coverage details can change, so we always check your child's specific benefits before treatment and explain anything that isn't covered before we do it.
Plans we accept
We accept all Delaware Medicaid (DMAP) plans, including:
Diamond State Health Plan
Diamond State Health Plan Plus
Highmark Health Options
AmeriHealth Caritas Delaware
If you're not sure which plan your child has, check their Medicaid card or give us a call. We're happy to help.
Special needs and sedation care
Children with special health care needs deserve the same quality of care. Dr. Morgan Morrow is a board certified pediatric dentist who trained at the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, with extensive experience caring for children with autism, sensory differences and complex medical histories. Learn more about our special needs dentistry and sedation options.
Tips for using your child's benefits
Book checkups every six months. Regular visits catch problems early, when treatment is simpler.
Bring your child's Medicaid card to every visit.
Keep your coverage active. Watch for renewal letters from the state and respond on time so your child's coverage doesn't lapse.
Update your contact information with Delaware's Division of Social Services if you move, so you don't miss renewal notices.
Ask about anything you're unsure of. Our team will explain what's covered before treatment.
Don't have coverage yet?
Many Delaware families qualify for Medicaid or the Delaware Healthy Children Program (Delaware's CHIP) and don't realize it. You can apply through Delaware's Division of Social Services. Eligibility depends on household size and income.
Book your child's visit
New patients with Delaware Medicaid are welcome at both of our locations. Request an appointment, see our insurance page, or call Middletown (302) 376-3750 or West Dover (302) 734-0330. We'll verify your child's coverage before the visit.