Does Medi-Cal cover braces for adults in California?
Asked by: Prof. Krista Cruickshank MD | Last update: October 25, 2025Score: 5/5 (44 votes)
Does California Medi-Cal cover braces?
Yes, Medi-Cal covers braces in California, but only if they are deemed medically necessary and the patient is under 21.
How to get insurance to pay for braces as an adult?
- Check Your Policy Details. ...
- Talk to Your Insurance Company. ...
- Confirm Medical Reasons. ...
- Choose Covered Providers. ...
- Get a Pre-Treatment Estimate. ...
- Get Pre-authorization if Needed. ...
- Understand Your Out-of-Pocket Costs. ...
- Keep All Your Records.
How much do braces cost in California for adults?
How much do adult braces cost? The cost of adult braces typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on factors such as the type of braces, treatment complexity, and insurance coverage. A consultation will provide a more accurate estimate tailored to your needs.
How to qualify for free braces?
How to Qualify for Free Braces for Kids. If your family has a low income, you may qualify for Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Plan (CHIP), or a state-sponsored low-income insurance program. These programs can provide free braces for your children.
Medi-Cal Has Dental Covered
How can I get braces if I can't afford?
- Choose a low-cost option. If you want affordable braces, you probably shouldn't pursue lingual brackets. ...
- Find a dental school clinic. ...
- Ask for a payment plan. ...
- Use your Flexible Spending Account. ...
- Finance your braces. ...
- Explore dental assistance programs.
How can I get free braces in California?
The Medi‑Cal Dental Program provides free or low‑cost dental services to children and adults who receive Medi‑Cal, California's Medicaid program.
How much is a down payment for braces without insurance?
On average, most people can expect to pay about 20% of their costs upfront, which can be between $800 and $1,500 depending on the services needed and your plan.
Do braces take longer for adults?
As many people suspect, adult orthodontic treatment can take slightly longer for adults than teenagers and children. Faster results are possible when we treat children because their jaws are still growing and teeth are still moving so they are easier to shift into the desired place.
What type of braces are best for adults?
For adults, clear aligners like Invisalign are a popular choice due to their discreet appearance and convenience. Lingual braces, placed behind the teeth, offer a hidden option. Traditional metal braces are effective for complex cases.
How to know if braces are medically necessary?
- Overjet: 9 mm or more.
- Reverse overjet: 3.5 mm or more.
- Anterior and/or posterior crossbite of 3 or more teeth per arch.
- Lateral or anterior open bite: 2 mm or more; of 4 or more teeth per arch.
- Impinging overbite with evidence of occlusal contact into the opposing soft tissue.
How long does it take for Medi-Cal to approve braces?
After the records have been submitted to Medi-Cal, it may take up to 1-6 months to receive an authorization or denial of treatment. If your child's case has been reviewed by Medi-cal and approved, we will call you to schedule him/her for placement of the braces (or other appliances).
What does Medi-Cal cover for adults?
Medi-Cal covers most medically necessary care. This includes doctor and dentist appointments, prescription drugs, vision care, family planning, mental health care, and drug or alcohol treatment. Medi-Cal also covers transportation to these services.
Does Medi Care cover braces?
Medicare won't cover braces, or any orthodontic service, unless you have an underlying medical necessity. In this guide, we'll discuss the rare exceptions for coverage under Medicare, how certain Medicare Advantage plans may cover braces, and alternatives ways you can reduce how much braces cost you.
How to get free veneers?
- Research dental schools in your area. They often offer free or discounted dental treatments, including veneers.
- Visit dental charity organizations. ...
- Consider participating in dental research studies. ...
- Check if your insurance covers veneers. ...
- Ask your dentist for payment plan options.
What if I want braces but can't afford them?
Some nonprofit organizations partner with orthodontists to provide braces to individuals who cannot afford them. Programs like Smiles Change Lives focus on helping low-income families access orthodontic care. Eligibility typically depends on income level and other criteria.
Can I get braces if I'm poor?
The answer is yes! If braces are deemed medically necessary for your child, Medicaid can assist in getting them. Some orthodontists will offer a no-cost consultation to discuss your child's needs. This can be very convenient if you're looking into the cost of braces with Medicaid, CHIP, or TRICARE.
What is the cheapest you can pay for braces?
Braces and aligner cost can vary from $1,500 to $5,000 and up depending on the orthodontic treatment diagnosed. Pricing can also very depending on the orthodontic appliances being used and the type of treatment being done.
How do adults pay for braces?
How can you pay for braces? If you haven't budgeted or saved for braces, there are a number of ways to pay, including payment plans and loans. Payment plans: Some orthodontists offer payment plans that allow you to pay off the cost in regular installments.
Is 40 too old for braces?
As long as you're healthy, there's no age limit for braces
If you're concerned, you should consult with an orthodontist. Whether you're a good candidate for braces depends on the amount of bone that's left holding your teeth.
Why are braces not covered for adults?
Many dental plans restrict orthodontic coverage to patients under the age of 19. If you do find insurance coverage for adult braces, check for limitations such as a yearly or lifetime maximum benefit. Note: Adults have denser bone tissue than children, so treatment may take a little longer.
How can I fix my teeth if I don't have money?
- Nonprofit clinics. Some cities have dental clinics that specifically serve people with low incomes, no insurance, or who otherwise can't afford care.
- Donated services. Some state or national charities use donated labor and materials to give free care. ...
- Private dentists.
Can adults get braces for free?
Are braces available on the NHS? Orthodontic treatment is available on the NHS for young people under the age of 18 at no cost, if a dentist feels they need it. NHS orthodontic treatment isn't usually available for adults, but may be approved on a case-by-case basis if needed for health reasons.
How much do braces cost in California without insurance?
Speak to a dental or orthodontic professional today to see if braces are the right option for you. How much do braces cost per month without insurance in San Jose CA? The total average cost of braces without insurance in San Jose CA can be anywhere from $5,500 to $10,000.