Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in South Dakota
Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in South Dakota
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, no‑fluff guide built for single moms in South Dakota. Every section starts with the most important action to take, then gives backup plans. Keep it open while you call, apply, or book care.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call the Medicaid Dental Call Center now at 1-877-841-1478 for help finding a dentist that takes South Dakota Medicaid and for benefit questions; ask them to check your annual limit and help book the first available appointment through [Delta Dental of South Dakota Medicaid support], then save the [DSS Medicaid recipient page] and the [SD Medicaid phone list] for quick follow‑up.
 - Book the soonest sliding‑fee urgent slot at your closest federally qualified health center: try [Falls Community Health (Sioux Falls)] at 605-367-8793, [Complete Health (Rapid City)] at 605-721-8939, or [Horizon Health Care dental clinics] statewide; ask for “emergency dental” or “same‑day triage.”
 - If your child is in pain and uninsured, check this week’s [Delta Dental Mobile Program calendar], use [InsureKidsNow’s dentist finder], and call [South Dakota Medicaid/CHIP] at 1-800-597-1603 to get coverage started fast; ask about rides via [Non‑Emergency Medical Travel (NEMT)] at 1-866-403-1433. (southdakota.deltadental.com)
 
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Medicaid member help: 1-800-597-1603 — [South Dakota Medicaid]; dental questions and provider help 1-877-841-1478 — [Delta Dental (Medicaid Dental Call Center)]. (insurekidsnow.gov)
 - Find a nearby dentist for kids: [InsureKidsNow Dentist Locator]; adults can search networks via [Delta Dental “Find a Dentist”] and verify sliding‑fee clinics on [SD DOH Dental Providers list]. (insurekidsnow.gov)
 - Same‑day safety‑net clinics: [Falls Community Health], [Complete Health dental], [Horizon Health Care dental locations]; ask for “urgent” or “toothache” visits. (siouxfalls.gov)
 - Rides to the dentist (Medicaid): mileage and lodging help (long trips) via [NEMT policy] and [Community/Secure Transportation directories]; call 1-866-403-1433. (dss.sd.gov)
 - 211 for any referral: dial 211, text your ZIP to 898211, or use [Helpline Center 211] for dental and financial help statewide; see [Helpline contact page]. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 
How to Get Low‑Cost Dental Care in South Dakota This Week
The fastest path to care is asking for a sliding‑fee “urgent” appointment at a community health center. Call [Falls Community Health] for Sioux Falls–area care (nominal dental charge $35 on the slide), [Complete Health (formerly CHCBH)] for Rapid City, and [Horizon Health Care dental clinics] for many rural towns; all take Medicaid and discount bills based on income. Also check the [SD DOH dental clinic list] for more sites. (siouxfalls.gov)
If you’re near Vermillion or Sioux Falls, you can book reduced‑fee cleanings and x‑rays at the [USD Delta Dental Oral Health Center] in Vermillion and the [USD Sioux Falls Dental Clinic]; students work under licensed dentists and hygienists. Keep the [USD Dental Hygiene department page] for updates and hours. (usd.edu)
For Native moms and kids eligible for IHS, Rapid City’s [Oyate Health Center Dental Department] has daily walk‑in lines (arrive early), and the [IHS Rapid City Service Unit dental line] can guide care; look up your reservation clinic on [IHS facility pages] for Rosebud, Pine Ridge, and Cheyenne River. (oyatehealth.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 to search for private dentists offering short‑term payment plans, use [InsureKidsNow’s locator] to widen your radius for children, or ask the [Medicaid Dental Call Center] to call offices on your behalf. For a one‑time charity option, review [Donated Dental Services (DLN)] eligibility, but expect a waitlist. (insurekidsnow.gov)
How to Stop a Severe Toothache in South Dakota Today
If pain is severe or swelling affects breathing, go to the nearest emergency room and call 911 if needed. For urgent dental today, try walk‑in lines at [Oyate Health Center Dental] (Native patients), same‑day triage at [Falls Community Health] or [Complete Health dental], and check for the [Delta Dental Mobile Program] if your child qualifies. For Medicaid rides, call [NEMT] before you go if possible. (oyatehealth.com)
South Dakota Medicaid and CHIP Dental — What’s Covered and How to Apply
Start by applying or renewing online, then call the hotlines the same day. Apply at [DSS Apply Online] (choose Medical), keep [DSS Medicaid general info] handy, and save [InsureKidsNow South Dakota] for children’s coverage details and provider search. Use the Medicaid member line (1-800-597-1603) and the Dental Call Center (1-877-841-1478) for real‑time help. (dss.sd.gov)
Adults on South Dakota Medicaid get two exams/cleanings/fluoride per year, x‑rays, fillings, extractions, crowns, front‑tooth root canals, and dentures/partials (every five years). There’s a $2,000 adult annual cap (July 1–June 30), but preventive care, medically necessary emergencies, and dentures don’t count against that limit; ask your dentist to submit pre‑approval through [Delta Dental of South Dakota (Medicaid)]. Read the state’s [Medicaid dental coverage for recipients] page for specifics. (dss.sd.gov)
Children on Medicaid or CHIP get full EPSDT dental: two exams/cleanings/fluoride a year, sealants, x‑rays, fillings, extractions, crowns, root canals, and orthodontics only for severe medical need with pre‑approval. Use the [InsureKidsNow dentist search] and keep [SD DSS CHIP program] income guidelines ready when you apply. For coverage questions, call CHIP at 1-800-305-3064 and Medicaid at 1-800-597-1603. (insurekidsnow.gov)
If you need a ride, ask Medicaid about [Non‑Emergency Medical Travel (NEMT)] mileage reimbursement or [Community/Secure Transportation] vendors; lodging and meals can be covered for long trips (150+ miles). Always call Member Services and the transportation vendor before travel and keep receipts. (dss.sd.gov)
Processing times: federal rules allow up to 45 days (90 for disability), but South Dakota reported a 21‑day average in May 2024; some applicants still see delays as the new [BEES eligibility system] rolls out. If you haven’t heard in three weeks, call your [local DSS office] and the Medicaid line. (sdpb.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a navigator to sit with you on the application. Use [Get Covered South Dakota navigators] or call [Helpline Center 211]. If you’re denied, see the “If Your Application Gets Denied” section below and ask the [DSS fair hearing office via Medicaid contacts] how to appeal. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
Table — Medicaid Dental at a Glance (Adults vs. Children)
| Benefit | Adults (Medicaid) | Children (Medicaid/CHIP) | Notes | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Exams/Cleanings/Fluoride | Covered 2/year | Covered 2/year | Preventive is exempt from adult $2,000 cap. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| X‑rays/Fillings/Extractions | Covered | Covered | Ask your dentist to submit pre‑approval if unsure. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Root Canals | Front teeth | All as needed | Ortho only for severe medical need with prior approval. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Crowns | Covered | Covered | Medical need standards apply. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Dentures/Partials | Covered (q5 years) | As needed | Adults: dentures don’t count against $2,000 cap. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Annual Limit | $2,000 (adult) | None | Preventive/emergency exempt from cap. (dss.sd.gov) | 
Sliding‑Fee Clinics and Dental Hygiene Schools
Your quickest low‑cost path is the sliding‑fee clinics listed by the [South Dakota Department of Health dental providers] page. Start with [Falls Community Health] (Sioux Falls), [Complete Health dental] (Rapid City), and [Horizon Health Care dental clinics] (many towns). If you don’t see appointments online, call and ask for “same‑day problem” slots. (doh.sd.gov)
For cleanings, x‑rays, sealants, and deep cleanings at reduced rates, book with the [USD Delta Dental Oral Health Center] in Vermillion or the [USD Sioux Falls Dental Clinic]. School clinics run on semester schedules, so ask about break weeks and plan ahead; save the [USD Dental Hygiene program] page. (usd.edu)
If you live far from a dentist or your child hasn’t seen one in two years, check the [Delta Dental Mobile Program] schedule; the truck provides preventive and restorative care for kids at no cost. When the truck isn’t nearby, ask the [Medicaid Dental Call Center] to help you find the nearest pediatric dentist who takes Medicaid. (southdakota.deltadental.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to be put on cancellation lists, widen your search footprint using [InsureKidsNow’s dentist finder], and request a written treatment plan you can take to a second site. Verify any dentist’s license on the [South Dakota Board of Dentistry] and ask clinics about [NEMT] or local transit vouchers. (insurekidsnow.gov)
Table — Major Safety‑Net Dental Clinics
| Clinic | City | Phone | Key Notes | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Falls Community Health | Sioux Falls | 605-367-8793 | Sliding‑fee; dental nominal $35; accepts Medicaid; interpreters available. (siouxfalls.gov) | 
| Complete Health (Dental) | Rapid City | 605-721-8939 | Sliding‑fee; accepts Medicaid; LGBTQ+ friendly services on site. (completehealthsd.care) | 
| Horizon Health Care — multiple dental sites | Statewide | See site | Rural locations (Alcester, De Smet, Howard, Martin, Plankinton, Yankton…); sliding‑fee and Medicaid. (dakotaathome.sd.gov) | 
| USD Dental Hygiene Clinics | Vermillion / Sioux Falls | 605-658-5959 / 605-367-8046 | Reduced‑fee student clinics; longer visits; limited dates. (usd.edu) | 
| Delta Dental Mobile Program (kids) | Statewide | 605-494-2558 | No‑cost care for kids; check the community calendar before travel. (southdakota.deltadental.com) | 
Tribal and IHS Dental Options (if you or your child are enrolled)
Walk‑in care runs early; bring tribal ID and expect a line. Rapid City’s [Oyate Health Center Dental Department] sees walk‑ins until mid‑morning; confirm hours on [Oyate Health’s site] or call 605-355-2260. For east/central reservations, check [IHS Rosebud Service Unit dental] sign‑in times and [Pine Ridge Service Unit] and [Cheyenne River Health Center] clinic lines. (oyatehealth.com)
If needed services aren’t available locally, staff can request Purchased/Referred Care (PRC); ask eligibility staff at [IHS Rapid City Service Unit] or your Service Unit’s PRC desk. Keep all receipts and notify PRC within required time frames. (ihs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use [Complete Health dental] or [Horizon Health Care dental] on a sliding‑fee basis and ask about NEMT mileage reimbursement if you also have Medicaid. Call [Helpline Center 211] for transportation or lodging help. (completehealthsd.care)
Charity and One‑Time Programs
If you are elderly (65+), have a permanent disability, or need medically necessary dental tied to another treatment, apply to [Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services)]. All counties are open to new applications as of 2025; expect waitlists of months to a year. You can also download the [SDDA DDS application] or call the state coordinator. (dentallifeline.org)
Watch for local free events such as Sioux Falls’ [Sioux Empire Smiles] (often in October) and February’s Give Kids a Smile listings via the [SD Dental Association free/low‑cost page]; for kids, also check the [Delta Dental Mobile Program calendar]. (sddental.org)
For crime‑related dental injuries (assault, domestic violence, DUI crashes), the [South Dakota Crime Victims’ Compensation Program] can reimburse eligible dental bills up to $15,000; apply through the [SD DPS eligibility portal], and ask your county victim advocate or [OVC South Dakota page] for help. (dps.sd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call [Helpline Center 211] to see if a local [Community Action agency] has small emergency funds, ask your church’s benevolence fund, and request a written treatment plan so you can “piece‑out” urgent steps at a sliding‑fee clinic. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
Table — Programs That Often Help With Dental Costs
| Program | Who Qualifies | What It Can Do | Where to Start | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid/CHIP Dental | Low‑income adults/children | Preventive and restorative care; dentures (adults) | Apply at [DSS Apply Online]; call 1-800-597-1603. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| NEMT | Medicaid recipients | Mileage/lodging for covered dental trips | Read [NEMT policy]; call 1-866-403-1433. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Donated Dental Services | 65+/disabled/medically fragile | Free comprehensive treatment; long wait | Start at [DLN South Dakota] or [SDDA DDS page]. (dentallifeline.org) | 
| Crime Victims’ Compensation | Victims of violent crime | Pay dental bills when crime‑related | Review [CVC benefits]; call 605-773-6317. (dps.sd.gov) | 
| Delta Dental Mobile (kids) | Ages 0–21 with access barriers | No‑cost care on a mobile clinic | Check [Mobile Program calendar]. (southdakota.deltadental.com) | 
Paying for Dental if You Don’t Qualify for Medicaid
If you can’t get Medicaid, compare Marketplace dental during open enrollment. Pediatric dental is an essential health benefit; stand‑alone Marketplace plans cap kids’ out‑of‑pocket (about $425 per child in 2025). Adults buy separate dental and plans often have annual caps. Get free help from [Get Covered South Dakota] or use [Healthcare.gov dental info] to see plans. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
Veterans enrolled in VA health care (and CHAMPVA families) can buy discounted dental through [VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)] with [Delta Dental VADIP] or [MetLife VADIP]; compare 2025 plan booklets before you enroll. (va.gov)
Be careful with medical credit cards and deferred‑interest plans offered in dental offices; missed fine print can trigger high rates and retroactive interest. Read the [CFPB medical credit card warning] and note federal actions on medical debt reporting announced in 2025 by [The White House]; check current status before you decide. (consumerfinance.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic for a written estimate and a payment plan without a new credit card, request staged care (treat infection first), and ask [Helpline Center 211] to search for local dental discount days or church assistance funds. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
Diverse Communities: What’s Different and Where to Start
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Book inclusive care at [Complete Health’s community clinics] and mention language or privacy needs; Medicaid covers preventive dental, and [SD DSS Medicaid] can confirm benefits. Use [Helpline Center 211] to find nearby affirming dentists and support groups. (completehealthsd.care)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask [DHS (Department of Human Services)] about supports and care coordination, and connect with [CYSHCN (Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs)] for care planning and referrals. Clinics on the [DOH dental provider list] have accessible entrances; request “large‑print” forms and interpreter/TTY if needed. (dhs.sd.gov)
Veteran single mothers: If the VA does not cover your dental, compare [VADIP options via VA], [Delta Dental VADIP plans], or [MetLife VADIP], and ask about income‑based discounts at [community health centers] while coverage starts. Keep [Helpline Center 211] for local veteran navigators. (va.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: Community clinics like [Falls Community Health] and [Complete Health] offer interpreters; tell schedulers your language. For children, use [InsureKidsNow dentist finder] and apply through [DSS Apply Online] even if you aren’t eligible yourself. (siouxfalls.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: Enrolled members can use [Oyate Health Center Dental], [IHS Service Unit dental clinics], and PRC when referred; combine IHS care with [Medicaid NEMT mileage] when eligible. Keep [Rapid City IHS contacts] for PRC questions. (oyatehealth.com)
Rural single moms: When dentists are far away, schedule with [Horizon Health Care dental] in small towns, ask [NEMT] about mileage/lodging, and watch the [Delta Dental Mobile Program] calendar. The state is recruiting hygienists and dentists to rural communities via [RHFRAP/RAP incentives]. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
Single fathers: All programs here apply equally; call [Medicaid], check [sliding‑fee clinics], and use [InsureKidsNow] for children’s providers. (dss.sd.gov)
Language access: Ask clinics for interpreters when booking; [Falls Community Health] offers interpreter scheduling. Medicaid has a Spanish line (see [CMS contact listing for SD Medicaid]). For hearing access, request TTY or use 711 relay when calling [DSS phone lines]. (siouxfalls.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call [Helpline Center 211] and ask for a navigator who can join your calls, and bring any denial letters to your next clinic visit so staff can help you appeal with the right language. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
Resources by Region (Where to Call First)
- Sioux Falls/Minnehaha‑Lincoln: Call [Falls Community Health] at 605-367-8793, book [USD Sioux Falls Dental Clinic] for low‑cost cleanings, and apply or renew via [DSS Apply Online]; 211 is your backup, using [Helpline Center contacts]. (siouxfalls.gov)
 - Rapid City/Pennington‑Meade/Lawrence: Try [Complete Health dental], check [Oyate Health Dental] if tribal, and verify rides through [NEMT]; use [SD DOH dental list] for backups. (completehealthsd.care)
 - Aberdeen/Brown; Watertown/Codington; Brookings/Moody/Kingsbury: Look up [Horizon Health Care dental sites] (De Smet, Howard) and [DOH dental list]; call [Inter‑Lakes Community Action Partnership] if you need help with bills affecting dental care. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 - Yankton/Clay/Union: Schedule at [Horizon’s Yankton Dental], ask [ROCS (Rural Office of Community Services)] about basic‑needs help and transit, and apply at [DSS online] if kids need CHIP. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
 - Central (Pierre/Hughes/Stanley) and reservations: Use the [DOH dental list] to find clinics, call [IHS Service Units], and check [Delta Dental Mobile] stops; request [NEMT] for long trips. (doh.sd.gov)
 
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for Medicaid but not submitting all proofs; upload or bring income and ID the same day you apply at [DSS Apply Online], then call [Medicaid Member Services] to confirm receipt and ask your case status timeline. Use [local DSS offices] if you need help scanning. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Assuming no rides exist; ask about [NEMT mileage/lodging rules] and the [community transportation directory] before you miss care. If you use a bus or ride service, make sure it’s an [enrolled provider]. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Signing up for high‑interest medical credit cards in a hurry; read the [CFPB warning on deferred‑interest cards] and ask the clinic for an internal payment plan first. Keep up with medical‑debt reporting changes shared by [The White House]. (consumerfinance.gov)
 
Reality Check
Funding and staffing drive wait times. In May 2024, DSS reported a 21‑day average for Medicaid decisions, but some families waited longer as the [BEES system] launched; build a Plan B while you wait. For walk‑ins, arrive early; [Oyate Dental] lines often form before doors open. For Sioux Falls, [Falls Community Health] offers same‑day problem slots but they fill quickly. (sdpb.org)
Table — Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Who to call first | Backup | 
|---|---|---|
| Find a dentist that takes Medicaid | 1-877-841-1478 — [Delta Dental Call Center] | [InsureKidsNow Dentist Locator] and [DOH dental list] (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Urgent dental today | [Falls Community Health] or [Complete Health dental] | [Horizon Health Care dental] and [USD clinics] (siouxfalls.gov) | 
| Rides to the dentist (Medicaid) | 1-866-403-1433 — [NEMT] | [Community/Secure Transportation] list; save mileage logs (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Child dental coverage | [InsureKidsNow SD] | [Medicaid/CHIP apply]; hotlines on page (insurekidsnow.gov) | 
| Charity dental (adults) | [DLN/Donated Dental Services] | [SDDA DDS page]; expect waitlist (dentallifeline.org) | 
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Apply online: start at [DSS Apply Online]; choose “Medical” and submit household details.
 - Upload proofs: photo ID, social security numbers (if available), last 30 days’ income, childcare costs, and address; use [local DSS office finder] if you need scanning help.
 - Call to confirm: 1-800-597-1603 (Medicaid) and 1-877-841-1478 (dental) to confirm your application was received and to ask about provider help via [Delta Dental Medicaid support].
 - Ask about rides: call [NEMT] at 1-866-403-1433; save mileage/receipts and ask if lodging/meals apply.
 - Book care now: call [Falls Community Health] or [Complete Health dental] or a [Horizon dental clinic] and ask for the first “urgent” slot; bring your pending Medicaid confirmation number. (dss.sd.gov)
 
If Your Application Gets Denied (or Delayed)
- Ask DSS for the denial reason in writing and how to fix it; call [Medicaid Member Services] and your [local DSS office] to review missing documents. Reapply immediately if you missed a deadline. (dss.sd.gov)
 - Request a fair hearing by the deadline on your notice; use contacts on the [Medicaid phone list] and ask 211 for advocacy help if you need it. While you wait, keep care going at [sliding‑fee clinics] and ask about [NEMT] if you become eligible. (dss.sd.gov)
 - If you suspect an error or barrier with a provider, you may file a complaint with the [South Dakota Board of Dentistry]; for billing or coverage disputes, call the plan or DSS first. (sdboardofdentistry.org)
 
County‑Level Variations You Should Know
Sioux Falls’ [Falls Community Health] requests a $35 nominal dental fee on the sliding scale; bring proof of income to qualify for bigger discounts. Rapid City’s [Complete Health] may have different hours at school‑based sites; confirm by phone. Many [Horizon dental clinics] in small towns have limited clinic days; ask to be added to cancellation lists and to be booked at nearby Horizon sites. (siouxfalls.gov)
If you live in the southeast, [ROCS] can sometimes help with basic needs that free up money for dental care and provide rural transit passes; east‑central counties can check [Inter‑Lakes Community Action Partnership] for emergency help. Keep [Helpline Center 211] in your favorites for county‑specific referrals. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
Table — Regional and County Resources
| Region | First call | Backups | 
|---|---|---|
| Sioux Falls area (Minnehaha/Lincoln) | [Falls Community Health] | [USD Sioux Falls Dental Clinic]; [DSS Apply Online]; [211] (siouxfalls.gov) | 
| Black Hills (Pennington/Meade/Lawrence) | [Complete Health dental] | [Oyate Dental] (tribal); [NEMT]; [DOH dental list] (completehealthsd.care) | 
| Northeast (Brown/Codington) | [Horizon dental (De Smet/Howard)] | [DOH list]; [Inter‑Lakes CAP] for basic needs (dakotaathome.sd.gov) | 
| Southeast (Yankton/Clay/Union) | [Horizon Yankton Dental] | [ROCS] for transit/basic needs; [DSS Apply Online] (dakotaathome.sd.gov) | 
| Central and reservations | [DOH dental list] | [IHS Service Units]; [Delta Dental Mobile]; [NEMT] (doh.sd.gov) | 
Tips for Faster Appointments and Lower Bills
- Use off‑peak times and cancellation lists at [Falls Community Health], [Complete Health], and [Horizon clinics]; ask for “problem‑focused” visits first. Confirm sliding‑fee eligibility in advance on the [DOH dental provider list]. (siouxfalls.gov)
 - For kids, get coverage and a dentist now with [InsureKidsNow]; if access is hard, watch the [Delta Dental Mobile Program] calendar. Keep WIC staff in the loop — [South Dakota WIC] can make dental referrals while you’re at appointments. (insurekidsnow.gov)
 - Pregnant or postpartum? Book preventive care early through [Medicaid Dental Services page] and ask about fluoride/cleanings; use [NEMT] for rides and keep receipts for reimbursement. If coverage is pending, bring your confirmation number to a sliding‑fee clinic. (dss.sd.gov)
 
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call [Helpline Center 211] and ask for a live three‑way call with the clinic; if you were quoted very high prices, ask for a written estimate and a staged treatment plan or seek a second opinion using the [DOH provider list]. (dakotaathome.sd.gov)
Education, Prevention, and Mobile Help for Kids
Kids can get sealants and fluoride at clinics and sometimes at school events. Learn about fluoride from the [SD Department of Health’s fluoride page] and ask your clinic if they partner with [Delta Dental’s Partners for Prevention] to apply varnish during medical visits. Watch for the [Delta Dental Mobile Program] truck in your community calendar. (doh.sd.gov)
The state highlights low‑cost children’s dental resources on [DOH Oral Health Resources] and lists safety‑net sites on the [DOH Dental Providers] page. If your school sends home a consent form, sign and return it quickly so your child gets varnish or sealants on time. Use [InsureKidsNow] to find an ongoing dental home. (doh.sd.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatrician about in‑clinic fluoride varnish and referrals, call [InsureKidsNow] for more Medicaid dentists, and check the [Mobile Program] calendar for the next nearby stop. (insurekidsnow.gov)
Table — When You Need a Specialist or a Ride
| Situation | First move | Notes | 
|---|---|---|
| Root canal or oral surgery | Ask your dentist to refer within Medicaid network via [Delta Dental Medicaid] | Pre‑approval may apply; confirm adult annual limit status. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| No car or long distance | Call [NEMT]; check [Community Transportation] listings | Mileage and lodging possible for distances ≥150 miles. (dss.sd.gov) | 
| Tribal member far from care | Call [IHS Service Unit] and [PRC]; ask [NEMT] if you have Medicaid too | Keep receipts and notify PRC promptly after emergencies. (ihs.gov) | 
Quick Scams and Quality Checks
Verify any dentist or hygienist using the [SD Board of Dentistry license lookup]. If care seems unsafe or unethical, see the Board’s [complaint process]; they cannot settle billing disputes, so contact your clinic’s billing office or your plan first. For medical credit risks, read [CFPB’s CareCredit enforcement details] before you sign. (sdboardofdentistry.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a copy of your treatment plan and x‑rays, seek a second opinion using the [DOH provider list], and call [Helpline Center 211] for legal aid referrals. (doh.sd.gov)
FAQs — South Dakota Dental Help for Single Moms
- How fast can I get Medicaid dental coverage?
Most non‑disability applications must be decided within 45 days; DSS reported a 21‑day average in May 2024, but some faced delays during the [BEES] rollout. Apply at [DSS Apply Online], then call [Medicaid Member Services] after one week to check status. (sdpb.org) - What exactly is covered for adults?
Adults get two cleanings/exams/fluoride, x‑rays, fillings, extractions, crowns, front‑tooth root canals, and dentures/partials; adult services have a $2,000 annual cap except preventive/emergency/dentures. See [Medicaid dental for recipients] and call the [Delta Dental Medicaid line] before big procedures. (dss.sd.gov) - Where can my child be seen this week?
Try [Falls Community Health], [Complete Health dental], or a [Horizon dental clinic] for sliding fees, check [InsureKidsNow] for a Medicaid dentist, and see if the [Delta Dental Mobile Program] is nearby. (siouxfalls.gov) - Can Medicaid help with gas or a motel?
Yes, the [NEMT] program pays mileage and may cover meals/lodging if you travel 150+ miles to an enrolled provider; confirm before travel and save receipts. (dss.sd.gov) - I’m a Native mom. Do I use IHS or Medicaid?
Use both if eligible. Get urgent care at [Oyate Health Dental] or your [IHS Service Unit], and use [Medicaid NEMT] for travel; ask PRC if services aren’t available locally. (oyatehealth.com) - Is there charity dental for adults who don’t qualify for Medicaid?
Apply to [Dental Lifeline Network DDS] (65+, permanent disability, or medically necessary), and watch the [SDDA free/low‑cost] page for local events; expect waitlists. (dentallifeline.org) - Where do I complain about dangerous or dishonest care?
File with the [SD Board of Dentistry]. For billing disputes, call your plan and the clinic first. Need help? Call [Helpline Center 211] for consumer resources. (sdboardofdentistry.org) - Do school clinics or public health programs do fluoride/sealants?
Yes. Learn about fluoride from [DOH fluoride guidance], watch for consent forms, and ask your clinic if they partner with [Delta Dental’s Partners for Prevention] or host [Mobile Program] visits. (doh.sd.gov) - I’m a veteran — can I get dental without VA eligibility?
You can buy discounted dental through [VADIP (VA)] with [Delta Dental VADIP] or [MetLife VADIP]; compare 2025 benefits and rates before you enroll. (va.gov) - Who can help me compare private dental plans?
Talk to [Get Covered South Dakota] or browse [Healthcare.gov dental]; remember pediatric dental has out‑of‑pocket caps in stand‑alone Marketplace plans, while adult plans usually have annual dollar limits. (dakotaathome.sd.gov) 
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA.
Para atención dental de bajo costo, llame a [Falls Community Health] en Sioux Falls o [Complete Health] en Rapid City, o busque clínicas de [Horizon Health Care]. Para cobertura, solicite Medicaid/CHIP en [DSS Apply Online] y llame a 1-800-597-1603; para dentistas de niños use [InsureKidsNow en SD]. Si necesita transporte, pregunte por [NEMT] (1-866-403-1433). Para miembros de tribus, use [Oyate Health Center Dental] o su clínica de [IHS]. Para ayuda general y referencias, marque 211 o visite [Helpline Center 211].
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- [South Dakota Department of Social Services — Medicaid], [Recipient Dental Services], and [NEMT].
 - [InsureKidsNow — South Dakota page] and [Dentist Locator].
 - [South Dakota Department of Health — Dental Providers] and [Oral Health Resources].
 - [Falls Community Health], [Complete Health dental], and [Horizon Health Care dental] official pages.
 - [University of South Dakota Dental Clinics] (Vermillion and Sioux Falls).
 - [Delta Dental of South Dakota — Mobile Program] and [Medicaid Call Center info].
 - [Indian Health Service/Oyate Health Center Dental].
 - [Dental Lifeline Network DDS — South Dakota].
 - [South Dakota DPS Crime Victims’ Compensation].
 - [Helpline Center 211].
 
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information. Program rules and funding change. Always confirm details with the program or clinic before you apply or travel. Benefit amounts, eligibility, and wait times can vary by county and provider and may change during the year. When in doubt, call to confirm current availability before applying.
🏛️More South Dakota Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Dakota
- 📋 Assistance Programs
 - 💰 Benefits and Grants
 - 👨👩👧 Child Support
 - 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
 - ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
 - 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
 - 🎓 Education Grants
 - 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
 - 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
 - 🔧 Job Training
 - ⚖️ Legal Help
 - 🧠 Mental Health Resources
 - 🚗 Transportation Assistance
 - 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
 - ⚡ Utility Assistance
 - 🥛 WIC Benefits
 - 🏦 TANF Assistance
 - 🏠 Housing Assistance
 - 👶 Childcare Assistance
 - 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
 - 🚨 Emergency Assistance
 - 🤝 Community Support
 - 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
 - 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
 - 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
 - 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
 - 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
 - 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
 - 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
 - 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
 - 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
 - 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
 - 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
 - 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
 - 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
 
