Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in Michigan

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you direct steps, live phone numbers, and vetted links to real programs in Michigan that lower dental costs or get you seen fast. Save or print the quick boxes and tables so you aren’t hunting for details when you’re in pain. For each program or organization mentioned, you’ll find an italic, descriptive link you can tap right away. (michigan.gov)

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call a walk‑in dental school clinic for a same‑day slot: Try the emergency line at [University of Detroit Mercy Dental – Emergency Clinic] (fee due at check‑in; doors open 7:30 a.m.), or same‑day triage at [University of Michigan School of Dentistry – Emergency Services] if you’re closer to Ann Arbor. If you can’t afford the visit, ask about Medicaid acceptance at check‑in. (dentalpatients.udmercy.edu)
• Use your Medicaid health plan’s dental line to get an urgent appointment: If you have [Blue Cross Complete dental] call 1‑844‑320‑8465; for [Priority Health] or [Meridian], ask for their Delta Dental–administered urgent line and document your case number. If lines are busy, message the plan via your member portal so it’s time‑stamped. (mibluecrosscomplete.com)
• Book a ride if transportation is the only barrier: If you’re on Medicaid and can’t get to the dentist, call [Modivcare Michigan] at 1‑866‑569‑1902 (or your plan’s ride line) to schedule non‑emergency medical transportation to dental care. Keep your appointment letter or text confirmation. (modivcare.com)

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Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• MDHHS Medicaid Beneficiary Help Line: Call 1‑800‑642‑3195 for coverage questions, plan issues, or to file a complaint; you can also email [MDHHS Beneficiary Support] for follow‑up in writing. TTY: 866‑501‑5656. (michigan.gov)
• Apply or manage benefits online: Use [MI Bridges] to apply for Medicaid, check letters, upload documents, or find local resources. Need tech help? Call the [MI Bridges Help Desk] at 1‑844‑799‑9876. (mibridges.me)
• Healthy Kids Dental (children up to age 21 with Medicaid): Call [BCBSM Healthy Kids Dental] at 1‑800‑936‑0935 or [Delta Dental Healthy Kids Dental] at 1‑866‑696‑7441 for dentists and urgent help. (bcbsm.com)
• Low‑cost clinics statewide: Start with [My Community Dental Centers (MCDC)] (sliding fees; first visit often low‑cost), [HRSA Find a Health Center] (FQHCs), and [Michigan Oral Health Directory] (public/low‑cost clinics by county). (mydental.org)
• Donated Dental (non‑emergency comprehensive charity care): Apply through [Dental Lifeline Network – Michigan DDS]; or call MDHHS’s [Michigan Donated Dental Services] lines (statewide 1‑866‑263‑4061; SE Michigan 1‑800‑850‑5913). (dentallifeline.org)

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What Dental Help Exists in Michigan Right Now?

Michigan Medicaid—both regular Medicaid and the Healthy Michigan Plan—covers adult dental care, with a wider set of services since April 2023: cleanings, X‑rays, fillings, extractions, dentures, and newly added deep cleanings, sealants, root canals, crowns, and periodontal care. Adults enrolled in Medicaid health plans get dental through the plan’s network; those not in a plan use fee‑for‑service Medicaid. Start care through [MDHHS Dental Redesign], choose a dentist via your plan, or check the fee‑for‑service provider list if you are not in a plan. (michigan.gov)

Funding and provider participation have improved; MDHHS raised dentist payments to broaden access. But appointment availability still varies by county, and some offices have wait lists. Call your plan’s dental line for help scheduling, or search [Michigan Oral Health Directory] and [HRSA Find a Health Center] for local openings. Always confirm the office accepts your exact plan before you go. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your plan for a case number and “expedited access” if you have infection, swelling, or pain; document calls and the names of reps. If you can’t get an appointment, call the [MDHHS Beneficiary Help Line], file a grievance with your plan, and book a safety‑net clinic at [MCDC] or a dental school while the grievance moves. (michigan.gov)

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Michigan Dental Coverage at a Glance

Sources: [MDHHS Dental Redesign], [HKD overview], [Healthy Moms Healthy Babies], [Priority Health maternity dental], [Michigan Dental Program]. (michigan.gov)

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Health Plan Dental Contacts (Adults)

Use the number on your card first. If you can’t reach them, try the lines below and ask for Dental Member Services. Keep your confirmation or case number.

Verify benefits before treatment; networks change mid‑year. If your dentist is out‑of‑network, ask your plan to help transfer records and continue care for treatments already authorized. (mibluecrosscomplete.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get through within 48 hours, message your plan’s secure portal and call [MDHHS Beneficiary Help Line] with your ticket number. If you’re fee‑for‑service, ask the local MDHHS office for Medicaid dentists or use [Michigan Oral Health Directory]. (michigan.gov)

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How to Apply for Medicaid or Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP) for Dental

Start online with [MI Bridges], or call [Michigan ENROLLS] at 1‑888‑367‑6557 to pick a health plan after approval. Standard processing time is 45 days (15 days if pregnant; 90 days if disability review is needed). Upload pay stubs, ID, and proof of Michigan address; respond to any verification letter fast. (mibridges.me)

Eligibility for the Healthy Michigan Plan is up to 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL). 2025 examples: about $21,597/yearforahouseholdofone;$44,367/year for a household of four. You can confirm updated thresholds with [Washtenaw Health Project’s 2025 FPL chart] or the [Healthy Michigan Plan portal]. (washtenawhealthproject.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your case stalls beyond the “standard of promptness,” call your local MDHHS office (find it from [MDHHS Contact/County Map]) and the [Beneficiary Help Line] with your application number. If denied, see the “If Your Application Gets Denied” section below for appeal steps and emergency options. (michigan.gov)

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Quick Reality Check

• Appointments: Even with the 2023 benefit expansion, same‑week adult appointments can be tough in some counties. Use [FQHCs’ urgent dental lines] and dental schools’ emergency clinics for faster relief, then loop back to your plan dentist. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
• Coverage changes: Plans have shifted dental networks (for example, some moved to Delta Dental administration in 2024–2025). Always verify your dentist’s network in your plan’s directory before you go. (priorityhealth.com)
• Rides: NEMT rides must be scheduled ahead; keep texts/emails. Mileage reimbursement may be available if a friend drives you. Use [Modivcare] or your plan’s ride vendor. (modivcare.com)

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How to Get a Same‑Day Emergency Tooth Extraction in Michigan Today

• Try a teaching clinic early: Arrive before 7:30 a.m. at [Detroit Mercy Dental – Emergency Clinic] (fee due at check‑in) or call [U‑M Dentistry Emergency Services] at 734‑763‑6933 for instructions; both accept many Medicaid plans. Bring photo ID, insurance card, and a way to pay the triage fee. (dentalpatients.udmercy.edu)
• Call your plan and ask for “urgent dental”: Request a same‑day or 48‑hour slot through [Blue Cross Complete urgent dental], [Priority Health/Delta Dental], or [Meridian]. Ask for a call‑back if all reps are busy. (mibluecrosscomplete.com)
• If transportation is the blocker: Book a ride via [Modivcare] (statewide line 1‑866‑569‑1902) or your health plan’s ride number; rides to dental appointments are covered. If you drive yourself, ask about mileage reimbursement rules. (modivcare.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use a safety‑net clinic like [MCDC] for urgent openings statewide, or call [Michigan 2‑1‑1] (dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑844‑875‑9211) and ask for “same‑day dental, sliding‑fee or free clinics” near your ZIP code. (mydental.org)

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Getting Kids In Fast with Healthy Kids Dental (HKD)

Healthy Kids Dental covers dental care at no cost for kids and teens up to age 21 with Medicaid. You’ll be assigned to [Delta Dental HKD] or [BCBSM HKD], but you can change providers. HKD has access standards (urgent care within 48 hours; routine within 21 business days) and after‑hours help lines listed on your card. (michigan.gov)

School‑based programs can also help. [SEAL! Michigan] provides sealants, screenings, and fluoride in schools—check flyers from your child’s school or call your county health department to ask when the team visits. For dental screenings or mobile clinics, ask your school nurse to connect with [Great Lakes Bay Health Centers Mobile Dental] or your local FQHC. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t get a timely appointment, call the plan (Delta or BCBSM) and cite the access standards. Then call [MDHHS Beneficiary Support] and your local FQHC dental site (see Regional Resources) to secure a backup appointment. (deltadentalmi.com)

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Pregnant and Postpartum Coverage (12 Months After Birth)

Michigan provides 12 months of continuous postpartum Medicaid coverage, including dental. Tell your plan as soon as you’re pregnant so they can route you to maternity dental networks (many use Delta Dental EPO) and arrange rides. Review benefits with [Healthy Moms Healthy Babies], check your plan’s maternity dental page (e.g., [Priority Health Maternity]), and keep your postpartum coverage letter. (michigan.gov)

If you’re not eligible for full Medicaid due to immigration status, the [MOMS program] can cover prenatal and two months of postpartum outpatient care while Emergency‑Only Medicaid covers labor and delivery. Ask your caseworker if your clinic can connect you to dental during pregnancy through your plan or a partnering FQHC. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your plan’s care management team and ask for “maternity dental help.” If you’re uninsured, ask your prenatal clinic for a referral to [MCDC] or a school clinic for reduced‑fee care while you work on eligibility. (mydental.org)

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Transportation to Dental Care (Medicaid NEMT)

If you have no ride to a covered appointment, schedule Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). Most plans use ride vendors (like [Modivcare]). Fee‑for‑service members can qualify for mileage or public transit reimbursement; 2025 rates include $0.70/mile plus set wheelchair fees with prior authorization. Reserve rides 3 business days ahead when possible. (modivcare.com)

For Healthy Kids Dental, families in Wayne/Oakland/Macomb who are not in a health plan can call [Delta Dental HKD Transportation] (Modivcare 1‑866‑569‑1902). Otherwise, contact your local MDHHS office for transportation help. (deltadentalmi.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your plan’s transportation line again, ask for a supervisor, and request mileage reimbursement instead. Keep a log of calls and confirmations in case you need to appeal. (molinahealthcare.com)

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Charity Care, Free Days, and Special Programs

• Donated Dental Services (DDS): For people who are elderly, permanently disabled, or medically fragile with no means to pay. Apply via [Dental Lifeline Network – Michigan] (all counties open), or use MDHHS’s [Michigan Donated Dental Services] lines for help. Not for emergencies; waitlists vary. (dentallifeline.org)
• Mission of Mercy (MOM) Free Clinic: The [MDA Foundation’s Mission of Mercy] runs large free clinics. The last event served hundreds in Flint; the next MOM is scheduled for June 11–14, 2026, in Kalamazoo—watch the foundation’s page for updates. (foundation.michigandental.org)
• HIV‑related dental coverage: The [Michigan Dental Program] (MDP) covers eligible residents with HIV as a payer of last resort through Delta Dental. Apply via [MILogin] or call 1‑844‑648‑3384 for help. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your area FQHC (use [HRSA Find a Health Center]), [My Community Dental Centers], and [Michigan 2‑1‑1] for a sliding‑fee appointment while you wait. Ask for financial counseling at intake. (bphc.hrsa.gov)

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Dental Schools and Low‑Cost Clinics That Take Time but Save Money

• [University of Detroit Mercy Dental] in Detroit: student care 30–50% lower than private offices; emergency walk‑in fee currently $80 before treatment; accepts many Medicaid plans. Expect longer visits and multiple appointments. (dentalpatients.udmercy.edu)
• [University of Michigan School of Dentistry] in Ann Arbor: reduced‑fee student clinics; call 734‑763‑6933 to start; emergency line published on the site. Ask about payment plans. (dent.umich.edu)
• [My Community Dental Centers]: 30+ locations statewide; sliding fee scale; uninsured first‑visit special advertised around $39 (exam/X‑rays). Call 1‑877‑313‑6232. (mydental.org)
• FQHC networks: [Cherry Health] in Grand Rapids, [Great Lakes Bay Health Centers] in Saginaw/Bay/Thumb, [Hamilton Community Health Network] in Flint/Lapeer, [Covenant Community Care] in Detroit, and [Upper Great Lakes Family Health Center] in the U.P. offer sliding fees and interpretation services. (cherryhealth.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use [SmileHelpNow] to scan additional low‑cost sites (including hygiene school clinics) by city, and ask your county health department about school‑based dental days. (smilehelpnow.com)

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Tables You Can Save

Table A — Where to Start Based on Your Situation

Sources: plan sites, MDHHS, FQHC networks. (dentalpatients.udmercy.edu)

Table B — Medicaid Application Timelines (Standard of Promptness)

Source: [MDHHS Application Timelines]. Expect variations if verifications are missing; respond quickly to letters. (michigan.gov)

Table C — Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Snapshot

(modivcare.com)

Table D — Adults: What Expanded Medicaid Dental Covers (Examples)

Check plan rules for prior authorization, frequency limits, and provider networks. Source: [MDHHS Dental Redesign]. (michigan.gov)

Table E — Low‑Cost Providers by Network

Verify locations and hours before travel. (dentalpatients.udmercy.edu)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming “Medicaid = any dentist”: Many offices accept Medicaid only through certain networks. Always search your plan’s directory and confirm by phone before showing up. Use [Blue Cross Complete’s dentist finder], [Meridian’s directory], or [Priority Health’s dental page]. (mibluecrosscomplete.com)
• Waiting to apply: HMP/Medicaid can take up to 45 days to process; start the [MI Bridges] application now and upload verifications within 10–15 days. Keep an eye on your MI Bridges messages. (michigan.gov)
• Skipping rides: If the only barrier is transportation, call [Modivcare] or your plan’s ride vendor. Many moms leave benefits untouched because they don’t know rides are covered for dental. (modivcare.com)
• Relying on pain meds: ERs often provide antibiotics and pain relief but not definitive dental care. Book [UDM Emergency Dental] or a [U‑M Dentistry] emergency appointment to treat the source. (dentalpatients.udmercy.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your plan for a case manager to coordinate appointments and rides, and document every call. If you still can’t access care, contact [MDHHS Beneficiary Support] to open a complaint. (michigan.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Apply/Manage Benefits: [MI Bridges]; tech help 1‑844‑799‑9876; [Michigan ENROLLS] 1‑888‑367‑6557. (mibridges.me)
• Medicaid Dental (Adults): Start with your plan’s dental line ([Blue Cross Complete] 1‑844‑320‑8465; [Meridian] 1‑888‑437‑0606; [Priority Health] 1‑866‑558‑0280 via Delta). (mibluecrosscomplete.com)
• Healthy Kids Dental (Children/Teens): [HKD – BCBSM] 1‑800‑936‑0935; [HKD – Delta] 1‑866‑696‑7441. (bcbsm.com)
• Emergency Clinics: [UDM Dental Emergency] (Detroit) and [U‑M Emergency Dentistry] (Ann Arbor). (dentalpatients.udmercy.edu)
• Free/Low‑Cost Clinics: [MCDC], [HRSA Find a Health Center], [Michigan Oral Health Directory]. (mydental.org)

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Application Checklist (Print or Screenshot)

• Create your MI Bridges account: [MI Bridges]; set text/email notifications. (mibridges.me)
• Gather documents: Photo ID, Social Security number (if you have one), proof of address, last 30 days of income, pregnancy proof if applicable. Check messages daily for any extra requests. (michigan.gov)
• Submit and pick a plan: After approval, call [Michigan ENROLLS] or enroll online. Note your plan name and member ID. (michigan.gov)
• Call your plan’s dental line: Choose a dentist; ask about required prior auth for crowns, root canals, or dentures; schedule cleaning and needed treatment. (mibluecrosscomplete.com)
• Set up transportation: Book rides via [Modivcare] or your plan vendor at least 3 days ahead; ask about mileage reimbursement. (modivcare.com)

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Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• Read the denial letter: It lists why (missing paperwork, income, residency, etc.). Log back into [MI Bridges] to upload anything missing. (mibridges.me)
• Appeal quickly: Follow the appeal instructions in your letter; call the [MDHHS Beneficiary Help Line] to confirm receipt. While waiting, book care at a sliding‑fee clinic like [MCDC] or an FQHC. (michigan.gov)
• Pregnancy or urgent medical need: If you are pregnant, ask about a faster 15‑day decision timeline. If there’s an infection or swelling, use [U‑M Dentistry Emergency] or [UDM Emergency] and bring your denial letter so the financial counselor can help. (michigan.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for affirming care at FQHCs: Most FQHCs offer nondiscrimination, inclusive intake, and interpreters; try [Cherry Health], [Covenant Community Care], or [Great Lakes Bay Health Centers] and request a female‑identifying provider if helpful. All plans must follow nondiscrimination rules; if you face bias, call [MDHHS Beneficiary Support]. TTY users can dial 711 on all numbers listed. (cherryhealth.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or kids with special health needs: Ask about accommodations and CSHCS: Clinics can provide longer appointments, quiet rooms, or wheelchair‑accessible bays—request when scheduling. Explore [Children’s Special Health Care Services (CSHCS)] at 1‑800‑359‑3722 for qualifying conditions, and check [Upper Great Lakes Family Health dental] for special‑care dentistry options in the U.P. (michigan.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Leverage MVAA and VA dental: Call [Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency] at 1‑800‑MICH‑VET for emergency grants (county trust funds) or navigation; check [VA Dental Care] for eligibility classes (some veterans qualify for full dental). Ask about VADIP discounted dental plans if you don’t qualify for VA dental. (michigan.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: Use MOMS or FQHCs while status is sorted: The [MOMS program] helps cover prenatal and limited postpartum care regardless of citizenship, and FQHCs serve patients regardless of status with sliding fees. Use [HRSA Find a Health Center] and ask for interpretation. TTY: 711. (michigan.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Use IHS/tribal clinics: Search [IHS Find Health Care] for dental clinics, and check the [Sault Tribe dental updates] for current walk‑in hours if you’re in the eastern U.P. Bring tribal ID and plan card if you have one. (ihs.gov)
• Rural moms with limited access: Look for mobile programs and ride help: Ask your school about [SEAL! Michigan] visits; [Great Lakes Bay Health Centers Mobile Dental] and some counties run mobile hygiene/clinic days. Use [Modivcare] for rides over long distances. (michigan.gov)
• Single fathers: Same pathways apply: Enroll via [MI Bridges], pick a dental provider through your plan, and request rides if needed. Ask your county for parenting programs that include dental referrals through Head Start or local health departments. (mibridges.me)
• Language access and accessibility: Ask for interpreters or large‑print: FQHCs and plans must offer free interpretation and accessible materials on request. Say “I need an interpreter” or “large‑print forms.” TTY callers can dial 711 then the destination number. Use plan lines like [Blue Cross Complete] or [Meridian] and request accommodations. (cherryhealth.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call [Michigan 2‑1‑1] to find clinics noting LGBTQ+‑affirming care, disability access, or language services, and report any access problem to [MDHHS Beneficiary Support]. (mi211.org)

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Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call Today)

• Detroit/Wayne County — Emergency and Low‑Cost Dental: [UDM Dental Center] 1‑313‑494‑6700, [Covenant Community Care] 1‑313‑554‑0485, and [Wellness Plan Medical Centers – Dental] multiple sites in Detroit/Oak Park. Ask about sliding fees and Medicaid network. (dentalpatients.udmercy.edu)
• Oakland/Macomb — Community Options: [Honor Community Health] 1‑248‑724‑7600 (ask about Honor Cares discount program), [Wellness Plan – Pontiac] 1‑248‑897‑0900, and [HKD/Delta] 1‑866‑696‑7441 for kids. (honorcommunityhealth.org)
• Flint/Genesee & Lapeer: [Hamilton Community Health Network – Dental] 1‑810‑406‑4246, [Great Lakes Bay Health Centers] nearby Thumb and Saginaw sites, and [Michigan Oral Health Directory] for county clinics. (hamiltonchn.org)
• Grand Rapids/Kent: [Cherry Health – Cherry Street & Westside Dental] 1‑616‑235‑7289/7507, plus [Belknap Commons Dental Center] walk‑ins for urgent needs. Ask for interpreter services if needed. (cherryhealth.org)
• Lansing/Ingham: [Care Free Medical & Dental] 1‑517‑887‑5922 (low‑cost), [Forest Community Health Center] 1‑517‑887‑4302 (FQHC). Call early to confirm slots. (carefreemedical.com)
• Saginaw/Thumb: [Great Lakes Bay – Warren Ave Dental] 1‑989‑754‑7771; mobile dental at [GLBHC Smiles Are Everywhere]; use [Thumb Cares] for local help in Huron/Sanilac/Tuscola. (greatlakesbayhealthcenters.org)
• Traverse City/Northern Lower: [Dental Clinics North] via [SmileHelpNow], and [Northwest Michigan Health Services] dental sites; check [Michigan Oral Health Directory] by county. (smilehelpnow.com)
• Upper Peninsula: [Upper Great Lakes Family Health dental] (Calumet/Sawyer/Ice Lake), [Sault Tribe Dental] emergency walk‑ins (members and eligible patients), and [UPHP] plan line for dental help. (uglhealth.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Search [HRSA Find a Health Center] and dial [Michigan 2‑1‑1] to uncover smaller clinics or church‑partner days near your ZIP. (bphc.hrsa.gov)

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Budgeting and Paying Less

• Use sliding‑fee clinics: FQHCs and [MCDC] base fees on income; ask for an estimate up front. Many offer payment plans after the nominal initial visit. (mydental.org)
• Check coverage before major work: For root canals, crowns, or dentures, ask your Medicaid plan about prior authorization, frequency limits, and lab copays. Use your plan portal or call the dental line shown above. (mibluecrosscomplete.com)
• Avoid high‑interest financing: If a clinic offers third‑party financing, compare total costs first. Ask about in‑house payment plans at [U‑M Dentistry], [UDM Dental], or your FQHC dental office. (dent.umich.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Postpone cosmetic work and complete infection control first; book preventive cleanings at low‑cost clinics to avoid bigger bills later. Use [Michigan 2‑1‑1] for local funds or church programs that help with small balances. (mi211.org)

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Reality Check Boxes

• Wait Times: Expect 10–15 business days to get a non‑crisis intake at many community clinics, faster if you call at 8 a.m.; Medicaid application decisions can legally take up to 45 days. Keep backups on your calendar. (michigan.gov)
• Provider Shortages: Michigan has dental shortage areas; rural counties especially have fewer dentists per resident. If local slots are full, ask your plan for an out‑of‑area referral and mileage coverage. (commentary.healthguideusa.org)
• Plan Shifts: Dental networks moved across some plans in 2024–2025. Before every visit, call to confirm your dentist is still in‑network. (priorityhealth.com)

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FAQs (Michigan‑Specific)

1. How do I know if my adult dental work (like a crown) is covered?
   Check your plan’s dental handbook and call your dental line to ask about prior authorization for crowns, root canals, or dentures. The state expanded adult dental benefits in April 2023, but plans still apply network and prior‑auth rules. Use [MDHHS Dental Redesign] for a coverage overview and your plan’s [member dental pages] for specifics. (michigan.gov)
2. What if I need a ride with a car seat for my toddler?
   Tell the ride vendor when you book. Plans can arrange appropriate vehicles or allow you to bring your car seat. Book through [Modivcare] or your plan’s transportation line at least 3 business days ahead; mileage reimbursement is possible if a friend drives. (modivcare.com)
3. Can I get dental while I’m pregnant or right after birth?
   Yes. Michigan provides dental throughout pregnancy and for 12 months postpartum. Notify your plan to access maternity dental networks and ride benefits. Review [Healthy Moms Healthy Babies] and your plan’s maternity page, such as [Priority Health Maternity]. (michigan.gov)
4. My child has Medicaid—do I use Healthy Kids Dental or my medical plan?
   Use [Healthy Kids Dental] for kids and teens (up to age 21). You’ll be assigned to [Delta Dental HKD] or [BCBSM HKD]; both have hotlines and dentist finders. (bcbsm.com)
5. I was denied Medicaid. Can I still get low‑cost dental care?
   Yes. Book a sliding‑fee appointment at an FQHC via [HRSA Find a Health Center] or [MCDC], and appeal your denial within the window shown on your letter through [MDHHS]. Keep proof you appealed. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
6. Are there free dental days in Michigan?
   Yes, but they’re limited. The [MDA Foundation Mission of Mercy] hosts large free clinics; the next is June 2026 in Kalamazoo. For year‑round charity care, apply to [Dental Lifeline Network – Michigan DDS]. (foundation.michigandental.org)
7. What documents do I need when I apply for Medicaid?
   Photo ID, proof of Michigan residency, Social Security number (if you have one), and last 30 days’ income. Check your [MI Bridges] messages for any extra verification. (michigan.gov)
8. How fast will MDHHS decide my case?
   The state standard is 45 days for most Medicaid, 15 days for pregnant applicants, and up to 90 days for disability‑related cases. If it’s late, call the office and the [Beneficiary Help Line]. (michigan.gov)
9. We live far from a dentist. Who helps in rural areas?
   Use [Modivcare] for rides, check mobile options like [GLBHC Mobile Dental], and search [HRSA Find a Health Center] for the nearest site, even across county lines. (modivcare.com)
10. Where can I see county‑level use of Medicaid dental care?
    MDHHS publishes an [Oral Health Dashboard] with Medicaid oral health use by county (2016–2024), which can help you explain local access issues to your caseworker or plan. (michigan.gov)

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Spanish Summary | Resumen en Español

Este resumen en español fue producido con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre con las fuentes oficiales.

• Cómo aplicar: Use [MI Bridges] para solicitar Medicaid/Healthy Michigan Plan y para cargar documentos. Para ayuda técnica, llame al 1‑844‑799‑9876. (mibridges.me)
• Dentista para adultos con Medicaid: Llame a la línea dental de su plan ([Blue Cross Complete] 1‑844‑320‑8465; [Meridian] 1‑888‑437‑0606; [Priority Health] 1‑866‑558‑0280 vía Delta). Pida transporte si lo necesita. (mibluecrosscomplete.com)
• Niños con Medicaid (Healthy Kids Dental): Llame a [BCBSM HKD] 1‑800‑936‑0935 o [Delta Dental HKD] 1‑866‑696‑7441. (bcbsm.com)
• Emergencias dentales (mismo día): [UDM Dental – Urgencias] en Detroit (abre 7:30 a.m.) y [U‑M Dentistry – Urgencias] en Ann Arbor. (dentalpatients.udmercy.edu)
• Clínicas de bajo costo: [MCDC] (escala variable), [HRSA Find a Health Center] (FQHC), y [Directorio Oral de Michigan] por condado. (mydental.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• [Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) – Dental Redesign], [Healthy Michigan Plan portal], and [MDHHS Application Timelines]. (michigan.gov)
• [Healthy Kids Dental – BCBSM] and [Delta Dental] official pages. (bcbsm.com)
• [HRSA – Health Center Program] and [Find a Health Center] directories. (bphc.hrsa.gov)
• [Dental Lifeline Network – Michigan DDS] and [MDA Foundation – Mission of Mercy]. (dentallifeline.org)
• [Modivcare Michigan NEMT] and [MDHHS NEMT Rates (2025)]. (modivcare.com)

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.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information. It is not legal, medical, or insurance advice. Program rules change and local availability varies by county and provider network. Always confirm current eligibility, covered services, and costs with your health plan, the clinic, or the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services before you travel or pay for care. When in doubt, call your plan’s dental line, the [MDHHS Beneficiary Help Line], or use [MI Bridges] to check your notices. (michigan.gov)

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Notes on contacting agencies

• TTY services: Dial 711, then ask the operator to connect you to any number listed here. Most plans and clinics also support in‑person interpretation; ask when you schedule. Use [Honor Community Health] or your local FQHC for accessible formats upon request. (honorcommunityhealth.org)
• Office finders: Use the [MDHHS County Office Map] for local contact info, and [Michigan 2‑1‑1] for live, multilingual help 24/7. (michigan.gov)

If you need a human to walk you through this step‑by‑step, call 2‑1‑1 now and say: “Dental, Medicaid, ride help.” Then keep this page open while you talk.

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🏛️More Michigan Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Michigan

• 📋 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