Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in New Mexico
Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in New Mexico
Last updated: September 2025
This hub explains, step by step, how to get low-cost or no-cost dental care in New Mexico fast, what’s covered, who to call, and how to avoid common delays. Every program or organization mentioned is linked so you can act immediately.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call your Medicaid plan’s dental line and ask for a same‑day urgent dental appointment, transportation, and an interpreter if needed. Use these direct lines for Turquoise Care plans: Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico Member Services 1-866-689-1523, Presbyterian Health Plan 1-888-977-2333, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan 1-877-236-0826, Molina Healthcare of New Mexico 1-844-862-4543. (bcbsnm.com)
- If you’re uninsured or can’t wait for plan scheduling, call a nearby Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) for sliding‑fee, same‑day dental. Start with Presbyterian Medical Services dentistry 1-800-477-7633, First Nations Community HealthSource dental 1-505-262-6547, or find more clinics via New Mexico Health Centers finder and HRSA’s Find a Health Center. (pmsnm.org)
- For true free pop‑up care events (first‑come, first‑served), check NM Dental Association Foundation — events and Mission of Mercy, watch for Remote Area Medical Albuquerque clinics, and call 211 Helpline for current dates and local referrals. (nmdentalassociationfoundation.org)
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Medicaid help: New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) — Consolidated Customer Service Center 1-800-283-4465, YES.NM apply/renew online, Turquoise Care overview. (hca.nm.gov)
- Medicaid transportation (no‑cost rides): BCBSNM via Modivcare 1-866-913-4342, Presbyterian via Modivcare 1-855-774-7737, Molina via Superior Medical Transport 1-833-707-7100. (bcbsnm.com)
- Children’s dentists (Medicaid/CHIP): InsureKidsNow — Dentist Locator, HCA Medicaid kids coverage in NM, ADA Find‑a‑Dentist (general). (insurekidsnow.gov)
- Low‑cost teaching clinics: UNM Dental Medicine clinics (Albuquerque) 1-505-925-4031, Doña Ana Community College Dental Clinic (Las Cruces) — low‑cost care 1-575-528-7071, Texas Tech Dental Oral Health Clinic (El Paso) 1-915-215-6700. (unmhealth.org)
- If you’re unhoused or Urban Indian: Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless — Dental 1-505-242-8288, First Nations Community HealthSource — Dental 1-505-262-6547, IHS — Find Tribal/Urban Dental Clinics. (cabq.gov)
What “Turquoise Care” Means for Your Dental Coverage
New Mexico rebranded Medicaid managed care as Turquoise Care on July 1, 2024. Four managed care plans now serve most members: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico, Molina Healthcare, Presbyterian Health Plan, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan. Your plan handles your dental benefits, transportation, and care coordination. You can enroll or switch using YES.NM, review plan links on the Turquoise Care overview, or call the HCA help center at 1-800-283-4465. Expect the same covered services, plus some added value‑added services and new plan vendors. (hsd.state.nm.us)
- Reality check: Wait times can be real. HCA says it can take up to 45 days to process a new Medicaid application; renewals get extra time if requested. You can track your application online after 14 days and call 1-800-283-4465 for status. If you’re in pain, ask an FQHC for same‑day care while your application is pending. See I submitted an application — now what? and the renewal grace information from HCA, and confirm plan details on Turquoise Care FAQ. (hca.nm.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 1-800-283-4465 and ask for a same‑day callback from a Turquoise Care ombuds or care coordinator; escalate with your plan’s grievance line on your ID card; and book a sliding‑fee visit at an FQHC clinic while coverage is processed. (nmhealthcenters.org)
What Adult Dental Medicaid Covers in New Mexico
Adult dental is a covered “optional” benefit under NM Medicaid, with limits by service type. Rules set the frequency for exams and X‑rays, allow preventive and restorative care with prior authorization for certain procedures, and exclude cosmetic services. For example, adults 21+ are allowed one clinical oral exam every 12 months, and X‑ray frequency follows set timeframes (e.g., complete series every 60 months). Review benefit rules in 8.310.2 NMAC — Services, 8.310.2 NMAC — Prior Authorization, and the cross‑references in 8.310.4 NMAC. (law.cornell.edu)
- Tip: Children and teens under 21 get comprehensive dental through the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit; use the InsureKidsNow Dentist Locator or your plan directory to book care without delay. You can also search ADA Find‑a‑Dentist or the HRSA Health Center finder if you’re between plans. (insurekidsnow.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your dentist to submit a prior authorization with clinical notes; if denied, request your plan’s appeal form and a copy of the clinical policy; then file a fair hearing request through the HCA Office of Fair Hearings. Meanwhile, consider a reduced‑fee appointment at UNM Dental clinics or a student clinic like DACC Dental Clinic. (hca.nm.gov)
Your Plan’s One‑Stop: Dental and Transportation Contacts
Use this quick table to book dentists and rides through your Turquoise Care plan. If you need help choosing or changing plans, call the HCA helpline at 1-800-283-4465, check Turquoise Care overview, or manage benefits using YES.NM online. (hca.nm.gov)
| Plan | Member Services | How to find a dentist | Ride vendor and phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico | 1-866-689-1523 | BCBSNM find a dentist | Modivcare reservations 1-866-913-4342 | Medicaid dental administered with DentaQuest for BCBSNM; confirm network and PA needs. (bcbsnm.com) |
| Presbyterian Health Plan (Turquoise Care) | 1-888-977-2333 | Presbyterian provider directory | Modivcare 1-855-774-7737 | Call at least 48 hours ahead for rides; same‑day rides only for urgent needs. (phs.org) |
| UnitedHealthcare Community Plan | 1-877-236-0826 | UHC plan page (dental included) | UHC ride scheduling 1-877-236-0826 | Ask about bus passes or mileage reimbursement if you drive. (uhc.com) |
| Molina Healthcare of New Mexico | 1-844-862-4543 | Molina benefits & VAS | Superior Medical Transport 1-833-707-7100 | Molina lists value‑added dental support; call to confirm current dental vendor. (molinahealthcare.com) |
How to Get Emergency Dental Care in New Mexico Today
If you have swelling, fever, or severe tooth pain, act now. Call your plan and request an urgent dental appointment plus same‑day transportation. For BCBSNM, schedule rides through Modivcare; for Presbyterian, use Presbyterian/Modivcare; for UnitedHealthcare, call UHC Member Services for rides. If you are uninsured, call an FQHC like First Nations Community HealthSource — Dental or Presbyterian Medical Services dentistry for same‑day slots. (bcbsnm.com)
- Realistic timeline: Same‑day dental for infections is often available at student or community clinics. Teaching and residency clinics such as UNM Dental Medicine and Texas Tech Oral Health Clinic (El Paso) may be able to triage quickly; plan on 2–4 hours per student visit, with possible follow‑up for definitive treatment. FQHCs like El Centro Family Health Dental and La Clinica de Familia Dental offer urgent care appointments and sliding‑fee scales. (unmhealth.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Check upcoming free‑care events via the NM Dental Association Foundation — events and Remote Area Medical (RAM) Albuquerque; call 211 Helpline and ask for “dental — emergency extraction or infection” and for same‑day openings at FQHCs near you. (nmdentalassociationfoundation.org)
Where to Get Low‑Cost or Sliding‑Fee Dental Care
These clinics accept Medicaid and see uninsured patients on sliding fees based on income. They are used to working with busy single‑parent schedules and can often help with enrollment and rides.
- Albuquerque metro: First Nations Community HealthSource — Dental, First Choice Community Healthcare — Dental (South Valley, Los Lunas, Edgewood), and Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless — Dental are reliable starting points. For reduced‑fee advanced care, contact UNM Dental Medicine clinics. (fnch.org)
- Northern New Mexico: El Centro Family Health — Dental (Española, Peñasco, Las Vegas, Springer), plus regional FQHCs listed in the New Mexico Primary Care Association directory and HRSA Health Center finder. (ecfh.org)
- Southern New Mexico: La Clinica de Familia — Dental (Las Cruces), Ben Archer Health Center — dental services, and the Doña Ana Community College Dental Clinic offer care with payment help. (laclinicadefamilia.org)
- Southwest frontier (Grant/Hidalgo): Hidalgo Medical Services (HMS) serves Silver City, Lordsburg, and surrounding towns; call 1-575-800-1467 or the local lines on their site. Use the HRSA Health Center finder if you need more options. (npin.cdc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the clinic for an enrollment assister appointment for YES.NM and request “urgent dental triage.” If you are Native, ask for referrals to IHS/Tribal clinics or Albuquerque’s Indian Dental Clinic (AIDC). (hca.nm.gov)
Student and Teaching Clinics with Lower Fees
Student clinics take longer but cost less and are supervised.
| Clinic | City | Phone | What to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| UNM Dental Medicine clinics | Albuquerque | 1-505-925-4031 | AEGD residency and faculty clinics for comprehensive care; hygiene at Novitski Hall; Medicaid accepted; sliding fees available. (unmhealth.org) |
| Doña Ana Community College Dental Clinic | Las Cruces | 1-575-528-7071 | Low‑cost hygiene and expanding services; fall and spring schedules vary; call for current pricing and openings. (dacc.nmsu.edu) |
| Texas Tech Dental Oral Health Clinic | El Paso, TX (near Sunland Park/Las Cruces) | 1-915-215-6700 | Reduced‑fee dental care by supervised students; 2–4 hour appointments; occasional no‑cost events for seniors. (ttdentalcare.com) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to be seen in the emergency/triage block at UNM; check NM Dental Association Foundation events; and call 211 Helpline for the nearest FQHC that can see you this week. (unmhealth.org)
Free, Charitable, and Special‑Eligibility Programs
- Donated Dental Services (DDS) — for adults who are elderly (65+), permanently disabled, or need medically necessary dental care and cannot afford it. New Mexico’s DDS is coordinated by the NM Dental Association Foundation; all counties are currently open to applications. Apply through Dental Lifeline Network — New Mexico or read how it works at DLN Apply for Help; you can also learn about volunteering via NM Dental Association. Expect waitlists of several months. (dentallifeline.org)
- Pop‑up free clinics — watch for Remote Area Medical (RAM) Albuquerque events, and NM‑specific free denture and Mission of Mercy clinics via the NM Dental Association Foundation. Arrive before dawn; bring snacks and childcare coverage if possible. (cabq.gov)
- If you’re a veteran — check eligibility for free dental at VA Dental Care; if not eligible, buy discounted dental insurance through VADIP (MetLife or Delta Dental). Call MetLife VADIP 1-888-310-1681 or compare rates for New Mexico on MetLife VADIP rates. (va.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your local FQHC for a social worker referral; call 211 for small funds that help with gas or childcare; and if you’re over 60 with no means to pay, re‑apply to DLN/DDS with medical letters supporting urgency. (uwncnm.org)
Using Interpreters, Rides, and Childcare Help
Ask your plan to arrange language and ride services when you book. BCBSNM uses Modivcare; Presbyterian/Modivcare covers urgent rides; Molina uses Superior Medical Transport. HCA confirms statewide interpreter access in dozens of languages (via CTS Language Link) during Turquoise Care open enrollment events; call 1-800-283-4465 to request help. (bcbsnm.com)
- Pro tip: If a ride is late, call the ride‑assist line on your plan’s transport page (e.g., BCBSNM Ride Assist 1-866-418-9829; Presbyterian Modivcare 1-855-774-7737). Ask for reimbursement if you drove yourself; receipts and a completed mileage form are usually required. See BCBSNM transportation page and UHC LTSS ride FAQ. (bcbsnm.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a supervisor at your plan’s transportation vendor; if still unresolved, log a plan grievance and call the HCA helpline 1-800-283-4465 to report access problems. (hca.nm.gov)
Step‑by‑Step: Apply for Medicaid or Switch Plans
- Apply or renew online at YES.NM, by phone at 1-855-637-6574, or in person at an Income Support Division field office. The HCA can take up to 45 days for Medicaid determinations; check status after 14 days. Use the automated line 1-800-283-4465 for updates. (hca.nm.gov)
- Choose or change your Turquoise Care plan on the Turquoise Care overview page, which links to each plan’s sign‑up page. If a plan change is needed for dental access, you generally have 90 days from enrollment to switch; confirm in the plan FAQs. (hca.nm.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re stuck in plan selection or cannot reach an office, call 211 Helpline for a community assister, or ask an FQHC front desk to book you with an enrollment navigator the same day. (uwncnm.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- HCA helpline: Contact HCA 1-800-283-4465, YES.NM apply, Turquoise Care overview. (hca.nm.gov)
- Children’s dentists: InsureKidsNow Dentist Locator, ADA Find‑a‑Dentist, HRSA Health Center locator. (insurekidsnow.gov)
- Free/charity: Dental Lifeline Network — NM, NMDA Foundation events, RAM Albuquerque. (dentallifeline.org)
- Veterans: VA Dental Care, VADIP, MetLife VADIP rates. (va.gov)
- Urban Indian/IHS: IHS care finder, AIDC Albuquerque, First Nations dental. (ihs.gov)
Application Checklist (print/screenshot‑friendly)
- Photo ID: State ID, driver’s license, or school ID. Apply or upload through YES.NM; confirm what’s needed with the HCA helpline 1-800-283-4465; use your clinic’s enrollment assistance via New Mexico Health Centers. (hca.nm.gov)
- Proof of NM residency: A lease, utility bill, or school letter; ask your plan or clinic what they accept; find the nearest ISD field office if you lack documents and need guidance. (hca.nm.gov)
- Proof of income: Pay stubs or self‑declaration; upload via YES.NM account; if paid cash, ask an FQHC to help you complete an income affidavit. (hca.nm.gov)
- Pregnancy status: Bring a doctor’s note or positive test; plans offer care coordination; contact Presbyterian pregnancy programs for examples and resources. (phs.org)
- Children’s info: Birthdates and SSNs if available; use InsureKidsNow to find a dentist once enrolled; you can also search ADA Find‑a‑Dentist. (insurekidsnow.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing calls and mail: HCA may call for more information; renewals come in bright envelopes and via texts. Confirm your contact info on YES.NM, respond within requested timeframes, and keep copies; you can confirm with the HCA helpline 1-800-283-4465. (hca.nm.gov)
- Not using rides: Every Medicaid plan includes non‑emergency transportation for medical and dental visits. Book rides with BCBSNM Modivcare, Presbyterian/Modivcare, or Molina Superior Medical Transport at least 2–3 business days ahead. (bcbsnm.com)
- Skipping student clinics: Waitlists at private offices are long. Student and residency clinics like UNM Dental Medicine and Texas Tech Oral Health Clinic cost less and can handle complex cases under supervision. (unmhealth.org)
Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps
- Applications: HCA notes Medicaid applications can take up to 45 days to process (longer if disability‑based). Check after 14 days; keep your phone on; and upload documents quickly via YES.NM. (hca.nm.gov)
- Provider capacity: FQHC dental schedules can book out 2–8 weeks for routine care. Push for a “pain/infection” slot. If you face barriers, log a complaint and request help through HCA contact and your plan’s grievance system. (hca.nm.gov)
- Charity programs: DDS is life‑changing but waitlists are long; use DDS for comprehensive work while you manage infections at FQHCs. Apply via DLN New Mexico. (dentallifeline.org)
Resources by Region
- Albuquerque area: First Nations CHS Dental 1-505-262-6547, First Choice Community Healthcare Dental 1-505-873-7423, UNM Dental Medicine 1-505-925-4031. For people experiencing homelessness, AHCH Dental 1-505-242-8288. (fnch.org)
- Santa Fe, Española, Taos, Las Vegas: El Centro Family Health — Dental with clinics in Española, Peñasco, Springer, and Las Vegas; check the NMPCA map for more northern sites, and use HRSA’s locator for additional clinics. (ecfh.org)
- Las Cruces and Doña Ana County: La Clinica de Familia Dental, Ben Archer Health Center, and DACC Dental Clinic. Consider Texas Tech Oral Health Clinic across the border if schedules align. (laclinicadefamilia.org)
- Farmington, Gallup, McKinley/San Juan: Use the HRSA Health Center finder to locate northern and northwest clinics and watch for RAM or foundation events statewide. (hrsa.gov)
- Silver City/Lordsburg (Grant/Hidalgo): Hidalgo Medical Services 1-575-800-1467 offers integrated dental; call for schedules and sliding‑fee details; use HRSA locator for nearby sites. (npin.cdc.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Paths to Care
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your plan for an affirming dentist and note name/pronoun preferences in your chart. Clinics like First Nations CHS offer culturally responsive care; statewide FQHCs via NMPCA directory can connect you to supportive providers; language and ride support is available through HCA/Turquoise Care. (fnch.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply to Dental Lifeline Network — DDS if you’re disabled and cannot afford care; for kids with special needs, use InsureKidsNow Dentist Locator and your plan’s pediatric specialty network; request transportation and longer appointment slots via your plan contacts. (dentallifeline.org)
- Veteran single mothers: Check VA Dental Care eligibility; if not eligible, buy discounted insurance through VADIP or look into FQHC sliding fees via New Mexico Health Centers. (va.gov)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: Apply for Medicaid if you qualify and review updates like the DACA Coverage Bridge (2025); clinics can’t ask about citizenship for sliding fees. Ask for interpreters through your plan or clinic; HCA provides access to interpretation statewide through Turquoise Care. See HCA Contact for language help. (hca.nm.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re a member of a Tribe, Pueblo, or Nation, you may qualify at no cost through IHS/Tribal/Urban (I/T/U) clinics. In Albuquerque, the Albuquerque Indian Dental Clinic posts walk‑in hours; urban patients can also use First Nations Dental. (ihs.gov)
- Rural moms (frontier counties): Use HRSA’s locator and the NMPCA map to find the closest dental site, and schedule rides through your plan (e.g., BCBSNM/Modivcare). If travel is difficult, ask about mobile hygiene events hosted by FQHCs. (hrsa.gov)
- Single fathers: Everything in this guide applies to single dads, too. Men with custody or caring for a child under 19 can enroll their kids via InsureKidsNow and manage coverage via YES.NM. FQHCs listed on NM Health Centers see everyone, regardless of gender. (insurekidsnow.gov)
- Language access and accessibility: Ask for large‑print forms, TTY (711), and in‑person interpreters through your plan or clinic. HCA’s customer service supports text/phone requests, and plans commit to language access; see HCA Contact and your plan’s “Non‑Discrimination” notice. (hca.nm.gov)
County‑Level Variations That Matter
- Guadalupe (Santa Rosa) and Hidalgo (Lordsburg) ISD office hours: These two counties have limited ISD lobby hours, so plan ahead or apply online using YES.NM; check the official ISD field offices page for current schedules. For Southwest care, Hidalgo Medical Services (HMS) is the main FQHC. (hca.nm.gov)
- Bernalillo (Albuquerque): More clinic options exist, but waitlists can be longer. Use AHCH Dental if you’re unhoused; for urgent cases, ask UNM Dental Medicine for emergency triage blocks. Transportation through BCBSNM/Modivcare is robust in metro areas. (cabq.gov)
- Northern counties (Rio Arriba/Taos/San Miguel/Colfax): El Centro Family Health operates multiple dental sites; call early in the day for cancellations and urgent slots. Cross‑check options via the NMPCA directory if a site is full. (ecfh.org)
How to Stop a Dental Bill From Blowing Up Your Budget
- Ask for the clinic’s “prompt‑pay” or sliding fee discount before your visit. FQHCs like Presbyterian Medical Services dentistry and El Centro Family Health Dental can reduce costs if you bring income documents. If you’re newly uninsured after redetermination, use HCA/YES.NM for coverage options and appeal rights. (pmsnm.org)
- Book with student clinics like UNM Dental Medicine or Texas Tech Oral Health Clinic, which publish lower fee schedules. For dentures or complex work, watch NMDAF free denture clinic. (unmhealth.org)
Shortcuts for Kids’ Dental Care
- Use the InsureKidsNow Dentist Locator and search “pediatric dentistry” within your ZIP. If your child has special needs, ask your plan for a pediatric specialist; you can also try ADA Find‑a‑Dentist and HRSA Health Centers for backup providers. (insurekidsnow.gov)
- School‑based health centers in New Mexico sometimes include dental services (sealants, screenings). Learn how SBHCs work through the HCA/DOH SBHC project page and check local school communications. (hsd.state.nm.us)
Off‑Topic but Useful: How to Stop Utility Shutoff in New Mexico Today
If you’re choosing between a dental visit and keeping the lights on, call these two first. Call 211 Helpline for local utility help; ask HCA’s Income Support Division about energy help through LIHEAP at 1-888-523-0051 (listed under HCA’s contacts); and use YES.NM to apply for help. Keeping utilities on can make it easier to store antibiotics and keep follow‑up appointments. (uwncnm.org)
Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied
- Ask why: Request the denial reason in writing from HCA, then fix the specific missing item (proof of income or residency). You can re‑upload via YES.NM. For appeals, request a fair hearing before the deadline. (hca.nm.gov)
- Bridge your care: Book at an FQHC via New Mexico Health Centers, apply to DLN/DDS, and ask your clinic for a payment plan. (nmhealthcenters.org)
Tables You Can Save
A. Fast‑Dial Directory for Dental and Rides
| Who | Purpose | Phone | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| HCA Customer Service | Medicaid questions/enrollment | 1-800-283-4465 | HCA Contact |
| BCBSNM Modivcare | Schedule rides | 1-866-913-4342 | BCBSNM transportation |
| Presbyterian Modivcare | Schedule rides | 1-855-774-7737 | Presbyterian transportation |
| UHC rides | Schedule rides | 1-877-236-0826 | UHC ride FAQ |
| Molina rides | Schedule rides | 1-833-707-7100 | Molina transport |
B. Key Low‑Cost Dental Networks
| Network | Where | Highlights | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| FQHCs statewide | Statewide | Sliding fees; Medicaid accepted | NM Health Centers — finder |
| UNM Dental Medicine | Albuquerque | Residency and faculty clinics; hygiene clinic | UNM Dentistry |
| El Centro Family Health Dental | North/Northeast | Multiple northern dental sites | El Centro Dental |
| PMS Dentistry | Many towns | Same‑day pain slots in many clinics | PMS Dentistry |
| La Clinica de Familia Dental | Las Cruces | Comprehensive dental; sliding fees | LCDF Dental |
C. Children’s Dental Access Shortcuts
| Need | Tool | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Pediatric dentists taking Medicaid | InsureKidsNow | Dentist Locator |
| Extra options | ADA directory | Find‑a‑Dentist |
| Backup clinics | HRSA health centers | Find a Health Center |
D. Free and Charitable Care
| Program | Who qualifies | Notes | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Lifeline Network / DDS | Adults 65+, disabled, or medically fragile | Comprehensive care; long waitlists | DLN — NM |
| NMDA Foundation clinics | Anyone; first‑come | Watch for Mission of Mercy/denture events | NMDAF — events |
| Remote Area Medical (RAM) | Anyone; first‑come | Pop‑up dental/vision/medical | RAM — Albuquerque |
E. Enrollment Timing and What to Expect
| Step | Typical timeframe | Where to track |
|---|---|---|
| Submit application | Day 0 | YES.NM portal |
| Check status | Day 14 | HCA “Now What” |
| Decision | Up to 45 days | HCA helpline 1-800-283-4465 |
F. Teaching Clinics — Plan Your Visit
| Clinic | Appointment length | Fee approach | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| UNM Dental Medicine | 2–4 hours typical | Lower fees; Medicaid accepted | UNM Dentistry |
| DACC Dental Clinic | 2–3+ hours | Many services low‑cost | DACC Dental |
| Texas Tech Oral Health Clinic | 2–4 hours | Reduced fees; periodic no‑cost events | TT OHC |
FAQs (New Mexico, 2025)
- What adult dental care does NM Medicaid cover now?
Adults 21+ can get diagnostic, preventive, and restorative care with some limits and prior authorization rules (e.g., one routine exam every 12 months, X‑ray timing rules). See 8.310.2 NMAC Services, 8.310.2 prior‑authorization notes, and ask your plan about specific procedures. (law.cornell.edu) - How long will my application take?
HCA says up to 45 days for Medicaid applications. Check after 14 days in YES.NM, and call 1-800-283-4465 with questions. If you’re in pain, book a sliding‑fee visit at an FQHC while you wait. (hca.nm.gov) - Can my plan get me to the dentist if I have no car?
Yes. Rides to dental visits are covered. Schedule rides through BCBSNM Modivcare, Presbyterian/Modivcare, UHC, or Molina. (bcbsnm.com) - Where can I find a pediatric dentist who takes Medicaid?
Use the InsureKidsNow Dentist Locator, search the ADA directory, or book a community dentist via HRSA’s finder. (insurekidsnow.gov) - Do I need an interpreter?
Yes—ask your plan/clinic to provide one at no cost. HCA supports language access statewide; contact HCA or request an interpreter when you book. (hca.nm.gov) - I’m Native and live off‑reservation. Where can I go?
Try IHS/Tribal/Urban (I/T/U) facilities and urban clinics like First Nations CHS. Albuquerque’s Indian Dental Clinic posts emergency hours. (ihs.gov) - What if the clinic wants payment up front?
Ask for a sliding‑fee discount and a payment plan. FQHCs such as PMS and El Centro will set fees based on income. If uninsured, apply through YES.NM. (pmsnm.org) - Can I get dentures for free?
Sometimes. Watch for NMDAF denture clinics, and if you’re elderly/disabled/medically fragile, apply to DLN/DDS. Teaching clinics like UNM offer reduced‑fee prosthetics. (nmdentalassociationfoundation.org) - I’m a veteran—how can I get dental care?
Check eligibility at VA Dental Care. If you’re not eligible for VA dental, purchase discounted plans via VADIP. (va.gov) - How do I complain if a facility refuses to see me?
File a complaint with the HCA Health Facility Complaints Hotline 1-800-752-8649, and with the NM Regulation & Licensing Department Dental Board. Also, document the issue with your plan and request care coordination. (hca.nm.gov)
Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español
Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA. Verifique enlaces y teléfonos oficiales antes de tomar decisiones.
- Medicaid (Turquoise Care): Aplique/renueve por YES.NM, llame al Centro de Servicio al Cliente de HCA 1-800-283-4465, y vea Turquoise Care. Planes: BCBSNM, Presbyterian, UnitedHealthcare, Molina. (hca.nm.gov)
- Transporte e intérpretes: Pida transporte sin costo con BCBSNM/Modivcare, Presbyterian/Modivcare o Molina/Superior. Solicite intérprete al programar. (bcbsnm.com)
- Clínicas de bajo costo: UNM Odontología (Albuquerque) 1-505-925-4031, La Clínica de Familia — Dental (Las Cruces), El Centro Family Health — Dental, Busque Centros de Salud. (unmhealth.org)
- Dentistas para niños: Buscador InsureKidsNow, ADA Find‑a‑Dentist, HRSA — Centros de Salud. (espanol.insurekidsnow.gov)
- Atención gratuita: Fundación Dental NM — eventos, Dental Lifeline Network — NM, RAM — clínicas. Llame al 211 para recursos locales. (nmdentalassociationfoundation.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA)
- Turquoise Care — Medicaid plans (HCA)
- YES.NM — Apply/Renew
- 8.310.2 NMAC — Dental Services
- UNM Department of Dental Medicine
- New Mexico Health Centers (NMPCA/HRSA)
- Dental Lifeline Network — New Mexico
- VA Dental Care and VADIP
Last verified: September 2025, next review 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 is general information for New Mexico single parents seeking dental care. It is not legal advice or a guarantee of benefits. Always confirm coverage and availability with your plan, clinic, or the New Mexico Health Care Authority. Benefit levels and clinic schedules change due to funding and staffing; verify before traveling.
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- ⚡ 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
