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Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in Utah

Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in Utah

Last updated: September 2025 — see the most recent benefit details on the official pages for Medicaid dental coverage at Utah Medicaid Dental Benefits, plan information at Dental Coverage & Plans, and CHIP coverage at Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). (medicaid.utah.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Keep These Five Contacts Handy

How Dental Coverage Works in Utah Right Now

Bottom line first: Utah now covers comprehensive dental services for all Medicaid adults age 21+, along with longstanding coverage for children and pregnant people, administered through statewide dental plans and the University of Utah network. Start at Medicaid Dental Benefits for covered services, confirm plan enrollment on Dental Coverage & Plans, and see the April 2025 expansion update reported by Utah News Dispatch. (medicaid.utah.gov)


What changed in 2025: Utah’s approved 1115 waiver authority explicitly states the state will “provide state plan dental benefits to all Medicaid‑eligible adults age 21+,” which DIH confirmed took effect in early 2025; cross‑check on About Utah’s 1115 Waiver and the annual MAC forum notice for program scope. The managed‑care page also lists current dental plan vendors (MCNA and Premier Access) and adult groups served by the University of Utah School of Dentistry (UUSOD) network. (medicaid.utah.gov)

For kids and teens: Children on Medicaid or CHIP get full dental, including cleanings, fillings, and medically necessary orthodontics under EPSDT; verify details on CHIP overview, see the policy manual section on Program Benefits, and consult EPSDT dental policy. (medicaid.utah.gov)

For pregnant Utahns: Pregnant Medicaid members choose a dental plan (MCNA or Premier Access) during pregnancy; plan contacts are on Managed Care — Dental Plans, while benefit specifics appear on Medicaid Dental Benefits and the Dental Coverage & Plans page. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Plan B if you can’t get in soon: Use the Utah Oral Health Program’s safety‑net directory to find sliding‑fee clinics, call 211 Utah to check same‑day openings, and consider urgent‑care options at Roseman Dental for temporary relief. (ruralhealth.utah.gov)

Quick table — programs at a glance (Utah, Sept 2025)

Program Who it helps What’s covered Cost notes Where to apply Key phone
Medicaid Adult Dental (21+) Adults up to Medicaid income limits Exams, cleanings, fillings, root canals, extractions, dentures; crowns for some $0–low copays; confirm authorizations Apply — DWS/myCase 1-866-435-7414
Medicaid Kids (EPSDT) Children under 21 Full preventive and restorative dental; some ortho Minimal/no copays Apply — Utah Medicaid 1-888-222-2542
CHIP Dental Uninsured kids not eligible for Medicaid Preventive and restorative dental No quarterly premium; small copays CHIP 1-877-543-7669
University of Utah Medicaid Network Certain adult groups and now broader adult access via expansion Network of >300 offices statewide Standard Medicaid cost‑sharing U of U Medicaid Dental 1-801-587-6453
Safety‑Net Dental Clinics Uninsured/underinsured Sliding‑fee preventive + urgent Income‑based sliding scale Find a Dentist (OPCRH) 2-1-1

Sources: Utah Medicaid Dental Benefits, Managed Care — Dental Plans, CHIP, myCase (DWS), and U of U Dentistry. (medicaid.utah.gov)

How to Apply for Medicaid or CHIP Dental in Utah

First do this: Submit an application online or by phone, then upload verifications quickly to avoid delays. Start at Apply for Medicaid, use myCase to track, and call DWS Eligibility if you need help in another language. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Typical timelines: DWS processing can take several weeks depending on workload; respond to every verification request by the deadline in myCase, and call DWS 1-866-435-7414 if your case stalls. Benefits can change mid‑year, so always reconfirm covered services on Medicaid Dental Benefits. (mydoorway.utah.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a Health Program Representative to review your case, call Medicaid Constituent Services 1-877-291-5583 if you can’t resolve it, and contact 211 Utah for nearby clinics that accept cash sliding‑fee while enrollment finishes. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Application checklist you can screenshot

Covered Services and Costs — What You Can Expect

Core covered dental benefits include twice‑yearly checkups, X‑rays, cleanings, fillings, certain root canals, extractions, dentures, and emergency exams; crowns are covered for certain populations and clinical situations. Confirm specifics on Medicaid Dental Benefits, find a plan on Managed Care, and ask your provider to submit any needed prior authorization. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Dental plan options (pregnant members and kids) include MCNA and Premier Access statewide; CHIP uses Premier Access statewide. Plan phone numbers and contracts appear on Managed Care — Dental Plans, with additional support from HPRs for provider searches. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Important reality right now: Utah enacted a statewide ban on fluoridation in public water in 2025, and some counties lost fluoridated water in May 2025; DHHS recommends pharmacy‑prescribed fluoride where appropriate and regular dental checkups. Read AP coverage, the DHHS advisory, and use DHHS Oral Health Program resources. (apnews.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a service is denied or delayed, ask your dentist to explain the denial reason from the Medicaid Coverage & Reimbursement lookup, then file an appeal per Medicaid Contact and schedule urgent palliative care with Roseman Urgent Care if you’re in pain. (medicaid-manuals.dhhs.utah.gov)

Cost and timeline quick reference

Item Typical range Where to confirm Notes
Medicaid approval time Several weeks; varies by case DWS Eligibility Respond to all verification requests fast
CHIP cost sharing No quarterly premium; small copays CHIP Cost‑Sharing Policy Preventive dental often no copay
Adult dental services scope State plan benefits for adults 21+ 1115 Waiver Page State confirmed expansion in 2025
Plan choices MCNA, Premier Access (Medicaid/CHIP) Managed Care — Dental Plans CHIP dental is Premier Access statewide

Sources: DWS Eligibility, CHIP cost‑sharing, 1115 Waiver, and Managed Care. (jobs.utah.gov)

Where to Get Care Fast (Even If You’re Uninsured)

Start with dental schools and FQHCs: Student clinics and community health centers offer lower fees with payment plans. Try U of U Dentistry 1-801-587-6453, Roseman Dental 1-801-878-1200, and your nearest FQHC via AUCH’s Find a Clinic for sliding‑fee scheduling. (healthcare.utah.edu)

Safety‑net and donated care: Apply to Salt Lake Donated Dental Services for discounted/donated slots (Salt Lake and Davis clinics) and review Dental Lifeline Network (DDS) Utah for statewide eligibility (low‑income and medically fragile), then search OPCRH Safety‑Net list for county clinics. (donateddental.org)

University of Utah Mobile Dental Clinic (rural dates): UUSOD brings teams to rural counties several times a year; review the mobile clinic schedule and ask for local wait‑lists via U of U outreach email dentaloutreach@hsc.utah.edu. (rhau.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use 211 Utah to identify churches or nonprofits running limited free‑care days, check Roseman community events like Give Kids a Smile, and call Midtown CHC Dental 1-801-393-5355 to ask about cancellations. (211utah.org)

How to Get an Emergency Tooth Extraction in Utah Today

First calls: Try Roseman Dental Urgent Care 1-801-878-1200, U of U Hospital Dental Clinic 1-801-587-6453, and U of U South Main Dental 1-801-587-2525 for same‑day triage. (rosemandental.com)

If unsheltered or recently homeless: Call Fourth Street Clinic Dental 1-385-234-5725 (sliding‑fee, Medicaid accepted) and ask for urgent hygiene and triage; see their appointment page for current service limits. Use 211 Utah for overnight shelter referrals. (fourthstreetclinic.org)

If you have Medicaid: Ask your plan to find an in‑network urgent slot via MCNA or Premier Access, or call U of U Medicaid Dental to book with an associated provider. If you have transportation barriers, ask about non‑emergency medical transportation listed on TAM benefits. (medicaid.utah.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit a hospital ED for uncontrolled facial swelling, fever, or airway issues; then schedule definitive dental follow‑up through OPCRH’s clinic list and U of U Dental. (ruralhealth.utah.gov)

Benefits for Pregnant Women, New Moms, and Kids

Act now: Pregnant members should select a dental plan (MCNA or Premier Access) and schedule preventive care in the first/second trimester. Start with Dental Coverage & Plans, view benefits on Medicaid Dental, and call HPR 1-866-608-9422 for help finding a provider accepting new patients. (medicaid.utah.gov)

CHIP for kids who don’t qualify for Medicaid: CHIP covers dental cleanings without copays and has small copays for other services; verify at CHIP, check policy at Program Benefits, and use the myBenefits look‑up link for plan details. (chip.utah.gov)

Special events for children: Watch for free care days like Give Kids a Smile (Roseman) and updates highlighted by Utah DHHS Oral Health Program; media notices like ABC4’s 2025 segment can help you plan. (rosemandental.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use AUCH’s clinic finder for pediatric dental openings, call Midtown CHC Ogden 1-801-393-5355 about its Children’s Health Connection days, and lean on 211 Utah for short‑term help. (auch.org)

Paying for Care When You Have Employer Insurance

Try Utah’s premium assistance: Utah’s Premium Partnership (UPP) can reimburse part of your monthly premiums if you enroll in employer coverage; it also supports children’s dental under certain options. Review UPP overview, see policy amounts in UPP Program Benefits, and call UPP 1-888-222-2542. According to DHHS policy (effective May 1, 2024), reimbursements are up to 300/adultand300/adult and 180/child monthly. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Caution about discount plans: “Dental discount plans” are not insurance; see the Utah Insurance Department consumer alert and call the Insurance Department before buying a card. (insurance.utah.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If employer options are too costly, re‑screen for Medicaid/CHIP on myCase, and compare student‑clinic fees at U of U Dentistry and Roseman Dental. (mydoorway.utah.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Salt Lake Donated Dental Services (SLDDS): Sliding‑fee and donated care for low‑income families, including dentures and root canals. See services and eligibility, Spanish details at Servicios, and the contact page for both Salt Lake and Davis clinics. (donateddental.org)

Community Health Centers (FQHCs): Find clinics statewide through AUCH, search DHHS’ safety‑net dental list, and call Midtown CHC — Ogden 1-801-393-5355 for dental scheduling. (auch.org)

Faith and community help: Use Utah 211 to find church‑based clinics and volunteer events, check the LDS self‑reliance Dental Resources page, and contact Catholic Community Services for refugee and low‑income referrals. (211utah.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 Utah to request a custom list of dental resources, search OPCRH’s regional table, and monitor Roseman outreach events for free days. (211utah.org)

Resources by Region

Wasatch Front (Salt Lake, Davis, Weber): Book at U of U South Main Dental 1-801-587-2525, ask Midtown CHC Dental about sliding fees, and try SL Donated Dental if you qualify. (healthcare.utah.edu)

Utah County & Summit/Wasatch: Use Roseman Dental 1-801-878-1200, search AUCH clinics by ZIP, and check U of U Dentistry locations if you can travel. (rosemandental.com)

Cache, Box Elder, Rich (Bear River): Start with OPCRH safety‑net guide, ask 211 Utah for current openings, and watch the U of U Mobile Dental schedule for rural events. (ruralhealth.utah.gov)

Washington, Iron, Beaver (Southwest): Contact regional FQHCs through AUCH, ask Doctors Volunteer Clinic about dental days in St. George, and search OPCRH county listings. (auch.org)

San Juan/Monument Valley (Tribal and rural): Call Utah Navajo Health System — Dental locations (Blanding, Montezuma Creek, Monument Valley), use IHS Phoenix Area Dental page, and plan ahead for U of U Mobile Dental events. (unhsinc.org)

Diverse Communities: Targeted Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask the Utah Pride Center for affirming provider referrals, call 211 Utah for clinics with LGBTQ+‑friendly notes, and report any discrimination to the Utah Insurance Department if it involves plan issues. (utahpridecenter.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Explore special‑needs access at U of U Dentistry, ask your HPR on Dental Coverage & Plans about sedation/general anesthesia locations, and request ADA accommodations when scheduling via the Medicaid Contact page. (healthcare.utah.edu)

Veteran single mothers: Check VA eligibility on VA Dental Care, call VA Salt Lake City specialty scheduling 1-801-582-1565 for dental/oral surgery, and consider VA Dental Insurance Program if ineligible via VADIP info. (va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Apply for kids’ State CHIP for non‑citizen children, contact Catholic Community Services — Refugee Services 1-801-977-9119, and ask the IRC in Salt Lake City for dental navigation. (chip.utah.gov)

Tribal members and moms in tribal communities: Book at Utah Navajo Health System dental sites, ask your service unit via IHS Phoenix Area Dental, and use OPCRH safety‑net directory when traveling off‑reservation. (unhsinc.org)

Rural single moms with limited access: Watch the U of U Mobile Dental Clinic calendar, schedule at the nearest FQHC via AUCH, and call 211 Utah to coordinate transportation help. (rhau.org)

Single fathers seeking dental help: All programs listed above are gender‑neutral; use Medicaid Dental Benefits, book via Managed Care — Dental Plans, and lean on OPCRH Find a Dentist. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Language access: Ask DWS for interpreter support during applications on DWS Eligibility, use CHIP translation services, and request language support when calling Utah Medicaid. TTY is available via Relay Utah at 7‑1‑1. (jobs.utah.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 Utah for culturally specific resources, check Utah Pride Center for inclusive providers, and contact U of U Medicaid Dental about accessible clinics. (211utah.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check: Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps

Access can be uneven across counties: Rural clinics may book out several weeks; DHHS is using incentives to increase rural provider participation, documented in the Medicaid Dental Manual. Combine Medicaid provider searches with OPCRH’s safety‑net list and call HPR if you hit a wall. (medicaid-manuals.dhhs.utah.gov)

Donated care often has wait‑lists: Dental Lifeline Network (DDS) sometimes pauses intake in specific counties (e.g., Salt Lake for under‑60); ask about exceptions for age 60+ and medically fragile applicants. Use SLDDS if you live in Salt Lake or Davis. (dentallifeline.org)

Water fluoridation ban increases cavity risk: With statewide restrictions enacted, DHHS advises fluoride prescriptions and frequent cleanings; follow DHHS guidance, and reference the AP report for policy context. (dhhs.utah.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Printable/Screenshot‑Friendly Application Checklist

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

First step: Read the denial letter in myCase and call DWS Eligibility 1-866-435-7414 to clarify missing items. Then escalate to Medicaid Constituent Services 1-877-291-5583 if needed. (mydoorway.utah.gov)

Request a fair hearing if necessary: Follow the appeals instructions on Medicaid Contact; keep copies of uploads and dates. While waiting, schedule sliding‑fee care through OPCRH Find a Dentist or AUCH clinics. (medicaid.utah.gov)

If still stuck: Ask a Health Program Representative to review eligibility categories; expansion adults now include comprehensive dental per 1115 Waiver and state updates in April 2025 on Utah News Dispatch. (medicaid.utah.gov)

County‑Specific Notes (Where Programs Differ)

Salt Lake County: Extra charitable capacity via SLDDS (discounted/donated care) and homeless‑focused Fourth Street Clinic Dental; Medicaid members can also book at U of U locations around the valley. (donateddental.org)

Weber/Davis: Call Midtown CHC 1-801-393-5355 for dental openings; Davis residents can also check the Davis Donated Dental program schedule. (midtownchc.org)

San Juan/SE Utah: Tribal and frontier areas rely on UNHS dental sites and occasional U of U Mobile Dental weeks; book early. (unhsinc.org)

Washington/Iron: Check Doctors Volunteer Clinic for free dental dates and AUCH clinics for sliding‑fee options. (mihp.utah.gov)

Extra Help for Orthodontics (Braces) on a Budget

For kids with significant need: The nonprofit Smiles Change Lives coordinates low‑cost braces with local orthodontists; families pay a small program fee if approved. Check the current fee and rules through state partner listings like Help Me Connect (MN page reflecting national rules), or contact SCL at 816‑421‑4949 and ask about Utah availability. Combine this with CHIP dental and FQHC referrals via AUCH. (helpmeconnect.web.health.state.mn.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s dentist to submit medical‑necessity documentation for Medicaid orthodontics under EPSDT per EPSDT Dental, and keep an eye on Roseman outreach for pediatric events. (medicaid-manuals.dhhs.utah.gov)

Tables — Side‑by‑Side Comparisons

Table — Who covers what for dental (Utah, 2025)

Group Medicaid CHIP Notes
Adults 21+ Covered under adult expansion 2025 N/A See 1115 Waiver and expansion update at Utah News Dispatch. (medicaid.utah.gov)
Pregnant Covered; choose dental plan N/A Plan details on Managed Care — Dental Plans. (medicaid.utah.gov)
Children (0–18/20) Covered via EPSDT Covered Benefits outlined in Medicaid Dental and CHIP Program Benefits. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Table — Key phone numbers for quick action

Service Phone Link
DWS Eligibility 1-866-435-7414 Contact Eligibility Services (jobs.utah.gov)
Medicaid HPR 1-866-608-9422 Dental Coverage & Plans (medicaid.utah.gov)
Medicaid Info 1-800-662-9651 Medicaid Contact (medicaid.utah.gov)
U of U Dentistry 1-801-587-6453 U of U Dentistry (healthcare.utah.edu)
Roseman Urgent Care 1-801-878-1200 Emergency Dental — Roseman (rosemandental.com)
Utah 211 1-888-826-9790 211 Utah (211utah.org)

Table — Where to go by situation

Situation First try Plan B
Severe toothache/swelling Roseman Urgent Care U of U Hospital Dental (rosemandental.com)
Uninsured, low income AUCH clinics SLDDS (auch.org)
Rural county U of U Mobile Dental OPCRH Find a Dentist (rhau.org)

Table — Fluoride changes and prevention

Topic Action Learn more
Fluoride access after ban Ask pharmacist/dentist for Rx fluoride DHHS advisory (dhhs.utah.gov)
Why it matters Higher cavity risk without fluoridated water AP coverage (apnews.com)
What you can do 6‑month cleanings + fluoride varnish for kids Medicaid Dental Benefits (medicaid.utah.gov)

Table — Donated/discount programs snapshot

Program Who qualifies Notes
Salt Lake Donated Dental Services Low‑income, homeless, Salt Lake/Davis See services/eligibility and Spanish Servicios. (donateddental.org)
Dental Lifeline Network — Utah DDS 65+, disabled, or medically fragile Check county intake status on Utah DDS. (dentallifeline.org)
Give Kids a Smile (events) Children only Watch Roseman outreach and DHHS news. (rosemandental.com)

FAQs — Utah Dental Assistance for Single Moms (2025)

  1. Do Utah Medicaid adults really have dental now: Yes. Adults 21+ now have state plan dental benefits after a 2025 expansion; verify on 1115 Waiver and news at Utah News Dispatch, and check covered services at Medicaid Dental. (medicaid.utah.gov)
  2. How long does approval take: It varies. Watch your myCase inbox for verifications, call DWS Eligibility 1‑866‑435‑7414 if stuck, and ask HPR for help once approved. (mydoorway.utah.gov)
  3. Which dental plan should I pick for my child: Utah uses Premier Access statewide for CHIP and MCNA/Premier Access for Medicaid kids; review Managed Care — Dental Plans, confirm benefits on CHIP page, and phone plan customer service. (medicaid.utah.gov)
  4. Can I get transportation to dental visits: Some Medicaid programs include non‑emergency medical transportation; see TAM benefits and ask your HPR via Dental Coverage & Plans. (medicaid.utah.gov)
  5. I’m uninsured — where can I be seen quickly: Use AUCH clinics for sliding‑fee care, check SLDDS for discounted/donated services, and ask 211 Utah for same‑week openings. (auch.org)
  6. Is fluoride still available for my kids: Yes, by prescription where indicated. Review DHHS guidance at this advisory and see statewide policy reporting at AP. (dhhs.utah.gov)
  7. Do dental schools take Medicaid: The U of U Dentistry network partners with Medicaid; Roseman accepts many insurances and provides urgent care. Call U of U 1‑801‑587‑6453 and Roseman Dental 1‑801‑878‑1200. (healthcare.utah.edu)
  8. Can refugees get dental help: Yes. Ask State CHIP for non‑citizen children for kids, request referrals from IRC SLC, and call Catholic Community Services. (chip.utah.gov)
  9. Veteran or Guard families — where to start: Review VA Dental eligibility, schedule with VA SLC 1‑801‑582‑1565, and check VADIP if you don’t qualify. (va.gov)
  10. I had a denial — who do I appeal to: Use the fair hearing information on Medicaid Contact, keep records in myCase, and continue care at sliding‑fee clinics via OPCRH while appealing. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

Acción inmediata: Solicite cobertura dental por Medicaid de Utah o CHIP, y llame al Representante del Programa de Salud (HPR) 1‑866‑608‑9422 para encontrar dentistas. Para dolor urgente, llame a Urgencias Dentales de Roseman 1‑801‑878‑1200 o Odontología de la Universidad de Utah 1‑801‑587‑6453. (medicaid.utah.gov)

Clínicas de bajo costo: Busque en el directorio del Programa de Salud Oral (OPCRH), use 211 Utah para recursos locales, y vea SL Donated Dental si califica. Recuerde que en 2025 Medicaid para adultos cubre servicios dentales para mayores de 21 años. (ruralhealth.utah.gov)

Niños y embarazo: CHIP cubre limpiezas sin copagos; revise CHIP, y para eventos gratuitos como Give Kids a Smile. Para idiomas, pida intérprete en DWS. (medicaid.utah.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

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 guide is informational and not legal, medical, or financial advice. Always confirm current eligibility, covered benefits, providers, and costs directly with your plan, the Utah Department of Health & Human Services, and the Utah Department of Workforce Services. Program rules and funding can change; verify availability by phone before traveling or scheduling. (medicaid.utah.gov)

What to do if anything above doesn’t work for you

Call 211 Utah and ask for a custom list of dental clinics taking new patients this week, re‑check OPCRH’s directory for county updates, and escalate benefits issues to Medicaid Constituent Services for review. (211utah.org)

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