Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in Washington
Dental Care Assistance for Single Mothers in Washington
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, no-fluff hub to help you get dental care for yourself and your kids in Washington. You’ll find exact steps, numbers, wait-time tips, and Plan B options if something doesn’t work the first time. Links are embedded right where you need them, and every program or agency name is clickable.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call or text a referral specialist at DentistLink (free statewide dental navigation) at 1-844-888-5465 for an urgent slot near you; they can also look for clinics taking Apple Health (Medicaid) and help with transport options like non‑emergency medical transportation (NEMT). (dentistlink.org)
- If you’re in severe pain or swelling, try a same‑day option: Community Health Center walk‑in dental (Snohomish County) accepts dental emergency walk‑ins 7 a.m.–2 p.m.; in Seattle, call the UW Dental Urgent Care Clinic (DUCC) at 1-206-543-5850; or ask Washington 211 to locate an emergency dental clinic closest to you. (chcsno.org)
- If you don’t have coverage yet, apply for Apple Health (Medicaid) today. Coverage usually begins the first day of the month you applied once found eligible, and you’ll receive a ProviderOne services card in about two weeks; call 1-855-923-4633 if you need help. (hca.wa.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy
- Dentist matching: DentistLink (statewide, free) — call/text 1-844-888-5465 for dentists accepting Apple Health or sliding‑fee patients. (dentistlink.org)
- Apple Health client line: Washington Health Care Authority (HCA) – Apple Health (Medicaid) — 1-800-562-3022 for coverage questions, card issues, and benefits. (hca.wa.gov)
- Transportation to appointments: Your local broker via HCA Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT); King County: Hopelink 1-800-923-7433. (hca.wa.gov)
- General help and referrals: Washington 211 — dial 211 or 1-877-211-9274 if 211 doesn’t work from your phone; you can also text 211WAOD to 898211. (wa211.org)
- Kids’ dental program: Access to Baby & Child Dentistry (ABCD) — enhanced benefits and help finding a toddler‑friendly dentist; King County families can call CHAP at 1-800-756-5437. (abcd-dental.org)
What Apple Health (Medicaid) Dental Covers in Washington
Why this matters: Apple Health is Medicaid in Washington. Adults and kids on Apple Health have dental coverage; you do not need a separate dental plan once enrolled. Use these benefits first before paying out‑of‑pocket anywhere else.
Apple Health covers dental care for adults (21+) and children (≤20) directly through your ProviderOne card. Covered adult services include exams, cleanings, x‑rays, fillings, extractions, dentures/partials, and front‑tooth root canals. Non‑covered adult services include implants, porcelain crowns, orthodontics, bridges, and molar root canals. Kids have full dental benefits, and Apple Health lists providers and how to get care. Find dentists through DentistLink, the HCA’s Find‑a‑Provider directory, or the national InsureKidsNow dentist finder. (hca.wa.gov)
Need the official details: HCA’s one‑page “Dental care for adults” flyer lists what’s covered (like periodontal care and nitrous/anesthesia when medically necessary) and what’s not; keep it handy before appointments. Check the flyer and the HCA’s “How do I get dental care?” page for current lists, then call to confirm since provider participation can change. See HCA adult dental flyer (HCA 22‑811, 01/25), HCA dental benefits page, and Washington Healthplanfinder dental FAQ. (hca.wa.gov)
Diabetes‑specific extra: Apple Health allows up to four periodontal maintenance visits per year for enrollees with diabetes to help control gum disease and blood sugar. Review the state handout, then ask your dentist to bill the added cleanings if you qualify. See HCA diabetes dental benefit and ask a DentistLink navigator if you need a clinic that offers periodontal care. (hca.wa.gov)
Reality Check — Rates and access: Washington reduced Apple Health dental fee‑for‑service rates effective July 1, 2025; the ABCD children’s program and orthodontics rates were not cut. Some clinics may limit schedules or wait lists due to lower reimbursement. Book early, confirm insurance acceptance, and lean on FQHCs that are less affected by the rate change. Read the HCA announcement and a summary from the dental society: HCA 6/23/2025 rate notice and WSDA update. (content.govdelivery.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DentistLink to search for clinics currently accepting Apple Health, try an FQHC with sliding fees like Sea Mar Community Health Centers or Neighborcare Health Dental, and ask about “standby” or walk‑in emergency blocks. If you run into coverage disputes, call HCA Apple Health customer service at 1-800-562-3022 to verify benefits and file a complaint if needed. (wsda.org)
Who’s Eligible and How to Apply (Adults, Kids, Pregnancy and After‑Pregnancy Coverage)
Start here: If your income is at or below 138% of the federal poverty level, you likely qualify for Apple Health as an adult. Children and pregnant individuals have higher limits. Apply online through Washington Healthplanfinder, or call 1-855-923-4633 for free navigator help. You can also manage your case via the Apple Health for You portal. (wahealthplanfinder.org)
Coverage start and your card: By rule, Apple Health coverage starts the first day of the month HCA decides you’re eligible; you typically receive your ProviderOne card about two weeks after approval. Keep your card with you for dental visits. See WAC 182‑503‑0070 (when coverage begins) and HCA apply/renew guidance. (hca.wa.gov)
After‑Pregnancy Coverage (APC): If you were pregnant, Apple Health now continues full coverage for 12 months after your pregnancy ends—regardless of income changes. The current income limit for APC is up to 210% FPL (with a 5% disregard included in HCA’s table). Learn the rules and example income amounts on HCA’s APC page, and see general pregnancy coverage info on HCA’s pregnant individuals. (hca.wa.gov)
Immigration status note: If you don’t qualify for federally funded Apple Health due to immigration status, you may qualify for Apple Health Expansion (AHE) with income up to 138% FPL (capped enrollment; dental is included). Managed‑care plan numbers for interpreter access are listed on HCA’s AHE pages. For broader newcomer supports, also see DSHS’ Office of Refugee & Immigrant Assistance (ORIA). (hca.wa.gov)
Documents to gather: For fastest processing, have monthly income info, Social Security numbers (if you have them), immigration info (if applicable), and dates of birth. See the HCA’s checklist under Apply or renew coverage and Healthplanfinder’s Get Coverage. (hca.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your online application glitches, call Washington Healthplanfinder at 1-855-923-4633 or the HCA Apple Health line at 1-800-562-3022. For in‑person help, use Healthplanfinder’s “find in‑person help,” or call Washington 211 to locate a navigator site near you. (wahealthplanfinder.org)
Quick Program Comparison (What fits your family right now)
Program | Who it’s for | Dental coverage | Where to apply / check status |
---|---|---|---|
Apple Health (Medicaid) | Adults ≤138% FPL; all eligible kids; pregnant individuals with higher limits | Adults: basic services; Kids: full benefits | HCA Apple Health for You, Apply/Renew, Dental benefits (hca.wa.gov) |
After‑Pregnancy Coverage (APC) | Anyone pregnant in last 12 months ≤210% FPL | Full Apple Health including dental | APC details + income table (hca.wa.gov) |
ABCD (Access to Baby & Child Dentistry) | Kids 0–5 on Apple Health; some kids with disabilities up to 12 | Enhanced preventive care; ABCD‑trained dentists | ABCD statewide, HCA ABCD billing guide (abcd-dental.org) |
Apple Health Expansion (AHE) | Adults 19+ with limited immigration status ≤138% FPL (capped) | Managed care includes dental | AHE overview (hca.wa.gov) |
How to Find a Dentist Who Accepts Apple Health
Start with live help: Call or text DentistLink at 1-844-888-5465 to get matched to clinics taking new Apple Health or sliding‑fee patients near you. You can also search HCA’s Find‑a‑Provider directory for fee‑for‑service listings and the InsureKidsNow locator for kids’ dentists. Ask for standby spots for pain or infection. (fortress.wa.gov)
Check clinic types that say “yes” more often: Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) like Sea Mar, Neighborcare Health Dental, and ICHS Dental accept Apple Health and offer sliding fees for uninsured visits. Use Washington 211 or the federal HRSA find‑a‑health‑center tool to search by ZIP code. (seamar.org)
For urgent care today: If you’re near Seattle, the UW Dental Urgent Care Clinic can handle pain, swelling, and extractions; call first for times and payment. In Snohomish County, CHC dental accepts walk‑in emergencies 7 a.m.–2 p.m. If you’re stuck, call Washington 211 for the closest emergency option. (dental.washington.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DentistLink to escalate your search, try neighboring counties via Washington 211, and ask FQHCs about cancellation “standby” lists. If a clinic says they don’t accept Apple Health but HCA shows they do, confirm with HCA Apple Health at 1-800-562-3022. (fortress.wa.gov)
Access to Baby & Child Dentistry (ABCD) — Priority Care for Little Kids
ABCD gives toddlers a head‑start: ABCD connects Apple Health families with dentists trained for babies and young kids. It covers extra preventive care and hands‑on parent coaching; kids with a Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) indicator can qualify up to age 12. Start with ABCD statewide, and in King County reach out through ABCD King County – CHAP at 1-800-756-5437. (abcd-dental.org)
ABCD = more frequent prevention: Many counties list ABCD benefits like fluoride varnish up to three times per year, two exams, and restorative treatment as needed. Read your county page (e.g., Clark County ABCD) and the statewide ABCD billing guide. If you need help getting to appointments, coordinate NEMT with your broker. (clark.wa.gov)
Legal backbone: ABCD eligibility and coverage are set in state rule and law; see WAC 182‑535‑1245 and RCW 74.09.390. If a dentist won’t bill ABCD codes, ask the office manager to check the HCA billing guide. (law.cornell.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call DentistLink for ABCD‑certified providers, ask your local health department’s ABCD coordinator (see county pages like Chelan‑Douglas Health District), or use the kids’ finder at InsureKidsNow. (cdhd.wa.gov)
Transportation to Dental Appointments (NEMT)
Book rides early: If you have Apple Health and no other way to get to care, call your county’s broker. HCA recommends contacting the broker 7–14 days before your appointment; less than two business days can be hard to schedule. See HCA NEMT for eligibility, what to have ready, and broker contacts by county. (hca.wa.gov)
Common brokers: King & Snohomish — Hopelink (King: 1-800-923-7433, Snohomish: 1-855-766-7433); Spokane — Special Mobility Services; Clark, Cowlitz, Klickitat, Wahkiakum — Community in Motion; Pierce, Kitsap, Grays Harbor, Jefferson — Paratransit Services; Yakima, Chelan/Douglas, Benton/Franklin — People for People. Check your county’s listing on HCA’s page before calling. (hca.wa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your dental clinic if they can move the appointment to a day with ride availability; call DentistLink to locate a closer clinic; or request gas vouchers/mileage reimbursement from your broker when you can get a ride from a friend or family member. If a broker denies a ride you believe is covered, file a complaint via HCA contact and note date/time of the call. (dentistlink.org)
Where to Get Low‑Cost or Free Care (Real Facilities Washington Single Moms Actually Use)
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): These clinics accept Apple Health and offer sliding‑fee discounts for uninsured visits. Try Sea Mar Dental (various counties), Neighborcare Health Dental (Seattle/Olympia), ICHS Dental (Seattle/Bellevue), CHC Snohomish Dental (Everett/Arlington/Lynnwood), Community Health Care (Pierce County) Dental, and Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic Dental (Central/Eastern WA). Use Washington 211 for more FQHCs near you. (seamar.org)
Mobile and charitable options: Watch for the annual Seattle/King County Clinic (free four‑day clinic—dental, vision, medical) and the ongoing Medical Teams International mobile dental clinics rotating across King, Pierce, Snohomish, and beyond. If you’re in Spokane, check the IDEA Clinic (Spokane District Dental Society). For those experiencing homelessness in Seattle, the Union Gospel Mission Dental Clinic serves eligible clients. (seattlecenter.com)
Dental schools: Student clinics can be a good budget option with supervised care. Call the UW School of Dentistry new patient line at 1-206-616-6996, or the UW Dental Urgent Care Clinic (DUCC) at 1-206-543-5850 for pain and swelling. Pediatric specialty care is available at The Center for Pediatric Dentistry in Seattle. (dental.washington.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DentistLink to book you into the next available slot anywhere within your travel range, and check Washington 211 for pop‑up events and county programs. If you can travel, widen your search to neighboring counties with shorter waits. (dentistlink.org)
Same‑Day and Next‑Day Care — How to Be Seen Fast
- Try emergency walk‑ins at FQHCs with daily urgent blocks, like CHC Snohomish dental emergencies (walk‑ins 7 a.m.–2 p.m., wait depends). For Seattle evenings, some private clinics like Emergency Dental Care USA (Seattle) list late hours; ask about Apple Health or sliding‑fee before going. Call DentistLink to confirm who is actually open today. (chcsno.org)
- For academic urgent care, call the UW Dental Urgent Care Clinic (DUCC) at 1-206-543-5850; expect to stay the full morning or afternoon clinic session and bring payment or Apple Health info. If you need an extraction or complex surgery, ask about a referral to UW’s Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic. (dental.washington.edu)
- Watch community events: The Seattle/King County Clinic (April 24–27, 2025) saw thousands for free dental, and similar outreach days appear through UW Dentistry news. Call Washington 211 to check for pop‑ups near you and for text alerts. (seattlecenter.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a DentistLink navigator to place you on multiple standby lists and to search adjacent counties. If pain is severe and you can’t get urgent dental, go to urgent care to manage infection while you secure a dental slot; then keep pushing for a next‑day appointment via Washington 211 and your FQHC’s cancellation list. (dentistlink.org)
County‑Specific Variations You Should Know
King County (Seattle area): If you cannot qualify for Apple Health due to immigration status, the King County Adult Dental Program (KCADP) may cover comprehensive care at $0; call 1-800-756-5437 (CHAP) to screen. KCADP partners with Medical Teams International for mobile clinics. Families can also tap ABCD King County for toddlers. (kingcounty.gov)
Spokane County: The IDEA Clinic is a sliding‑fee option for uninsured adults (small application fee); ask for current openings. Use DentistLink to find Apple Health providers and emergency availability. For mobile events, watch Medical Teams International postings. (ccwa.doh.wa.gov)
Central Washington (Yakima, Wenatchee, Tri‑Cities): Look to Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic dental sites, Moses Lake CHC Dental, and county ABCD programs (e.g., Chelan‑Douglas ABCD). If you need pediatric specialty or sedation, ask for referral pathways through UW’s Center for Pediatric Dentistry. (yvfwc.com)
South Sound and Kitsap: Try Community Health Care (Pierce) dental for walk‑in emergencies and Peninsula Community Health Services for Kitsap/Mason sliding‑fee care. For rides, confirm with Paratransit Services or Hopelink depending on your county listing. (commhealth.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Washington 211 to see if your county has a dental access project; ask DentistLink to search nearby counties with shorter waits; and check health department sites for local ABCD coordinators and event calendars. (wa211.org)
Regional Resource Snapshot (Examples)
Region | Go‑to clinics or programs | Phone |
---|---|---|
Seattle/King County | Neighborcare Dental, ICHS Dental, KCADP | 1-206-461-6943 (Neighborcare), 1-206-788-3757 (ICHS), 1-800-756-5437 (KCADP/CHAP) (neighborcare.org) |
Snohomish | CHC Snohomish dental emergency, Sea Mar Lynnwood Dental, DentistLink | 1-425-789-3789 (CHC after‑hours), 1-425-977-2580 (Sea Mar), 1-844-888-5465 (chcsno.org) |
Pierce | Community Health Care Dental, Medical Teams mobile Tacoma, Washington 211 | 1-253-722-2151 (CHC), see Medical Teams schedule, 211 (commhealth.org) |
Yakima & Central WA | YVFWC dental, Moses Lake CHC dental, ABCD local pages | 1-509-575-3399 (Yakima clinic), 1-509-766-8977 (Moses Lake) (yvfwc.com) |
Clark & SW WA | Sea Mar dental (Vancouver/Federal Way), ABCD Clark County, Community in Motion (rides) | 1-360-694-9997 (rides) (seamar.org) |
Non‑Emergency Transportation Brokers (selected counties)
County | Broker | Phone |
---|---|---|
King | Hopelink | 1-800-923-7433 |
Snohomish | Hopelink | 1-855-766-7433 |
Spokane | Special Mobility Services | 1-800-892-4817 |
Yakima/Chelan/Douglas/Franklin/Benton | People for People | 1-800-233-1624 |
Clark/Cowlitz/Klickitat/Wahkiakum | Community in Motion | 1-800-752-9422 |
See the complete broker directory on HCA NEMT and call at least 7–14 days in advance. (hca.wa.gov)
Paying for Dental If You’re Not on Apple Health
Before buying a private dental plan: Washington’s Insurance Commissioner explains that adults under 65 can buy dental only with a medical plan through Washington Healthplanfinder. Review network limits and exclusions carefully. See Office of the Insurance Commissioner dental page and Healthplanfinder’s dental coverage info. (insurance.wa.gov)
For kids on private plans: Pediatric dental is an essential health benefit; kids ≤18 must have dental coverage on or alongside a medical plan. If you can’t find a pediatric provider, the dental society runs a pediatric dental referral program for help. Also check the InsureKidsNow dentist finder if your child is on Apple Health. (wsda.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Price out sliding‑fee care at FQHCs like Sea Mar and ask about payment plans; sometimes the total cost is lower than a year of premiums and waiting periods. Use DentistLink to compare nearby options. (seamar.org)
Diverse Communities — Targeted Help and Access Tips
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your plan for free interpreter and member‑services help, and use inclusive clinics like Neighborcare Health and ICHS that note cultural‑ and language‑responsive care. For insurance selection support, call the Washington Healthplanfinder line and request an LGBTQ‑friendly navigator. (neighborcare.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apple Health provides extra dental cleanings and perio maintenance for enrollees with diabetes, and ABCD allows expanded benefits for kids with a DDA indicator up to 12. Ask HCA about disability‑related extra dental coverage, and use NEMT brokers for accessible rides. For clinic experience with special needs, consider the UW DECOD Clinic. (hca.wa.gov)
Veteran single mothers: VA dental eligibility is strict, but if you qualify under VA classes (e.g., service‑connected conditions or 100% disability), you can get care at a VA clinic; otherwise, look at discounted VA dental insurance (VADIP) via Delta Dental or MetLife. Learn eligibility on VA dental care, the VA Dentistry portal, and VADIP info. Pair VA resources with local FQHCs like Sea Mar. (va.gov)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: If you don’t qualify for Medicaid because of immigration status, check Apple Health Expansion (AHE) which includes dental (capped enrollment). For broader help with benefits, contact ORIA at DSHS, and use Washington 211 for local legal and navigation help. (hca.wa.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: Urban and tribal programs offer low‑barrier care. In Seattle, the Seattle Indian Health Board Dental Clinic accepts Apple Health and offers sliding fees; statewide tribal clinic info is referenced by the Washington DOH oral health page, and regional oversight is via the IHS Portland Area. Ask your tribal clinic for direct referrals and transportation supports. (sihb.org)
Rural single moms: Use HRSA’s health center directory and your county health department to find sliding‑fee dental and loan‑repayment‑funded providers. Ask your NEMT broker for gas vouchers or mileage reimbursement if rides are scarce, and call Washington 211 for mobile clinic dates in your area. (hca.wa.gov)
Single fathers: The same Apple Health dental rules apply; use HCA’s Apple Health portal, DentistLink, and NEMT brokers when needed. For navigating private plans, see the Insurance Commissioner’s dental page. (hca.wa.gov)
Language access: Free interpreter services are available through your Apple Health managed care plan; find phone numbers on the Apple Health Expansion page. Clinics like ICHS and Sea Mar provide multilingual staff. Ask clinics for large‑print forms and TTY via Washington Relay at 711. (hca.wa.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming you need to buy a separate dental plan while on Apple Health: Dental is included; don’t buy a duplicate plan. Verify with Washington Healthplanfinder’s dental FAQ and HCA dental benefits. (wahealthplanfinder.org)
- Waiting too long to book rides: Brokers want 7–14 days notice. Call your county’s NEMT broker as soon as you book the appointment. (hca.wa.gov)
- Not widening your search: If your city has long waits, search neighboring counties through DentistLink and Washington 211; ask about standby lists and walk‑in hours. (dentistlink.org)
Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps
- Provider participation shifts: Due to 2025 rate reductions, some clinics reduced Apple Health slots. Expect longer waits or limited procedures in some areas; book earlier and call to confirm coverage before you go. Read the HCA rate change notice and a WSDA perspective. (content.govdelivery.com)
- Application timing: Eligibility decisions can be quick, but cards take about two weeks to arrive by mail; coverage starts first day of the month you’re approved for. Use your ProviderOne number if you have it; keep a photo of your card once received. See HCA’s coverage effective rules and apply/renew page. (hca.wa.gov)
- Emergency rooms: ERs aren’t set up for dental procedures. Use urgent dental options first: UW DUCC, FQHC walk‑ins like CHC Snohomish, and DentistLink to locate same‑day care. (dental.washington.edu)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Need | Best first step | Backup |
---|---|---|
Urgent dental pain | Call DentistLink 1‑844‑888‑5465; ask for same‑day options | UW DUCC 1‑206‑543‑5850; Washington 211 |
Toddler needs a dentist | ABCD program enrollment | InsureKidsNow locator |
No ride to clinic | Call county NEMT broker | Ask broker for gas vouchers; reschedule to a day with rides |
Coverage questions | HCA Apple Health line 1‑800‑562‑3022 | Washington Healthplanfinder 1‑855‑923‑4633 |
No insurance, need sliding fee | Sea Mar Dental or local FQHC | Washington 211 to locate more clinics |
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Photo ID: Driver’s license, state ID, passport — use HCA Apply/Renew to see what’s accepted.
- Income proof: Pay stubs, award letters, self‑employment records — see Healthplanfinder Get Coverage.
- Household details: Birth dates, SSNs (if you have them) — per HCA application info.
- Pregnancy status: Due date or end date — for APC 12‑month coverage; see HCA APC page.
- Preferred clinic list: Three Apple Health clinics you’re willing to use — search via DentistLink and HCA Find‑a‑Provider.
If Your Application Gets Denied — Troubleshooting
- Read the notice carefully: Check the reason, the date, and what proof is missing. Then upload documents through Washington Healthplanfinder or call 1-855-923-4633 for help with verifications. For Apple Health client help, call HCA at 1-800-562-3022. (wahealthplanfinder.org)
- Ask for a reconsideration or appeal: You can request a fair hearing if you disagree. Start by calling HCA Apple Health to discuss the denial and deadlines, and ask where to send your appeal request. Keep a copy of everything you submit. (hca.wa.gov)
- Bridge your care: While the appeal is pending, use sliding‑fee clinics like Sea Mar Dental or Community Health Care, and let DentistLink know you’re in an appeal so they can refer you to the most flexible clinics. (seamar.org)
How to Stop a Dental Crisis in Washington Today
- Call or text DentistLink 1-844-888-5465 and ask for “urgent same‑day.” Mention your county and any ride needs. They can coordinate with clinics taking Apple Health and with mobile programs. (dentistlink.org)
- Try academic urgent care at the UW Dental Urgent Care Clinic (Seattle): call 1-206-543-5850 early; expect to stay the full session. For Snohomish County, walk into CHC dental emergency 7 a.m.–2 p.m. for triage. (dental.washington.edu)
- Use NEMT: Book transport through your HCA broker at least 7–14 days ahead; if it’s sooner, still call and ask for any available option or mileage reimbursement if a friend can drive. (hca.wa.gov)
Resources by Region (More Examples You Can Call)
- Seattle/King County: ICHS Dental, Neighborcare Health Dental, KCADP (if ineligible for Apple Health), Seattle/King County Clinic. (find-human-services.kingcounty.gov)
- Tacoma/Pierce: Community Health Care Dental, Medical Teams mobile Tacoma, Paratransit Services (rides). (commhealth.org)
- Everett/Snohomish: CHC Snohomish Dental, Sea Mar Everett Dental, Hopelink (rides). (chcsno.org)
- Yakima/Lower Valley: YVFWC dental, UW outreach days (check news), People for People (rides). (yvfwc.com)
- Tri‑Cities: YVFWC dental, Medical Teams mobile schedule, Apple Health support (HCA). (medicalteams.org)
- Spokane: IDEA Clinic (sliding fee), DentistLink Spokane, Special Mobility Services (rides). (ccwa.doh.wa.gov)
Tables — Wait Times and What You Can Do
Situation | Typical wait | What helps |
---|---|---|
FQHC routine adult exam | 2–8+ weeks depending on county | Ask for standby list; call at 8 a.m.; use DentistLink to find earlier slots nearby; request NEMT early. (dentistlink.org) |
Pediatric first visit | 1–4+ weeks; ABCD can shorten | Enroll in ABCD; ask for evening/saturday clinics like Sea Mar sites; check InsureKidsNow. (abcd-dental.org) |
Urgent pain (infection) | Same day to 72 hours | Call UW DUCC, use FQHC emergency walk‑ins like CHC Snohomish, keep phone on for “we had a cancellation” calls. (dental.washington.edu) |
Rides approval (NEMT) | Book 7–14 days ahead | Call broker as soon as you schedule; if late, ask about gas vouchers; see HCA NEMT. (hca.wa.gov) |
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support
- Project Access Northwest: Helps coordinate specialty care through partners; also supports DentistLink. Start with your primary care clinic for a referral. Learn more at Project Access NW and see its service area partners. (projectaccessnw.org)
- Medical Teams International: Free mobile urgent dental clinics across WA; check the clinic schedule and King County’s listing. Ask Washington 211 for upcoming events. (medicalteams.org)
- Seattle Union Gospel Mission Dental (for people experiencing homelessness): See services and volunteer‑supported care at UGM Dental. For broader homeless services and referrals, use Washington 211. (ugm.org)
FAQs (Washington‑Specific, 2025)
- Do Apple Health managed care plans include dental for adults and kids?
Yes. Dental is included in Apple Health; you do not need a separate dental plan once enrolled. Confirm the benefit at Washington Healthplanfinder’s dental FAQ, review covered services on HCA’s dental page, and ask DentistLink to find an accepting provider. (wahealthplanfinder.org) - When does Apple Health coverage actually start after I apply?
Per state rule, coverage begins the first day of the month you’re found eligible; your ProviderOne card typically arrives about two weeks later. Check WAC 182‑503‑0070 and HCA’s Apply/Renew page. (hca.wa.gov) - What if I can’t find a dentist taking Apple Health near me?
Use DentistLink to widen the search to neighboring counties; ask for standby/cancellation lists; and try FQHCs like Sea Mar Dental and CHC Snohomish. If a listed provider refuses Apple Health, verify with HCA. (dentistlink.org) - Can Apple Health help me get to appointments?
Yes, through HCA NEMT. Call your broker 7–14 days in advance; ask about bus passes, taxis, wheelchair vans, gas vouchers, or mileage reimbursement. (hca.wa.gov) - My toddler needs a dentist who’s good with little kids—where do I start?
Enroll in ABCD and ask your county coordinator (e.g., King County ABCD). You can also use InsureKidsNow to search by ZIP. (abcd-dental.org) - I’m a veteran but don’t qualify for VA dental—any options?
If not eligible under VA dental classes, consider discounted VA dental insurance (VADIP) via VA Dentistry and VADIP info. Pair this with sliding‑fee care at FQHCs like Sea Mar. (va.gov) - Is there free dental in Washington?
Yes, but supply is limited and events fill fast. Watch the Seattle/King County Clinic, Medical Teams mobile dental schedule, and county programs like KCADP. Use Washington 211 to check for pop‑ups in your county. (seattlecenter.com) - Do I need a dental plan for my child if we’re not on Apple Health?
Yes—pediatric dental is an essential health benefit. Buy a medical plan and select a pediatric dental plan through Washington Healthplanfinder; review the Insurance Commissioner’s dental page for tips. (wahealthplanfinder.org) - Who can help me file a complaint about a dentist or a plan?
For provider issues, see the Washington DOH complaint page and ask for the Dental Quality Assurance Commission process. For insurance problems, contact the Office of the Insurance Commissioner. For Apple Health discrimination or access issues, call the HCA civil rights & complaints line. (doh.wa.gov) - Where can I find clinics with many language options?
Try ICHS Dental, Sea Mar, and Seattle Indian Health Board. For interpreter access through plans, see the numbers on HCA’s Apple Health Expansion page. (hca.wa.gov)
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Esta guía ofrece pasos rápidos para encontrar atención dental en Washington. Para ayuda inmediata, llame o envíe un texto a DentistLink (navegación dental gratuita) al 1-844-888-5465. Si tiene Apple Health (Medicaid), la cobertura dental ya está incluida para adultos y niños; vea beneficios en HCA — Atención dental. Para transporte, pida viaje con su corredor local de NEMT con 7–14 días de anticipación. Si está embarazada o acaba de terminar un embarazo, revise After‑Pregnancy Coverage (APC) (12 meses de cobertura total). ABCD ayuda a niños pequeños en ABCD y InsureKidsNow. Para ayuda general y clínicas locales, marque 211 o visite Washington 211.
Nota: Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Washington Health Care Authority (HCA) — Dental benefits and Apple Health
- Washington Healthplanfinder — Get Coverage & Apple Health dental FAQ
- HCA Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)
- Access to Baby & Child Dentistry (ABCD)
- Washington 211
- Office of the Insurance Commissioner — Dental insurance
- Washington State Department of Health — Finding Dental Care
- UW School of Dentistry (Patient & Urgent Care)
- Seattle/King County Clinic
- Medical Teams International — Mobile Dental
Last verified September 2025, next review January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. 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 information is for general guidance for Washington residents and may change with new state budgets, provider participation, and agency updates. Always confirm current eligibility, benefits, and clinic availability directly with the program or clinic and keep records of dates, times, and names when you call. For medical emergencies, call 911.
🏛️More Washington Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Washington
- 📋 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