Mountainside Dental Group

Tag: dental insurance

Dentists That Accept Medi-Cal in California: 2026 Guide
Medi-Cal restored full adult dental benefits through the Denti-Cal program in January 2022. The benefit package is comprehensive, but finding a participating provider is often the slow part. Here is how to search the official directory, what to bring to your first appointment, and where to look if no provider near you has openings.

Mountainside Dental Is Not a Medi-Cal Provider

Mountainside Dental does not accept Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal at any of our five Southern California locations. We are a private practice with our own insurance and financing options, including in-network coverage with most major dental insurance carriers and an in-house savings plan for patients without insurance. The guide below is informational only. To use Medi-Cal benefits, find a separately enrolled Denti-Cal provider.

How Medi-Cal Dental Works in California

The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) administers Medi-Cal dental benefits through the Denti-Cal program. Adult benefits were limited from 2009 until 2022, when Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation restoring comprehensive coverage. Eligible adults can now access preventive, restorative, surgical, and emergency dental services.

Two Delivery Models

Fee-for-Service

Most counties

Visit any enrolled Denti-Cal provider without a referral. The state pays the provider directly.

Managed Care

Some counties

Used in counties like Sacramento and Los Angeles. Select a dentist within the plan’s network.

Costs

$0 to $3

Most covered services have no copay. Some managed care plans charge $1 to $3. No deductibles, no annual maximums.

5 Ways to Find a Dentist That Accepts Medi-Cal

Provider Search Methods

1

Use the Official Denti-Cal Provider Directory

Search dental.dhcs.ca.gov by ZIP code, city, language, or specialty. The directory only lists currently enrolled providers, so it is the most current source.

2

Call the Denti-Cal Beneficiary Line

Call 1-800-322-6384. Representatives can locate enrolled dentists near you and confirm what your plan covers.

3

Confirm Acceptance Directly With the Office

Provider lists lag behind real availability. Before scheduling, ask the office two things: Are you currently accepting new Medi-Cal patients, and do you accept my plan type (fee-for-service or managed care)?

4

Try a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)

FQHCs accept Medi-Cal as a rule and often have on-site dental services. When private offices have long waits, FQHCs are usually the next best move.

5

Consider a Dental School Clinic

USC, UCLA, Loma Linda, and other California dental schools run clinics that accept Medi-Cal and offer reduced fees. Appointments take longer because supervised students do the work, but the care is high quality.

What to Bring to Your First Visit

1

Benefits Identification Card (BIC)

Your Medi-Cal BIC card proves eligibility. Bring the physical card to your appointment.

2

Photo ID

A driver’s license, state ID, or other government-issued photo identification.

3

Medication List

A current list of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications you take, including dosages.

4

Health History

Notes on relevant medical conditions, allergies, and recent dental work if available.

What Medi-Cal Dental Covers for Adults

Once you find a participating provider, the following services are covered for eligible adult Medi-Cal members. Some procedures require prior authorization, which the dental office submits on your behalf. For a full breakdown of services, frequency limits, and the authorization process, see our companion guide on Medi-Cal adult dental coverage.
- Oral exams and cleanings (typically twice yearly)
- X-rays, including bitewing, periapical, and panoramic
- Fillings, both amalgam and composite
- Crowns (prior authorization required)
- Root canal therapy
- Simple and surgical extractions, including impacted wisdom teeth
- Full and partial dentures, denture relines and repairs
- Fixed bridges (prior authorization required)
- Scaling and root planing for gum disease
- Emergency dental care
What Medi-Cal Does Not Cover
- Cosmetic procedures such as whitening and veneers
- Adult orthodontics in most cases
- Dental implants outside of rare medical exceptions
- Services beyond plan frequency limits
- Treatment from non-enrolled providers
What to Do If You Cannot Find a Medi-Cal Provider Nearby

Provider shortages are common in California, particularly in rural counties and parts of Southern California. Denti-Cal reimbursement rates are lower than private insurance, so many practices choose not to enroll. The result is fewer open appointments than the eligible population needs.

A few ways to widen your search:
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) typically have more capacity than private offices
- Dental school clinics offer reduced fees and accept Medi-Cal
- Some counties have community dental clinics specifically designed for Medi-Cal patients
- Expanding your search radius, even by 30 to 45 minutes, often opens up more options
Mountainside Dental’s Insurance and Payment Options

Mountainside Dental is not enrolled in Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal. For patients comparing alternatives, our practice offers three paths, all detailed on our Insurance and Financing page.

1. Private dental insurance: We accept most major carriers, including Delta Dental, Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, MetLife, Guardian, Humana, Ameritas, and United Healthcare.

2. In-house savings plan: For patients without insurance, our in-house savings plan covers preventive care and discounts other procedures. This is a private membership program run directly by our practice, not government insurance. There are no networks, claim forms, deductibles, or annual maximums.
- 2 professional cleanings per year
- Routine exams and X-rays
- 1 emergency exam per year
- 10% off all other procedures
Pricing: $27 to $36 per month depending on location. Same-day enrollment available at any of our five Southern California offices.

3. Self-pay with financing: We accept CareCredit and similar third-party financing for larger treatments. Our guide to dental financing breaks down how it works.

“Top notch customer service. Mountainside is a well oiled machine.”

Robert H., La Quinta

Mountainside Dental Locations

La Quinta

78461 CA-111
760-492-7993

Yucaipa

11834 Bryant St., Ste. #104
909-378-8934

Rancho Mirage

42500 Bob Hope Dr STE 1
760-412-8373

Rancho Santa Margarita

29941 Aventura, Suite B
949-368-0193

Lake Forest

23731 El Toro Rd. Unit D
949-881-4928

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Mountainside Dental accept Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal?

No. Mountainside Dental does not accept Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal at any of our five Southern California locations. We are a private practice. For Medi-Cal benefits, use the Denti-Cal provider directory at dental.dhcs.ca.gov or call 1-800-322-6384 to find an enrolled provider.

How do I find a dentist in California that accepts Medi-Cal?

Start with the official Denti-Cal provider directory at dental.dhcs.ca.gov. You can search by ZIP code and specialty. If you prefer to talk to someone, call the Denti-Cal beneficiary line at 1-800-322-6384. Federally Qualified Health Centers and dental school clinics are reliable fallback options.

What documents do I need for my first Medi-Cal dental appointment?

Bring your Benefits Identification Card (BIC), a photo ID, a current list of medications, and any relevant health history notes.

Why do so few dentists accept Medi-Cal in California?

Denti-Cal reimbursement rates are lower than private insurance, and the administrative requirements are higher. As a result, many practices choose not to enroll. This creates a gap between the number of eligible patients and the available providers, especially in rural areas.

What if I cannot find a Medi-Cal dentist near me?

FQHCs accept Medi-Cal as a rule and tend to have more capacity than private offices. Dental school clinics at USC, UCLA, and Loma Linda are another option. You can also call your county’s public health department for community dental resources.

Is there a cost for Medi-Cal dental services?

Most covered services have no copay for adults. Some managed care plans charge $1 to $3. There are no deductibles or annual maximums under Denti-Cal.

If I do not have Medi-Cal, what options does Mountainside Dental offer?

We accept most major private dental insurance carriers, offer a private in-house savings plan starting at $27 per month, and accept third-party financing through CareCredit. Full details are on our Insurance and Financing page. The in-house plan is a private membership program, not Medi-Cal or any form of government insurance.

Looking for a Private Dental Practice in Southern California?

If you do not have Medi-Cal coverage and want to compare insurance, in-house savings, or financing options, our Insurance and Financing page lays everything out.

View Insurance & Financing

Mountainside Dental is not a Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal provider.
April 12, 2026
Does Medi-Cal Cover Dental for Adults? 2026 Guide
California restored full adult dental benefits through Medi-Cal in January 2022, reversing cuts in place since the 2009 recession. Eligible adults can use the Denti-Cal program for preventive care, restorative treatment, oral surgery, and emergencies. Below is what the program covers in 2026, what it does not cover, and how delivery works.

Mountainside Dental Is Not a Medi-Cal Provider

Mountainside Dental does not accept Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal at any of our five Southern California locations. We are a private practice with our own insurance and financing options, including in-network coverage with most major dental insurance carriers and an in-house savings plan for patients without insurance. This article is informational only. To use Medi-Cal benefits, find a Denti-Cal provider at dental.dhcs.ca.gov or call 1-800-322-6384.

Medi-Cal Adult Dental Coverage Overview

The California Department of Health Care Services administers Medi-Cal dental benefits through the Denti-Cal program. Coverage was reduced to emergency-only services from 2009 to 2014, partially expanded in 2014, and fully restored on January 1, 2022.

Adult Medi-Cal members now receive a comprehensive benefit package: no deductibles, no annual maximums, and minimal or no copays for covered services.

What Medi-Cal Dental Covers for Adults

✓

Preventive and Diagnostic Care

Oral exams (typically twice yearly), cleanings, X-rays (bitewing, periapical, panoramic), fluoride treatments, and oral cancer screenings.

✓

Restorative Care

Fillings (amalgam and composite), crowns (with prior authorization), root canal therapy, and core buildups and posts.

✓

Oral Surgery

Simple and surgical extractions, impacted wisdom tooth removal, abscess drainage, and infection treatment.

✓

Tooth Replacement

Full and partial dentures, denture relines and repairs, and fixed bridges with prior authorization.

✓

Periodontal Care

Scaling and root planing, periodontal maintenance, and gum surgery with authorization.

✓

Emergency Care

Emergency exams and X-rays, pain management, emergency extractions, and infection treatment.

What Medi-Cal Does Not Cover

Denti-Cal excludes several categories of care, even for eligible adults:
- Cosmetic procedures such as whitening and veneers
- Adult orthodontics in most cases (braces, clear aligners)
- Dental implants outside of rare medical exceptions
- Services that exceed plan frequency limits
- Treatment provided by non-enrolled providers
- Procedures performed without required prior authorization
How Denti-Cal Delivery Works

Fee-for-Service

Most counties

Patients can visit any enrolled Denti-Cal provider without a referral. The state pays the provider directly.

Managed Care

Specific counties

Used in Sacramento, Los Angeles, and a few others. Patients choose a dentist within the plan’s network.

Costs to Patient

$0 to $3

No deductibles or annual maximums. Most services have no copay. Some managed care plans charge $1 to $3.

Prior Authorization: How It Works

Authorization Process

1

Dentist Identifies the Need

Procedures like crowns, fixed bridges, dentures in some cases, periodontal surgery, and certain oral surgeries require advance approval from Denti-Cal.

2

Treatment Authorization Request (TAR) Is Submitted

The dental office prepares and submits the request with supporting documentation (X-rays, diagnostic notes, treatment plan).

3

DHCS Reviews

The Department of Health Care Services reviews the request. Standard turnaround is days to a few weeks depending on complexity.

4

Approval or Modification

Once approved, the dentist can schedule treatment. If modified or denied, the office can submit additional information or pursue an appeal on your behalf.

Eligibility and Enrollment

Denti-Cal benefits are included automatically with Medi-Cal coverage. If you are already enrolled in Medi-Cal, your dental benefits are active with no separate enrollment step.

To check eligibility or apply for Medi-Cal, visit coveredca.com or your county’s social services office. Once you have coverage, our guide to finding a dentist that accepts Medi-Cal in California walks through the provider search step by step.

Children’s Coverage

For children from birth through age 20, Medi-Cal dental benefits are delivered under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) program. Children’s coverage includes everything adult coverage offers, plus:
- Sealants on permanent molars
- Space maintainers
- Medically necessary orthodontics
- More frequent preventive visits as needed
Mountainside Dental’s Insurance and Payment Options

Mountainside Dental is not enrolled in Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal. For patients comparing alternatives, our practice offers three paths, all detailed on our Insurance and Financing page.

1. Private dental insurance: We accept most major carriers, including Delta Dental, Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, MetLife, Guardian, Humana, Ameritas, and United Healthcare.

2. In-house savings plan: For patients without insurance, our in-house savings plan covers preventive care and discounts other procedures. This is a private membership program run directly by our practice, not government insurance. There are no networks, claim forms, deductibles, or annual maximums.
- 2 professional cleanings per year
- Routine exams and X-rays
- 1 emergency exam per year
- 10% off all other procedures
Pricing: $27 to $36 per month depending on location, with periodontal plans available for patients managing gum disease. Same-day enrollment, benefits begin immediately.

3. Self-pay with financing: We accept CareCredit and similar third-party financing for larger treatments. Our guide to dental financing breaks down how it works.

“In 50 years of going to the dentist I had never enjoyed my visit as much as I did today.”

Darrin K., Rancho Santa Margarita

Mountainside Dental Locations

La Quinta

78461 CA-111
760-492-7993

Yucaipa

11834 Bryant St., Ste. #104
909-378-8934

Rancho Mirage

42500 Bob Hope Dr STE 1
760-412-8373

Rancho Santa Margarita

29941 Aventura, Suite B
949-368-0193

Lake Forest

23731 El Toro Rd. Unit D
949-881-4928

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Mountainside Dental accept Medi-Cal?

No. Mountainside Dental does not accept Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal at any of our five Southern California locations. We are a private practice. To use Medi-Cal dental benefits, find a Denti-Cal provider at dental.dhcs.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-322-6384.

When were adult dental benefits restored under Medi-Cal?

January 1, 2022. Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation restoring comprehensive coverage that had been limited since the 2009 recession.

Does Medi-Cal cover dental implants?

Implants are not a routine Denti-Cal benefit. Approval is limited to specific medical situations where dentures cannot be worn for anatomical reasons. Your dentist would need to submit a Treatment Authorization Request for review.

How many cleanings does Medi-Cal cover per year?

Two exams and cleanings per year for adults under most circumstances. Children may be eligible for additional preventive visits under EPSDT.

Are there annual maximum limits on Medi-Cal dental?

No. Unlike most private dental insurance, Denti-Cal has no annual benefit cap for covered services. Frequency limits still apply to certain procedures.

What is the difference between fee-for-service and managed care Medi-Cal?

Fee-for-service is available in most counties and allows visits to any enrolled Denti-Cal provider. Managed care is used in select counties like Sacramento and Los Angeles and requires choosing a dentist within the plan’s network.

If I do not have Medi-Cal, what does Mountainside Dental offer?

We accept most major private dental insurance carriers, offer a private in-house savings plan starting at $27 per month, and accept third-party financing through CareCredit. Full details are on our Insurance and Financing page. The in-house plan is a private membership program, not Medi-Cal or any form of government insurance.

Looking for a Private Dental Practice in Southern California?

If you do not have Medi-Cal coverage and want to compare insurance, in-house savings, or financing options, our Insurance and Financing page lays everything out.

View Insurance & Financing

Mountainside Dental is not a Medi-Cal or Denti-Cal provider.
March 18, 2026
Dental Financing and Insurance: Payment Options at Mountainside Dental

Mountainside Dental accepts most major dental insurance plans and offers flexible financing options at all three of our Southern California locations. This guide explains your insurance benefits, CareCredit financing, and how to get affordable dental care with or without coverage.

Dental Insurance Accepted at Mountainside Dental

Mountainside Dental accepts most major dental insurance plans across all three office locations. We work with PPO plans, HMO plans, and Medi-Cal to help patients access the care they need at a reduced out-of-pocket cost.

Mountainside Dental accepts PPO, HMO, and Medi-Cal dental insurance plans. Our front office team verifies your benefits before your appointment and explains what your plan covers. You will know your estimated costs before treatment begins, so there are no surprises at checkout.

PPO Insurance

We accept most PPO dental plans. PPO plans give you the freedom to visit any dentist, and in-network rates reduce your costs.

HMO Insurance

HMO plans are accepted at our offices. These plans assign you a primary dentist and cover a set list of procedures at fixed copays.

Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal)

We accept Medi-Cal dental coverage for eligible patients, including children and qualifying adults in California.

Benefits Verification

Our team contacts your insurance provider before your visit to confirm coverage, deductibles, and remaining annual benefits.

Locations Accepting Insurance

Lake Forest

23731 El Toro Rd. Unit D
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Est. 2018

Rancho Santa Margarita

29941 Aventura, Suite B
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
Est. 2014

Yucaipa

11834 Bryant St., Ste. #104
Yucaipa, CA 92399
Est. 2015

Understanding Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Most dental insurance plans follow a tiered coverage structure. Preventive care receives the highest coverage percentage, while major procedures receive the lowest. Understanding these tiers helps you plan treatment and manage costs throughout the year.

Preventive Care

80-100%

Exams, cleanings, X-rays, and fluoride treatments. Most plans cover two preventive visits per year at little or no cost.

Basic Procedures

70-80%

Fillings, extractions, and root canals. Your plan covers most of the cost after you meet your annual deductible.

Major Procedures

50%

Crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants. These require a larger patient copay, often 50% of the total fee.

Most dental insurance plans have an annual maximum benefit, typically $1,000 to $2,000 per person. This is the total amount your plan will pay in a calendar year. Once you reach the maximum, you are responsible for 100% of remaining costs until the new benefit year begins.

Annual deductibles range from $25 to $100 per individual. Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance begins covering its share. Preventive visits are often exempt from the deductible, meaning your exam and cleaning are covered from day one of your plan.

Important Reminder

Dental insurance benefits reset on January 1 for most plans. Unused benefits do not roll over to the next year. If you have remaining benefits in November or December, schedule any pending treatment before the year ends so you do not lose coverage you have already paid for.

CareCredit Financing for Dental Treatment

Mountainside Dental offers CareCredit financing at all three locations. CareCredit is a healthcare credit card that lets you pay for dental procedures over time with flexible monthly payments. It covers treatments that insurance does not fully pay for, including cosmetic procedures.

CareCredit offers promotional financing periods with 0% APR for qualified applicants. Promotional periods range from 6 to 24 months depending on the treatment amount and approval. This means you can split the cost of a dental procedure into equal monthly payments with no interest charges if paid in full within the promotional window.

How to Apply for CareCredit

1

Apply Online or In-Office

Submit a quick application on the CareCredit website or ask our front desk to help you apply during your visit. Approval takes minutes.

2

Review Your Credit Limit

Once approved, you receive a credit limit that can be used for dental treatment at Mountainside Dental and other healthcare providers.

3

Choose a Payment Plan

Select a promotional financing option that fits your budget. Options include 6, 12, 18, or 24-month plans depending on the treatment cost.

4

Begin Treatment

Start your dental care right away. Monthly payments begin after your procedure, and you can manage your account online or through the CareCredit app.

“CareCredit made it possible for me to get my crowns done without waiting. The application was quick and the monthly payments fit my budget.”

– Rancho Santa Margarita Patient, Google Review

Dental Care Without Insurance

Patie

nts without dental insurance can still receive affordable care at Mountainside Dental. We offer several options to make treatment accessible, including CareCredit financing and transparent pricing on common procedures.

A standard preventive visit, including an exam, X-rays, and cleaning, typically costs $200 to $350 without insurance at our offices. We provide a full cost breakdown before any treatment begins. You will know the exact amount before you sit in the chair.

CareCredit Financing

Split treatment costs into monthly payments with promotional 0% APR periods. Apply in-office or online in minutes.

Transparent Pricing

We provide detailed cost estimates before treatment. No hidden fees, no surprise bills after your appointment.

Prioritized Treatment Planning

Our dentists help you prioritize procedures based on urgency and budget, so you address the most critical needs first.

Preventive Focus

Regular exams and cleanings prevent costly emergencies. Investing in two preventive visits per year saves money over time.

The American Dental Association reports that preventive dental visits reduce the risk of expensive emergency procedures. Two cleanings and exams per year cost far less than a root canal or extraction. Patients without insurance benefit most from consistent preventive care.

How to Maximize Your Dental Benefits

Many patients leave hundreds of dollars in dental benefits unused each year. A few planning strategies help you get the most value from your insurance coverage and reduce your total out-of-pocket spending.

5 Strategies to Get More from Your Insurance

1

Use Both Preventive Visits

Most plans cover two exams and cleanings per year at 80 to 100%. Skipping a visit wastes a benefit you have already paid for through your premiums.

2

Plan Major Work Across Benefit Years

If you need multiple crowns or other major work, schedule some in December and the rest in January. This spreads the cost across two annual maximums.

3

Request Pre-Authorization

For procedures over $300, our team submits a pre-authorization to your insurer. This confirms coverage and your expected copay before treatment starts.

4

Do Not Delay Recommended Treatment

A small cavity treated now costs less than a crown later. Early treatment stays in the “basic” coverage tier, saving you money and preserving your annual maximum.

5

Check Remaining Benefits in Q4

Call our office in October or November. We check your remaining balance and help you schedule any pending treatment before your benefits reset on January 1.

Our front office staff at every Mountainside Dental location assists with insurance questions and benefit planning. We handle the paperwork, file claims on your behalf, and follow up on any outstanding items. You can focus on your dental health while we manage the administrative details. Visit our insurance page for more information or call any of our three offices.

For patients considering major cosmetic or restorative work, combining insurance benefits with CareCredit financing often provides the most affordable path. Your insurance covers the portion it allows, and CareCredit covers the remaining balance with monthly payments. Our team at Yucaipa, Rancho Santa Margarita, or Lake Forest can outline this combined approach during your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Financing and Insurance

What dental insurance plans does Mountainside Dental accept?

Mountainside Dental accepts most major dental insurance plans, including PPO, HMO, and Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal). We verify your benefits before your appointment and explain your coverage, deductible, and estimated copay so you know your costs in advance.

Does Mountainside Dental offer payment plans?

Yes. Mountainside Dental offers CareCredit financing at all three locations. CareCredit provides flexible monthly payment plans with promotional 0% APR periods for qualified applicants. You can apply online or at our office, and approval takes only a few minutes.

How does CareCredit work for dental procedures?

CareCredit is a healthcare credit card. Once approved, you use it to pay for dental treatment and then repay the balance in monthly installments. Promotional plans offer 0% interest for 6 to 24 months if the balance is paid in full within the promotional period. Standard interest rates apply after the promotional period ends.

Can I get dental care without insurance?

Yes. Mountainside Dental welcomes patients without insurance. We provide transparent pricing before treatment and offer CareCredit financing to spread costs over time. A preventive visit with exam, X-rays, and cleaning typically costs $200 to $350 without insurance at our offices.

Does Medi-Cal cover dental work at Mountainside Dental?

Yes. We accept Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal) at our locations. Medi-Cal covers preventive care, basic restorative procedures, and some major treatments for eligible adults and children. Coverage details vary, so our team verifies your specific Medi-Cal benefits before scheduling treatment.

How much does a dental visit cost without insurance?

A standard preventive dental visit, including a comprehensive exam, digital X-rays, and professional cleaning, typically costs $200 to $350 at Mountainside Dental without insurance. Costs for additional procedures like fillings, crowns, or cosmetic treatments vary. We provide a complete cost estimate before beginning any work.

Should I use my dental insurance before the end of the year?

Yes. Most dental insurance benefits reset on January 1, and unused benefits do not carry over. If you have remaining annual benefits or pending treatment recommendations, schedule your appointment before December 31. Our office can check your remaining balance and help you plan year-end visits to maximize your coverage.

Schedule Your Visit and Ask About Payment Options

Our team is ready to verify your insurance, explain your benefits, and discuss financing options. Book your appointment today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Mountainside Dental | Lake Forest, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Yucaipa locations

Mountainside Dental accepts most major insurance plans at all three Southern California locations. CareCredit financing available. Serving Lake Forest, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Yucaipa since 2014.

February 25, 2026