Visit us at cchealth.org 3 member news Dental care for you Dental health is an important part of your overall health and at every stage in life. If you have Medi-Cal, dental services are available to you. This is through a Medi-Cal Dental program offered by Smile, California. We want to make sure you know how to access your covered dental services. All you have to do is: 1. Find a Medi-Cal dentist near you at smilecalifornia.org. Use the “Find a Dentist” tool. You may also call the Telephone Service Center at 800322‑6384 for assistance. 2. Make an appointment. If you cannot make it to your appointment, please call your dentist as soon as possible to cancel or reschedule. 3. Bring your Medi-Cal Benefits Identification Card (BIC). If you are under the age of 21, you are covered for a checkup and cleaning every 6 months. This includes fluoride varnish treatments. Children should get fluoride varnish twice a year. It helps keep their teeth strong and prevent cavities. Ask your child’s doctor or dentist about it at their next check-up. If you are 21 or over, you are covered for a checkup and cleaning once a year. You are also covered for other dental benefits, such as: ● X-rays. ● Fillings. ● Emergency dental services. ● And more. If you want more information about your benefits or help with covered dental services, visit smilecalifornia.org or call 800-322-6384. Habits to keep teeth healthy for life Brush t wice daily. Use fluoride toothpaste starting when baby’s first tooth appears. Teach older kids to brush all teeth surfaces for 2 minutes (use a fun song or timer to keep track!). By age 10, kids can brush on their own. Floss daily. Start when 2 teeth are touching. Floss sticks may be easier than string. Factor in fluoride. Fluoride in toothpaste or tap water helps prevent cavities. No fluoride in your water? Ask the dentist about fluoride supplements. Offer nutritious drinks and snacks. This includes dairy products— they’re high in calcium, which keeps teeth strong. Limit sweet drinks, especially between meals. Visit the dentist by age 1. Tooth decay is common among kids. Regular checkups and cleanings help keep your child’s mouth healthy right from the start. Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; National Library of Medicine; Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTI0MzU=