The Maryland Healthy Smiles Dental Program (MHSDP) provides dental care to eligible Medicaid members. Medicaid covers a wide range of dental services. There are no premiums, deductibles, or copays for covered services. There is no maximum benefit amount each year. MHSDP members should never pay for covered services out of pocket.

Benefits:

• Regular checkups

• Teeth cleaning

• Fluoride treatments

• X-rays

• Fillings

• Root canals

• Pulling teeth - extractions

Non-Covered Services:

• Dentures (full or partial)

• Implants

• Braces (for adults 21+)

• Teeth Whitening

• Dental Veneers

• Dental Bonding

Limitations: Medicaid dental coverage is a reduced-cost program, which often limits access to specialized care due to lower reimbursement rates. Many specialists, including those performing root canals or extractions, do not accept Medicaid. As a result, patients in areas like Frederick County may face long wait times or need to travel 20-50 miles to find care, as local providers often have limited participation or full schedules. To ensure timely access to treatment, it’s important to keep appointments and maintain a positive patient-provider relationship. We are proud providers of the plan, because we believe in expanded access to care and have helped 1,000s of patients in their time of need.

What to Expect: The initial visit is focused on understanding your dental concerns. After checking in at the front desk (please bring ID), you'll typically wait 15 minutes or less before your appointment begins. We will start with x-rays, including a panoramic radiograph and bitewings to assess your mouth, cavities, and periodontal health. The dentist will review your medical and dental history, including medications, and document any pre-existing conditions like missing teeth, fillings, or crowns. A treatment plan will be discussed, and if additional procedures are needed, we will schedule them at that time. Please keep in mind that flexible availability is recommended, as most offices cannot accommodate only weekends, holidays, or evenings.

Same-day care is usually not possible under this plan due to time constraints, required benefit checks, signed consent forms, and, in some cases, prior approval for procedures. If a complex extraction (e.g., wisdom teeth) or root canal is needed, you will receive a referral. Because this is a government plan, we must follow strict guidelines to remain in compliance.