The state of Washington calls their Medicaid services program “Washington Apple Health.” For people who meet eligibility requirements, Washington Apple Health provides coverage for services such as preventive care, cancer screening tests, care and treatment for diabetes and hypertension, as well as other conditions.

Washington Apple Health Medicaid services also include coverage for the costs of dental care for people who are eligible. In Washington, close to one million people receive dental care through Washington Apple Health.

Having proper dental care is important for people at any age, but it is imperative that seniors, children, and individuals with lowered immune systems have access to a dentist for regular visits or dental treatments and services whenever they need them.

If you are looking for more information about Washington’s Medicaid dental care program for yourself or a family member, you can call your local Medicaid services office and get the details from an agent.

Who is eligible for Washington Apple Health (Medicaid)?

Washington Apple Health provides medical insurance coverage to low income individuals, families, children, foster parents, people who are aged, blind, or disabled, and to people who are over 65 years old and on Medicare, but can’t afford supplemental dental insurance.

Additional requirements may include:
• They must have an annual income that is equal to or less than the Medicaid
standard. For single people that amount is $1,436.00 gross monthly income. For
a family of four, the allowance is $2,961.00 gross monthly income.
• They must be U.S. citizens and meet Medicaid’s other resident requirements.

Additional requirements for parents or caretakers include:
• They must meet the low-income standards for Medicaid. For a family of four, the
maximum gross monthly income is $972.00.
• There must be a dependent child under 18 living in the home.

Through Washington Medicaid’s Apple Health for Kids program, children can get free coverage, or coverage with a low premium, if the family’s income is equal to or below the guidelines. For a family of four, the maximum gross monthly income allowed is $4,614.00. For families with a gross monthly income of $5,686.00, they can get dental care coverage for $20.00 a month per child. People who qualify for Medicare and Medicaid are considered dual-eligibles. They are eligible for Washington Apple Health’s dental care plan if they meet low income standards.

What does Washington Medicaid include in its dental care coverage?

Dental services that Washington Apple Health Medicaid covers for children who are 20 years or younger, include the following:

• Routine check-ups and cleaning
• X-rays
• Sealants and fillings
• Stainless steel crowns
• Fluoride applications
• Tooth extraction
• Orthodontic services that are deemed medically necessary

The dental services that Medicaid covers for adults include the following:

• Routine check-ups and cleaning
• X-rays
• Fillings
• Fluoride treatment
• Tooth extraction
• Nitrous Oxide
• Treatment for gum disease
• Root canal on front teeth
• Dentures or partials
• Oral surgery

Practicing good dental health begins with the first tooth and continues throughout life. Having access to affordable dental care means getting the help to maintain a healthy mouth, teeth, and gums for a healthier life overall.

Related articles:

Does Medicare Cover Root Canals?

Does Medicare Advantage Cover Dental Care?