Frequently Asked Questions

1. What documents should I bring to my appointment?
   • A photo identification card
   • Proof of Montgomery County residency
   • Proof of income, for those requesting financial assistance
2. Where can I get free dental care?
   • No clinics advertise free dental care.  However, there may be payment options to help pay for services.
3.  Do you provide braces?
   • No. We do not provide braces (orthodontic treatment) in our clinics. Braces are considered a practice specialty of dentistry. We are a referral source for where you can access this type of specialty service.
4. Do you pull teeth?
   • Yes, we provide non-surgical extractions, and limited oral surgery. For more complex needs beyond the normal practice or capabilities of the general dentists practicing in a public health clinic, you will be referred to an oral surgeon for specialty care. The resources for the specialist, oral surgeon, will vary based upon need.  
5. Do you accept Medicaid patients?
   • Yes, we are a dental provider for eligible Medicaid members who are enrolled in the Maryland Healthy Smiles Dental Program and are residents of Montgomery County.
6. How do I know if I am eligible for the Maryland Healthy Smiles Dental Program?
   • Everyone with full Medicaid coverage is eligible for the Maryland Healthy Smiles Dental Program.
7. How much will I pay for dental services if I have Medicaid?
   • Eligible Medicaid members who are enrolled in Maryland Healthy Smiles will pay $0 for dental services covered by the plan.  There are no premiums, deductibles, or copays for covered services. There is no maximum benefit amount each year. For services not covered by Maryland Healthy Smiles, fees will be determined by the Maryland Department of Health’s sliding fee scale.
8. What dental services are covered by the Maryland Healthy Smiles Dental Program?
   • Regular checkups 
   • Teeth cleaning
   • Fluoride treatments 
   • X-rays 
   • Fillings 
   • Root canals 
   • Crowns 
   • Pulling teeth - extractions
   • Anesthesia
   • Please visit our website for more information about Maryland Healthy Smiles member benefits.
9. Do you take Medicare?
   • No. However, if you do not have dental coverage under your Medicare insurance, you may be eligible for dental care in our clinic, provided you also meet the income eligibility criteria.
10. Do you provide dentures
    • Yes. Dentures are generally provided through our community partnering dentists. Services are limited for seniors, at this point in time.