The short version
- Virginia's Medicaid and FAMIS dental program is Cardinal Care Smiles
- Children under 21: checkups, cleanings, fluoride, sealants, fillings and more, at no cost
- Braces can be covered for children when medically necessary, with approval
Insurance should never be the reason a child misses the dentist. Here is a plain-language guide to how coverage works for families we see.
Virginia Medicaid and FAMIS
Virginia’s dental program for Medicaid, FAMIS and FAMIS Plus is called Cardinal Care Smiles (formerly Smiles For Children), and it is administered by DentaQuest. According to the state’s member guide, children under 21 are covered for all medically necessary dental services from a participating dentist, with no cost for covered services. There is no separate dental card; you use your child’s Medicaid card.
- Exams and cleanings every six months
- X-rays when needed, fluoride and sealants
- Fillings, crowns, root canals and extractions
- Anesthesia when medically necessary
- Braces when medically necessary, with prior approval
Medicaid can also help with rides to dental appointments through the state’s non-emergency transportation program.
Commercial insurance
Most commercial dental plans cover preventive care at or near 100%, with fillings and other treatment covered at a percentage after a deductible. Orthodontic coverage varies widely: some plans include a lifetime orthodontic maximum, others none. We verify benefits before treatment and explain your expected costs in writing.
Questions to ask before treatment
- Is this office in network for my plan?
- Has my child used any of this year’s benefits elsewhere?
- Is there a waiting period or an age limit for orthodontics?
- What will I owe, and are payment plans available?
Bring your insurance or Medicaid card to every visit, and let us know right away if your coverage changes.
Sources
General information, not a diagnosis. Talk with your child's dentist about their specific needs.