Children’s dental is built into every Covered California health plan. Adults can add a family dental plan, or buy one directly.
Quick answer: In California, children’s dental care is included in every Covered California health plan for members under 19. Adults can add an optional family dental plan through Covered California, which is guaranteed issue, or buy a standalone plan directly. Plans come in two main types, dental HMO and dental PPO, with different networks and costs.
Every Covered California health plan includes core pediatric dental services for members under 19, so families don’t need a separate plan for children’s basic care.
Covered California offers optional family dental plans as an add-on to health coverage. They’re guaranteed issue, so oral health history doesn’t affect eligibility.
Covered California reported a 6.2% average increase for 2027 dental plans, offered by five insurers: Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, DentaQuest, Delta Dental, and Humana.
| Item | 2027 | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Open enrollment | Nov 1, 2026 to Jan 31, 2027 | Enroll by Dec 31 for coverage starting Jan 1 |
| Dental insurers | 5 insurers, 8 plans | Dental HMO and dental PPO options |
| Average rate change | 6.2% | Statewide weighted average for 2027 |
| Enrollment | 370,500 as of March 2026 | An average of $27 per month |
Dental networks vary by area. Pick your city for local details.
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Not for adults. For children, pediatric dental is an essential health benefit, and every Covered California health plan includes core dental services for members under 19. Adults choose whether to add dental coverage, through Covered California or on their own.
Yes. After enrolling in a Covered California health plan, adults can add optional family dental coverage. It’s guaranteed issue, so it’s available regardless of pre-existing oral health conditions. You can choose a dental HMO or a dental PPO, depending on your budget and preferred dentists.
Open enrollment for 2027 runs November 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027. To have coverage for all of 2027, enrollment must be completed by December 31, 2026. Standalone dental plans bought outside Covered California may follow different enrollment rules, so check before you apply.
Enrollees paid an average of $27 per month as of March 2026, and Covered California reported a 6.2% average rate increase for 2027 dental plans. Your price depends on the plan you pick, your rating region, and who’s covered under it, such as a spouse or dependents.
A dental HMO usually has lower premiums and set copays, but you use a network dentist and need referrals for specialists. A dental PPO lets you see any dentist and pays more in network. Both types are available through Covered California’s family dental plans.
One of our licensed agents can compare Covered California and standalone dental options for your family and your dentist.
