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Texas Foster Youth Justice Project
  • Aging Out of Foster Care
    • Aging Out Guide
    • Benefits and Eligibility
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    • Living Without Family Support
    • Resources for Youth
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Free Legal Help for Current & Former Foster Youth call toll free 877-313-3688

  • Aging Out of Foster Care
    • Aging Out Guide
    • Benefits and Eligibility
  • Resources
    • Living without Family Support
    • Resources for Youth
    • Resources for Advocates
  • About
  • Get Help
  • Donate

Aging Out Guide

Medicaid and Other Public Benefits

After leaving foster care, you will be responsible for the costs of your health care. There are a number of benefits available to young adults who aged out of foster care that can help you manage your health care.

home / Aging Out Guide / Medicaid and Other Public Benefits / Dental Coverage

Dental Coverage

Medicaid only provides dental services to those 20 years old and younger. If you have dental issues, it is very important to get them taken care of before your 21st birthday. Some dental issues may take several months to fix, so get started early! Dental insurance through Medicaid covers check-ups, fillings, crowns, and emergency dental services. Dental insurance can even cover braces and other orthodontic treatments that are “medically necessary.” You should talk to your dentist about the services you think you need and ask to be referred to a specialist, if necessary.

After you turn 21: you will only get dental coverage if you choose a STAR plan with a value-added service covering dental work. Keep in mind that the dental work it covers is very limited.

In This Section

  • Health Care
  • Health Care Plans Available to Aged Out Foster Youth
  • Applying for Medicaid
  • Medical Records
  • Renewing Your Health Insurance
  • Medicaid Eligibility When You Move to Another State
  • Finding a Doctor
  • Dental Coverage
  • Mental Health Services and Resources
  • Other Health Insurance Options
  • Health Insurance for Your Children
  • Food Stamps (SNAP Food Benefits)
  • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
  • RSDI and SSI Benefits
  • Other Social Services Resources

Related Information

  • Aged Out Foster Youth Documentation of Texas Residency for Medicaid

  • Making Healthy Choices

  • DFPS Well-Being Specialists

  • Your Texas Benefits (HHSC portal)

  • STAR Health – Transitioning Youth

  • Health Insurance Marketplace

  • Health Advocacy Guide

  • Aging Out Guide
  • Benefits and Eligibility
  • Living Without Family Support
  • Resources for Youth
  • Resources for Advocates
  • About
  • Get Help
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