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Dental Insurance Coverage
Does Medicare Cover Dental?
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) does not cover routine dental care such as cleanings, fillings, dentures, or extractions. However, there are ways to get the coverage you need.
Medicare is made up of different parts, each offering distinct benefits:
Part A : Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care.
Part B : Medical Insurance
Helps pay for doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and some home health care.
Part C : Medicare Advantage
All-in-one private health insurance plan alternative to original Medicare
Part D : Drug Coverage
Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs, including many recommended vaccines.
Your Options for Dental Coverage Through Medicare
Many people add dental coverage in one of the following ways:
– Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans: Many Advantage plans include dental benefits as part of their coverage. These benefits can range from basic cleanings to comprehensive dental care depending on the plan.
– Standalone Dental Plans: You can purchase a separate dental insurance policy through a private carrier if your Medicare plan does not include dental.
What Can Be Covered with a Medicare Dental Benefit?
While coverage varies by plan, here’s what many plans may include:
- Preventive care (cleanings, exams, x-rays)
- Basic services (fillings, simple extractions)
- Major services (crowns, root canals, dentures)
- Annual maximum benefit allowance
- Access to nationwide dental networks
Tip: Always review your plan’s dental provider network and yearly coverage limits before enrolling.
How Much Does Dental Coverage Cost?
Costs depend on the type of plan you choose. If dental is included in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may pay a small additional premium—or it may be included at no extra cost. Standalone plans typically range from $40–$70/month, depending on the coverage level.
Why Dental Health Matters in Retirement
Maintaining oral health is vital to your overall well-being. Untreated dental issues can contribute to other health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and poor nutrition.
What Medicare Does NOT Cover
Original Medicare does not typically cover
- Routine dental, vision, or hearing services
- Long-term care (nursing home stays)
- Prescription drugs (Part D or Medicare Advantage)
- Overseas medical expenses
To bridge these gaps, many beneficiaries choose to add
- A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy
- A Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C)
- A Part D Prescription Drug Plan
Need Help Choosing a Dental Plan That Fits Your Medicare Coverage?
Whether you’re newly eligible for Medicare or exploring ways to improve your coverage, we can help you find a dental plan that fits your needs and your budget.