Dental Coverage Options for Medicare Beneficiaries

Original Medicare covers many important healthcare services, but unfortunately, routine dental care isn’t one of them. Since good oral health is essential to overall health, it’s important for Medicare beneficiaries to understand their options for getting dental coverage. Here’s what you need to know.

What Dental Services Does Original Medicare Cover?

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally does not cover:

• Routine dental exams

• Cleanings, fillings, and tooth extractions

• Dentures, bridges, and dental implants

Medicare Part A may cover dental services only if they are necessary during a covered inpatient hospital stay, such as:

• Emergency jaw surgery after an accident

• Tooth extractions necessary for radiation treatment

  
  

Dental Coverage Options for Medicare Beneficiaries

1. Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans with Dental Benefits

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer dental benefits that can include:

✅ Routine cleanings and exams

✅ X-rays

✅ Fillings and extractions

✅ Dentures and implants (coverage varies by plan)

Each plan’s dental benefits are different, so it’s important to compare options.

2. Standalone Dental Insurance Plans

If you have Original Medicare, you can buy a private standalone dental plan that covers preventive and comprehensive services.

• Monthly premiums typically range from $20 to $50.

• Plans may cover basic services immediately, with waiting periods for major procedures.

  
  

3. Dental Discount Programs

Dental discount plans aren’t insurance, but they provide:

• Reduced fees for dental services

• Discounts at participating providers

• Affordable monthly or annual membership fees

  
  

4. Medicaid and Community Dental Programs

If you qualify for Medicaid, you may receive some dental benefits, depending on your state. Additionally, local dental schools and nonprofit clinics often offer low-cost or sliding scale dental care.

Tips for Choosing the Right Dental Coverage

💡 Consider how often you visit the dentist and what procedures you might need.💡 Compare premiums, copays, and annual maximums.💡 Verify if your preferred dentists are in the plan’s network.

Final Thoughts

Although Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental care, there are several affordable ways to protect your smile and your health. Whether through a Medicare Advantage plan, standalone dental insurance, or discount programs, there’s an option that can work for you.

Need help choosing a Medicare plan with dental coverage? Lindbergh and Associates can guide you!

📞 Call us today or schedule a free consultation to explore your options for dental coverage with Medicare.

dicare benefits!