Does Medicare Provide Dental Coverage?

Dental health is an essential aspect of one’s overall health. Poor dental health can become very costly without proper insurance coverage, making it hard for many to get the care they need. Uncared for dental issues can even create new health problems in other parts of the body.

If you’re new to Medicare, you may have some questions when it comes to Medicare and dental coverage. This is important to consider when you are evaluating your Medicare options as well. In short, Original Medicare does not provide dental coverage, but that does not mean you do not have options.

Does Original Medicare Provide Dental Coverage?

Original Medicare Part A and Part B do not cover dental care. The only exception in which Original Medicare will cover dental care is if you have a traumatic injury affecting your jaw, mouth, or teeth and are hospitalized. Only then might Original Medicare cover some dental care.

Will Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans Cover Dental Care?

There are some Medicare Advantage plans that include dental coverage. Each plan can be different in the services and care they provide; however, this dental coverage typically includes extractions, fillings, teeth cleaning, and routine X-rays. Medicare Advantage plans are also similar to traditional health plans regarding cost and coverage. This means they can include coinsurance, copays, and deductibles for dental just as it does medical, prescription, etc.

Are there any Medicare Supplement plans that cover Dental Care?

Medicare Supplements (Medigap) do not cover dental care; however, they can offer help with out-of-pocket costs, which can be used to help lessen the cost of an out-of-pocket dentist bill.

How Can I Get Dental Coverage Without Changing my Medicare Coverage?

Even if you are enrolled in Medicare coverage that meets all your needs except dental – don’t worry. You have options!

In this case, you can purchase a separate dental insurance plan from a private insurance company. These plans can offer basic preventive care or a more premium plan for more coverage, with a higher premium. These options will be similar to those you may have seen if you ever chose dental coverage through an employer-sponsored plan.

If you are not interested in enrolling in another line of coverage, walk-in dental clinics or local dental schools may provide free or low-cost care. These are good for beneficiaries paying out-of-pocket for care because the prices are more affordable. Your local Health Department can help lead you to walk-in clinics near you or other resources offering affordable dental care.