Does Medicare Cover Dental?
Key Points
- Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover routine dental care.
- Some Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits.
- Standalone dental insurance is available and may be worth considering.
Dental costs are one of the biggest surprises for new Medicare enrollees. Here's the truth about what's covered — and what's not.
What Original Medicare Does NOT Cover
One of the most common disappointments new Medicare beneficiaries face is discovering that Original Medicare — Parts A and B — does not cover routine dental care. This includes cleanings, X-rays, fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, and tooth extractions when performed for dental health purposes.
This has been a gap in Medicare coverage since the program's inception, and it catches many people off guard — especially those coming off employer health insurance that included dental benefits.
When Does Medicare Cover Dental Services?
There is a narrow exception: Medicare Part A will cover dental services that are incidental to a covered medical procedure. For example, if you need a dental exam and clearance before a heart valve surgery or an organ transplant, those specific dental costs may be covered as part of the hospital stay.
Similarly, if you require emergency care in a hospital setting due to a dental injury or infection, the hospital costs may be covered by Part A — but the dental procedure itself typically would not be.
Do Medicare Advantage Plans Cover Dental?
Many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans include dental benefits as an added perk — often covering preventive services like cleanings and X-rays at little to no cost, with some coverage for more comprehensive services like fillings or extractions. However, the level of dental coverage varies widely from plan to plan and is not standardized the way Medigap benefits are.
If dental coverage is important to you, it's worth comparing Medicare Advantage plans in your area to see what dental benefits are offered. Just be aware that accepting those benefits means switching from Original Medicare to a managed care network.
What Are Your Other Options?
If you prefer to stay on Original Medicare with a Medigap plan, standalone dental insurance is available from many private carriers. These plans typically cover preventive care at 100% and offer partial coverage for basic and major services after a waiting period.
Dental discount programs are another option — these are not insurance plans, but membership programs that give you reduced rates at participating dentists. We're happy to walk you through your options and help you find the best fit for your situation.
Still Have Questions?
Our licensed Medicare brokers are here to help — at no cost to you.