Are Dental Services Covered by Medicare?
Thursday, April 21st, 2022
Estimates show there are over 63 million people enrolled in Medicare. If you are one of that number, you may have questions about your Medicare coverage. There are a lot of unknowns, especially when it comes to additional benefits such as dental services.
What dental services are covered by Medicare? This question is a common one. The benefit of dental insurance is essential, and seeking answers is vital to meeting your dental needs.
If you’re committed to oral health, you will want to know what dental services Medicare covers and what it does not. Read to find out about Medicare dental coverage and your options.
What Dental Services Are Covered by Medicare?
If you have Original Medicare, you do not have coverage for routine dental care. Medicare Part A and B, the components of Original Medicare, only cover inpatient hospital care and outpatient medical services.
The following dental services or procedures are not covered if you have Original Medicare:
- Oral exams
- Teeth cleaning
- Dentures
- Root canal treatment
- Tooth extraction
- Fillings
- X-rays
- Other dental appliances or devices
You will be responsible for paying 100% out-of-pocket for these services if Original Medicare is your only insurance coverage.
With Original Medicare, the only dental procedures covered are those deemed medically necessary by a physician. If a dental procedure is needed to carry out another related medical procedure, a doctor can require it.
Additionally, Medicare may pay for a dental procedure in the case of an emergency or a life-threatening situation. For example, if you suffer an injury that causes trauma to your teeth or jaw and treatment is needed. In this situation, Medicare may cover your expenses.
If you expect coverage for basic dental services, Original Medicare does not provide it. It will be necessary for you to seek additional coverage.
What Are My Options for Getting Covered?
If you have Original Medicare, it is still possible to get dental coverage that will meet your needs and give you peace of mind. Through Medicare Advantage or Part C, you may be able to add dental coverage to your existing Medicare Part A and Part B benefits.
Private insurance companies approved by the government Medicare program offer Medicare Advantage plans. The federal government regulates these authorized plans to ensure adequate and affordable coverage.
Not all Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits, so it is essential to carefully read the plan’s details. It’s a good idea to allow a Medicare Insurance Advisor to view your plan options. An advisor can explain the details and answer any questions you have.
Don’t Neglect Your Dental Plan
A good dental plan is sensible and attainable even when enrolled in Medicare. Avoid paying out of pocket for routine dental care and improve your overall health outlook. Consider enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan to meet your dental healthcare needs.
If you’re wondering what dental services are covered by Medicare, allow us to show you the options available for adding dental to your current Medicare coverage. Contact us today to discuss your Medicare plan options and let us help you choose one that is right for you.