Medicare’s Dental Coverage is Limited – Know Your Options

For many Americans becoming eligible for Medicare is a milestone, but did you know that Medicare’s dental coverage is limited?

If you have Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), you will not be covered for most dental services and supplies, including but not limited to:

• Dental exams
• Routine cleanings
• Fillings
• Tooth extractions
• Dentures and dental implants

Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) does cover limited dental services if you receive them in a hospital, and if they are necessary to perform a covered, non-dental procedure or service. For example, Part A might pay for a tooth extraction in preparation of radiation treatment on a patient’s jaw. However, Medicare will not cover follow-up dental treatment after the primary condition has been treated.

Fortunately, there are options available to help protect against what could be catastrophic financial obstacles.

• Dental discount cards provide a discount or reduced price off various services offered by dentists who accept the discount card. Many discount plans have varying rates depending on where you live.
• Dental insurance provides more comprehensive coverage and is an affordable way to protect yourself from the high cost of dental services. Searching for the right plan can seem overwhelming due to all the choices, so it is important to know what your best options are.
• Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may offer additional benefits for routine dental services. Some advantage plans offer the coverage at no additional cost, or they may offer it as an optional supplemental benefit that you can add on for an additional fee.

AMAC can help you understand your available dental options.  Our knowledgeable Dental insurance agents will take the time to answer all your questions and help you choose a plan that fits your unique situation.

Call 1-800-334-9330 and one of AMAC’s trusted, licensed Advisors will be happy to assist you with your needs