How much does medicare dental insurance cost

The world of Medicare can be confusing in general. When it comes to Medicare dental coverage, it can be difficult to know what options are available to you.

If you’re focused on oral care, then it’s important to know if Medicare covers dental. Take a look at the types of Medicare and how they may or may cover dental costs.

Does Medicare cover dental care services?

Yes and no. Original Medicare doesn’t cover most dental care, and there are not Medicare dental plans to purchase. If you’re shopping for coverage for routine dental services, such as teeth cleaning and X-rays, and more specialized treatments for fillings, extractions, dentures, and more, then Original Medicare doesn’t cover those dental services. However, there are ways to obtain dental coverage under some types of Medicare plans.

What are some types of Medicare dental coverage?

There are many types of Medicare and they differ in what kind (if any) dental coverage they offer.

Dental coverage with Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans, sometimes called Part C, combine Original Medicare Part A and Part B into one complete plan. These plans are offered through private insurance companies approved by the government Medicare program. These plans may also offer extra programs and services not covered by Original Medicare, such as dental coverage. Some plans may also include Part D prescription drug coverageand vision.

Medicare Advantage Plans work similarly to traditional health plans in cost and coverage. For example, there are HMOs, PPOs, POS plans, and more. They can include deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

But not all Medicare Advantage Plans cover dental care. So before you sign up, make sure to read the details of what the plan covers. If you want Medicare dental coverage, then make sure the Medicare Advantage Plan you choose covers the dental care services that you need.

Dental coverage with original Medicare, Part A and Part B

Original Medicare is composed of Part A, which is hospital insurance, and Part B, medical insurance. The only instance in which Original Medicare might cover any dental services is if you suffered a traumatic injury that also affected your jaw, teeth, or mouth and had to be hospitalized. Then, Original Medicare may cover some of that dental care.

Understanding exactly what your Medicare plan would cover is important to know before accidents occur.

Dental coverage with Medicare Supplement Insurance Policies

Medicare Supplement Insurance policies do not offer dental coverage. These plans do, however, help with out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare.

What you need to know about dental insurance for seniors and those who are Medicare eligible

Choosing the Medicare health plan that's right for you can be a chore, and you may be tempted to quit after selecting your medical plan. But don't forget your dental health!

Maintaining oral health may be more challenging for seniors and people with certain disabilities. This may be due to an inability to brush their teeth properly, as well as an increased use of medications.

Does Medicare cover dental services for seniors?

Unfortunately, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not include coverage for dental services like dental exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, plates or dentures. There are some exceptions, such as when a hospital stay is involved, but otherwise you would have to pay out of pocket for any routine dental services. For some of us, those expenses could add up quickly.

Thankfully, there are several options for dental insurance for seniors and those who are Medicare eligible.

Choose a Medicare Advantage plan

Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) include benefits like routine dental, vision, hearing and prescription drug coverage. There are quite a few plans to choose from with a wide range of premiums and coverage options.

Be sure to consider your current and future needs. For example, if you have dentures or think you may need them in the future, look for a Medicare Advantage plan that covers dentures.

Get extra dental coverage with a dental plan

If you are eligible, some Medicare Advantage plans can be paired with a dental insurance plan. You'll have to pay a monthly premium, but the cost may be offset by lower out-of-pocket fees.

Some services that may be fully or partially covered by a dental plan include:

• Exams
• Cleanings
• Fillings
• Extractions
• X-rays
• Root canals

Most of these dental plans require you see an in-network dentist who may offer lower rates than out-of-network providers. Some plans let you go to any dentist (in or out of network), but you may have to pay more for their services.

Whether you choose a Medicare Advantage plan or pair a dental plan with your Medicare Advantage plan, take the time to find a plan that fits your needs and helps protect your dental health.

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