Does original Medicare cover routine dental care?

Asked by: Mr. Cleo Heaney  |  Last update: February 15, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (50 votes)

Most dental care: In most cases, Original Medicare doesn't cover dental services like routine cleanings, filings, tooth extractions, or items like dentures.

Is routine dental care covered by Medicare?

In most cases, Medicare doesn't cover dental services like routine cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions, or items like dentures.

Does Medicare cover routine services?

Medicare pays for many preventive services to keep you healthy. For example, if you have Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance), you can get a yearly “Wellness” visit and many other covered preventive services, like colorectal cancer screenings and mammograms.

Does traditional Medicare include dental?

Dental care is not seen as medically necessary by Medicare. Original Medicare generally doesn't cover dental exams, procedures or supplies. Part A, however, may help with certain dental services while you're in the hospital.

What is the best dental plan for seniors on Medicare?

“My top picks for Medicare Advantage dental insurance include UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Aetna, Humana and Devoted Health. These companies provide notable dental coverage, and there are different advantages for each. It's important to consider the insurance that the dentists in your area accept and the coverage provided.

Does Medicare Cover Dental?

30 related questions found

Do most dentists accept Medicare?

Medicare coverage of dental services is generally very limited. Since its establishment in 1965, Medicare has explicitly excluded coverage for dental services, except under limited circumstances. Limited or no dental coverage contributes to Medicare beneficiaries foregoing routine and other dental procedures.

What insurance company has the best dental coverage?

MetLife takes the title of best dental insurance with no annual maximum, thanks to its two HMO plans with no coverage caps, low premiums, and no waiting periods.

What are the 6 things Medicare doesn't cover?

Some of the items and services Medicare doesn't cover include:
  • Eye exams (for prescription eyeglasses)
  • Long-term care.
  • Cosmetic surgery.
  • Massage therapy.
  • Routine physical exams.
  • Hearing aids and exams for fitting them.

How often does Medicare pay for eye exams?

Medicare only covers routine eye care in the following circumstances: If you have diabetes, Medicare covers an annual eye exam by a state-authorized eye doctor to check for diabetes-related vision problems. If you are at high risk for glaucoma, Medicare covers an annual eye exam by a state-authorized eye doctor.

How can I fix my teeth if I don't have money?

Free Dental Clinics
  1. Nonprofit clinics. Some cities have dental clinics that specifically serve people with low incomes, no insurance, or who otherwise can't afford care.
  2. Donated services. Some state or national charities use donated labor and materials to give free care. ...
  3. Private dentists.

What are 3 services not covered by Medicare?

We don't cover these routine items and services: Routine or annual physical checkups (visit Medicare Wellness Visits to learn about exceptions). exams required by third parties, like insurance companies, businesses, or government agencies. Eye exams for prescribing, fitting, or changing eyeglasses.

At what age does Medicare stop paying for mammograms?

At what age does Medicare stop paying for mammograms? There's no cut-off age for Medicare coverage and mammograms. If you're enrolled in Original Medicare, Part B will pay for an annual screening mammogram and diagnostic mammograms if medically necessary.

Does Medicare pay for routine visits?

Medicare Part B covers an annual wellness exam and many preventive screenings with no copay or deductible. However, you may have to pay a share of the cost for certain recommended tests or services. And while it's not mandatory, there are very good reasons to have a wellness exam every year.

Is it true that Medicare now pays for dental implants?

Key Takeaways. Original Medicare excludes dental implants, covering them only in rare cases tied to medical treatment, like cancer care or accident recovery. Medicare Advantage plans can include implant coverage, but availability and benefits differ, making it essential to compare plans carefully.

Does Medicare Part G cover dental?

Plan G doesn't cover routine dental care. This means you'll either have to enroll in a stand-alone dental plan, pay for your dental visits out of pocket, or choose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that may include your Part A, Part B, and additional benefits, such as dental care.

Does Medicare Part B cover dental?

Does Medicare Part B cover any dental expenses? Yes, but Medicare Part B only covers dental expenses that are a medically necessary part of another covered service. It does not cover routine dental services, such as cleanings, or other standard procedures like dentures, crowns, or fillings.

What part of eye exam is not covered by Medicare?

Eye exams (routine)

Medicare doesn't cover eye exams (sometimes called “eye refractions”) for eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Why doesn't Medicare cover dental?

The primary reason why Medicare does not cover dental care is because of the way the program was designed. When Medicare was created in 1965, dental care was not considered a part of routine medical care. As a result, dental coverage was not included in the original legislation.

Why are people leaving Medicare Advantage plans?

But there are trade-offs. Medicare Advantage plans often have a limited network of hospitals and physicians. And while the premiums are typically low, enrollees could end up paying more in the long run in copays and deductibles if they develop a serious illness.

What is not typically covered in Part A of Original Medicare?

Original Medicare doesn't cover some services, like routine physical exams, eye exams, and most dental care. Plans must cover all medically necessary services that Original Medicare covers. For some services, plans may use their own coverage criteria to determine medical necessity.

What is the best dental plan for senior citizens?

The Highest-Ranked Senior Dental Plans for 2025
  • Cigna - Best App.
  • Mutual of Omaha - Best coverage without waiting periods.
  • Aetna - Most Comprehensive Plans.
  • Spirit Dental & Vision - Best Loyalty Program.
  • Humana - Best Coverage.

How do I know if a dentist is covered by my insurance?

At the time of your appointment, or if you happen to be in the same area as a dental clinic, call in and ask about their insurance information. You might be looking for a dentist who accepts Aetna or curious about other leading providers like Cigna, Guardian, and Trident insurance.

Which medicare plan has the best dental plan?

Top Medicare Dental Supplement Plans
  • Humana - Known for customer service.
  • Anthem - Known for extended coverage.
  • Aetna - Known for dental network.
  • Wellcare - Known for membership perks.
  • Cigna - Known for plan benefits.
  • AARP - Known for $0 premium plans.

Are dental implants free for seniors on Medicare?

A Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) is your only option for getting dental implants covered by Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage plans provide dental benefits than can include coverage for dental implants.