What Original Medicare may cover
Medicare Part A or B may pay for some dental services when they’re integral to a covered medical procedure, for example, a dental exam before certain heart or transplant procedures, or care related to jaw reconstruction after an injury. Check Medicare.gov for the current list.
How seniors get dental coverage
- Medicare Advantage (Part C): many plans include dental benefits, from preventive-only to more comprehensive care, often with annual maximums.
- Standalone dental insurance for seniors.
- Dental discount plans: see discount plans vs insurance.
- Medicaid in some states covers adult dental for people who qualify for both programs.
- Dental schools and community health centers: see free and low-cost dental care.
Tips for choosing a plan
Check the annual maximum, waiting periods, whether dentures and implants are covered, and whether your dentist is in network. Estimate costs with our dental cost estimator.
Coverage rules change; confirm details with Medicare or your plan.
