When I am doing a Medicare appointment, one of the questions I get asked the most is, “Does Medicare cover dental?” The answer to this question can be complicated because Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage covers dental in different ways. First let us look at Original Medicare.
Original Medicare does not cover most dental care such as routine exams, cleanings, x-rays, fillings, caps, or implants. Also, Original Medicare does not cover dentures. Original Medicare, in some cases, will cover oral surgery, particularly after an accident. If you have Original Medicare and a Medicare supplement, your supplement will not pay for dental either. Remember, your supplement will only pay the 20% Medicare does not pay. Most Medicare Advantage plans, however, have dental benefits included. Advantage Plans in Lauderdale and Colbert counties, typically, will cover 2 exams, 2 cleanings and 2 x-rays at $0 copay. You may have to pay a copay to see the dentist so check your plan’s Summary of Benefits. Also, Medicare Advantage plans can offer additional dental benefits. Some plans keep it simple. They will give you a specific dollar amount you can spend each year. You may have $500, $750, $1,000, or even $2,000 you can use towards dental, regardless of the service. Some plans, however, have a dental schedule, which means you can only get 1 extraction or 2 fillings under the benefit. Again, check your plan’s Summary of Benefits. Remember, picking the Medicare plan that is right for you is like putting a puzzle together. While dental may be important, it is only one piece of the puzzle. We still need to make sure your doctors and prescriptions drugs are covered on your plan.
If you have questions regarding any aspect of Medicare or Medicare health plans feel free call us at Alabama Health Guidance (256-648-5710), stop by our office at 885 Florence Blvd (Four Lane Shopping Center) or email me at ikey@alabamahealthguidance.com.
Alabama Health Guidance is an independent insurance agency and is not affiliated with Medicare or any other government agency.