Dental Insurance

Unfortunately, Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not typically include dental coverage for routine care. This means services such as annual exams, cleanings, crowns, bridges, or dentures are not covered. With few exceptions in hospital-related or emergency dental care, you'll need to shoulder the full cost of routine dental services yourself.

But don't worry. If you're Medicare-eligible, there are several options available to help cover some of your dental care costs. Below, we'll walk you through your options so you can choose the one that aligns best with your needs and budget. 

Medicare Advantage (also called Medicare Part C) is often a great alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and approved by the government, often including extra benefits not covered by Original Medicare.

One such benefit is dental coverage, which may cover everything from cleanings to more complex dental procedures. If you're currently enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A and B), you can switch to a Medicare Advantage plan during specific enrollment periods.

If you have a Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan (Medigap), be aware that you cannot be enrolled in both a Medigap plan and Medicare Advantage simultaneously.

If your spouse is still working and has access to a group dental plan, you may qualify for dental coverage under their plan. Group plans are usually comprehensive and offer affordable premiums, providing a cost-effective way to get the dental care you need.

If you're looking for more robust dental coverage, a stand-alone dental insurance plan might be the right choice. These plans are offered by private insurance companies, require a monthly premium, and often require you to visit in-network providers to maximize benefits.

Stand-alone plans can make a significant difference in offsetting out-of-pocket costs, especially for high-cost procedures like crowns or bridges. If this route sounds appealing, FTJ Senior Insurance can guide you in finding a plan that fits your needs.

A dental discount plan offers another cost-saving option. With these plans, you pay an annual or monthly membership fee, giving you access to discounted rates on services provided by participating dentists.

While not traditional insurance, these plans can reduce your dental care costs significantly if you find an approved dentist through their network.

Understanding your dental needs and exploring available options is key to making the best decision for your health and budget. Whether you choose a Medicare Advantage plan, a spouse’s group plan, stand-alone dental insurance, or a discount plan, there are solutions to help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

Take the time to explore these opportunities and prioritize a dental care plan that works for your lifestyle. By ensuring your smile is cared for, you'll maintain not only your oral health but your overall well-being.