No, Medicare does not cover dental implants. The only dental services that Original Medicare may cover are usually those that are an essential part of a Medicare-covered procedure. For example, Medicare may cover a dental exam that you get prior to a heart valve replacement surgery or kidney transplant, as part of an overall pre-surgery exam. However, when it comes to Part A and Part B, Medicare dental coverage doesn’t cover most routine dental care.
Although Medicare does not cover dental implants or most other dental procedures directly, that doesn’t mean that you can't get dental coverage.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are available from private insurance companies that contract with Medicare. Also known as Medicare Part C, might offer coverage for dental implants and routine services.
Some Medicare Advantage plans cover additional benefits that aren’t covered by Original Medicare, and may include routine dental or vision benefits – possibly even dental implants. But it’s important to note that these additional benefits (beyond Part A and Part B benefits) may vary from one plan to another, and not every plan may be available where you live. Still, it may be worth checking into this if this coverage appeals to you.
If you're able to find a plan with dental coverage you'll typically see a waiting period before coverage for implants begin, co-pays, and an annual spending limit, ranging from $50.00 to $3,000.
There is no way to tell in advance whether a Medicare Advantage plan will cover dental implants. However, some plans do provide this coverage, and many plans provide routine dental care which may also cover parts of the dental implant process, even if the entire procedure isn’t covered. Using Medicare Advantage can be a bit more complex than Original Medicare, so make sure to weigh your options overall before you make a final decision.
To find a Medicare Advantage plan that may cover dental implants, enter your zip code on this page.
Private Health Insurance Options
Dental implants are covered by many dental insurance policies, but not all. You'll want to take a look at the plan in detail to see exactly how coverage works.
More and more dental insurance companies are paying for a portion of dental implant and restoration. Typically you'll see a waiting period of 12 months and a co-pay of 50%. Most insurance policies have annual limits, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000.
If you consider a private dental plan, check to see if they cover dental implants - some do and some don't.
Let Us Help You Find Dental Plans That Cover Dental Implants
Even though Medicare does not cover dental implants, the right Medicare Advantage plan or commercial dental insurance plan can help pay for the treatments your dentist recommends. Call 833-265-9655 or contact us here to arrange an appointment with a licensed Lehigh Partners agent.
