News & resources

Types of Dental Services Covered by Medicare

Many people are confused by the word Medicare. There is a misconception that it covers all health-related expenses. But it is not true, especially when it comes to dental care. Dental coverage differs significantly from Medicare.

This blog focuses on dental services covered under Medicare and your options in case you need to visit family dentistry in Chandler.

Does Medicare cover Dental services?

The answer is no. If you have original Medicare, then Part A and Part B don’t cover dental services, including cleaning, x-rays, filling, extraction, etc.

Does that mean Medicare doesn’t include any dental service costs?

No. Medicare will cover some of the dental costs if you have been in a fatal accident or injury which has injured your jaw, teeth, and mouth.

What is Medicare Part C?

Before you dive into Medicare Part C, you must understand what a Medicare plan includes.

It has two parts. Part A covers Hospital Insurance, and Part B covers Medical. It forms an Original Medicare Plan. It does not include any dental service coverage except for a traumatic and severe injury due to any accident or other reason.

A Medicare Advantage Plan or Part C includes additional service coverage alongside the original Medicare, including dental, vision, hearing, and other coverage.

The following services are covered under a Medicare Advantage Plan:

  • Teeth Cleaning
  • X-Rays
  • Fillings
  • Extractions
  • Other general dental care services

Also, not every Medicare Advantage Plan will cover all the services. Therefore, you must learn about your advantage plan before enrolling.

What Is A Medical Supplement Plan?

A Medical Supplement Plan is an additional coverage that can be used to pay out-of-pocket expenses, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. It is also called the Medigap plan, which covers the cost gap not covered under other plans.

As the name suggests, this plan supplements the Original Medicare plan and does not replace it. Its premium is paid separately and doesn’t form part of or replace the Original Medicare plan.

How Do Medicare Plan C and Plan D Work?

Both Medicare plan C and Plan D differ significantly. Both plans are government approved and marketed by private insurance companies. Only those enrolled in Original Medicare can apply for Plan D. Both plans are mutually exclusive. Plan D does not cover expenses of treatment under Plan C. Medicare Part D is mostly focused on prescription drug benefits, i.e., you can receive prescribed medications at a discounted price.

What Is The Alternative Of Medicare For Dental Services?

If your teeth require visiting family dentistry in Chandler frequently, other options are discussed here:

Dental Insurance

Dental coverage is a good idea for your mouth’s unique needs, but first, you must figure out how much coverage you need. Dental insurance resembles health insurance but also differs from it. It also works on a 100/80/50 coinsurance structure.

  • Preventive Maintenance (Teeth cleaning, X-ray, and routine exams)- 100% coverage.
  • Basic procedures (extraction, filling, root canals, etc.)- 80% coverage
  • Other Major Services (Implants and crowns)- 50% coverage

You can avail of immediate coverage for preventive maintenance services. There is a waiting time for major dental services, usually six months to 1 year.

Walk-In Dental Clinic

If you don’t have dental insurance, you can find a family dentistry in Chandler nearby offering affordable services.

Why Do You Need A Dental Coverage?

Be it Medicare or dental insurance; you need dental coverage because it is essential due to the following reasons:

Dental insurance covers preventive maintenance costs, which ensure that your dental health is up to the mark, and you are saved from incurring hefty costs in the future.

Insurance can reduce your overall cost of treatment. Insurance companies have a network of dentists and visiting any of them will cost you less than a walk-in visit. If your dentist is part of the network, you can avail of the services at a reduced price.

A dental emergency is expensive, and without dental insurance, it will cost you much more than expected. Thus, dental coverage will come in handy.

The Best Family Dentistry In Chandler

Peace of Mind Dental Studio is a family Dentistry in Chandler which offers affordable treatments; you don’t have to worry about payment methods as we participate in all major dental insurances, including Cigna and Delta.

You can contact us anytime if you have any doubts regarding dental insurance in Chandler. 

Written by Dr. Silverman

Dr. Silverman is the co-founder of Peace of Mind Dental, a Chandler Arizona, general dentistry practice.

Categories