As we get older, taking care of our teeth and eyesight becomes even more important. Regular dental cleanings, eye exams, glasses, and other services can help you stay healthy and comfortable.
But one surprise for many people turning 65 is that Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental or vision care.
So, what are your options?
What Does Original Medicare Cover?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) generally does not cover routine services such as:
- Dental cleanings and exams
- Fillings, crowns, and dentures
- Routine eye exams for glasses or contacts
- Eyeglasses and contact lenses
There are certain situations where Medicare may cover dental or vision-related services when they are connected to a covered medical condition or procedure. Medicare Part B also covers certain eye exams and treatments for people who meet specific requirements.
However, for everyday dental and vision care, you may need additional coverage.
Option 1: Medicare Advantage
Some Medicare Advantage plans include additional benefits for dental, vision, and sometimes hearing care.
Depending on the plan, benefits could include routine dental cleanings, X-rays, eye exams, or an allowance toward glasses or contacts.
The amount of coverage can vary significantly from one plan to another, so it’s important to look beyond whether a plan simply says it includes “dental and vision.”
Option 2: Stand-Alone Dental and Vision Insurance
If you have Original Medicare or your current health plan doesn’t provide enough dental or vision coverage, you may be able to purchase a separate dental and vision insurance plan.
These plans can help with routine care and, depending on the policy, may also provide benefits for services such as fillings, crowns, dentures, glasses, and contacts.
Before enrolling, pay attention to the plan’s monthly premium, provider network, deductibles, waiting periods, coverage limits, and annual maximums.
Option 3: Dental Discount Plans
A dental discount plan is different from dental insurance.
Instead of the insurance company paying part of your bill, you generally pay a membership fee and receive discounted rates from participating dental providers.
These plans can be helpful in certain situations, but it’s important to understand exactly what discounts are available and whether your dentist participates.
Which Option Is Right for You?
There isn’t one dental or vision plan that’s best for everyone.
Think about the care you expect to need. Do you primarily want coverage for cleanings and exams? Do you wear glasses or contacts? Are you anticipating crowns, dentures, implants, or other significant dental work?
It’s also important to check whether your current dentist and eye doctor are in the plan’s network before enrolling.
Don’t Choose Based on the Extra Benefits Alone
Dental and vision benefits can be valuable, but if you’re considering a Medicare Advantage plan, they shouldn’t be the only reason you choose it.
Your doctors, prescriptions, medical benefits, costs, and healthcare needs should remain important parts of the decision.
Need Help Understanding Your Options?
Dental and vision coverage can look straightforward until you start comparing the details. Coverage limits, networks, waiting periods, and allowances can make two seemingly similar plans very different.
Jordan Shanbrom can help you review your options and understand how dental and vision coverage may fit alongside your Medicare coverage and overall needs.
Schedule an appointment to review your options and find coverage that makes sense for you.