Seniors with Medicare may want to consider a supplemental dental care policy.
Medicare does not cover the most basic types of dental care, such as routine cleanings, fillings and dental screens. However, Medicare does cover dental work performed as part of a course of treatment for another covered condition under Medicare Part A or Part B. Due to the lack of comprehensive dental coverage, the U.S. government has authorized private insurance companies to develop and sell dental insurance as a supplement to Medicare.
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A is a hospital insurance policy, according to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry, that covers hospital stays for those enrolled in the program. Medicare Part A covers dental procedures performed in the hospital as part of another medical procedure or treatment plan. Examples include dental exams prior to kidney replacement surgery, surgical procedures to reconstruct part of the mouth following tumor extraction, and wiring the jaw shut to treat a jaw fracture. According to the Medicare website, hospital stays following a dental emergency are covered, though the dental care itself is not.
Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B is a medical insurance policy covering outpatient procedures performed by medical doctors and surgeons. Like Part A, this Medicare program does not cover routine dental work. However, dental services conducted as part of another medical procedure are included in the Medicare Part B coverage. For example, Part B covers dental splints following jaw dislocation, according to the Medicare website.
Medigap Insurance Policies
According to the Consumer Guide to Dentistry, many private insurance companies have developed supplemental plans, known as Medigap insurance policies, to cover dental procedures excluded by Medicare. Individuals must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B in order to become eligible for a Medigap plan. Each plan may carry separate premiums. Married couples must enroll in Medigap plans as separate individuals.
Medicare Dental Advantage Plans
In addition to Medigap, consumers may choose to enroll in a Medicare Dental Advantage plan. These plans are run by private companies. In order to enroll in a Medicare Dental Advantage plan, an individual must be eligible for Medicare. These programs are approved by Medicare and state governments to provide low-cost dental services to seniors. Some require copays while others require a monthly premium. Individuals should compare plans from providers to determine which are best matched to their needs.
