Finding affordable dental care isn't easy, especially for seniors on a fixed income. Unfortunately, dental coverage through Medicare is extremely limited - it does not cover the basics you need to help keep your teeth healthy. If you are on Medicare and want to have coverage for most dental care, you can buy a supplemental plan, switch to a Medicare Advantage plan that includes dental coverage or buy insurance through a private company.
Typically, dental plans provide tiers of benefits, with the higher tiers costing more:
Preventive Care
Preventive care coverage includes cleanings and most routine care. It may or may not have a waiting period, deductible or copay, depending on the plan.
Basic Coverage
Basic coverage is typically for services like simple fillings and simple restorative work. Each company will define this coverage differently.
Major Coverage
This may include services like root canals, crowns, dentures, and bridges.
