One of the most surprising things I learned about my teeth when I was already in my 40s was that losing my teeth is not preordained. I always thought that everyone loses their teeth and someday I would have to wear dentures. Not so said my dentist. Instead, it can come down to good dental hygiene to help me prevent developing a gum disease or wearing out of my teeth before I wear out. Since then I have strived to see a dentist twice a year to help me remove plaque and tartar (leading causes of teeth decay) as well as identify cavities via x-rays. I’ve been fortunate, I’ve had health insurance throughout the years that has helped pay for my dentist visits. However, now that I’m older and can see the Medicare train down the road I’ve learned that generally Medicare does not have dental service coverage (medicare.gov)!
So, what can be done now that we know something to plan for?
Since you can receive Medicare through the Original Medicare plan or through a Medicare Advantage plan then we need to consider how dental coverage can be received through either plan.
If you have Original Medicare, then the best way to get dental coverage is to pay for a separate individual dental plan.
If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, then you want to verify that your plan does indeed have dental coverage. Advantage plans come at a price of flexibility, you have to use those doctors in that particular plan, pay those particular deductibles and be ready to change if your plan changes and leaves you behind.
Either way you go you’ll want to verify these features in your dental plan:
- What do they cover? (Preventative, oral surgery, etc.,)
- What will be the deductible amounts?
- When will your coverage begin?
- What is the maximum amount they will cover?
- Is your dentist on their list of approved dentists?
- Do you have upcoming dental high costs needs that you need to consider?
My preferred method is to apply for Original Medicare, this is not always the best way but is my preferred way. And while you are still working and if you are eligible, save money in a Health Savings Account so that you can afford to pay for an individual dental plan during your Medicare Years. This takes early planning so start working on it as soon as possible. Overall, this method should give you the most flexibility.