Does Medicare Cover Dental? What Seniors Need to Know
Reviewed by Galit Sacajiu MD, MPH
One of the most common questions from Medicare beneficiaries is: does Medicare cover dental care? The short answer is: **not much — but there are options**.
Original Medicare and Dental Coverage
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover routine dental care, including: - Dental exams - Cleanings - Fillings - Tooth extractions (in most cases) - Dentures - Most crowns and bridges
When Medicare Does Cover Dental Work
Medicare Part A may pay for dental care only when it is medically necessary as part of a covered inpatient hospital procedure — for example, jaw reconstruction after an accident or oral examination required before a covered organ transplant.
How to Get Dental Coverage Through Medicare
The most common way to get dental coverage as a Medicare beneficiary is through a **Medicare Advantage plan**. Most Medicare Advantage plans include some level of dental benefits, ranging from basic preventive care to comprehensive coverage including major dental work.
See our [Medicare Advantage guide](/medicare-advantage) to compare plans with dental coverage in your area.