Information for Seniors

Does Medicare Cover Dental Procedures?

Medicare coverage of dental services is very limited. Medicare does not cover routine dental care or most dental procedures such as cleanings, fillings, tooth extractions or dentures. Medicare does not pay for dental plates or other dental devices. In general, you pay for 100% of dental services.

This has given rise to the popularity of discount dental plans.

Section 1862 (a)(12) of the Social Security Act states in partial that Medicare will not cover dental care, “where such expenses are for services in connection with the care, treatment, filling, removal, or replacement of teeth or structures directly supporting teeth.” Structures directly supporting the teeth means the periodontium, which includes the gingivae, periodontal membrane, dentogingival junction, cementum of the teeth, and the alveolar bone (i.e. alveolar process and tooth sockets).

The dental exclusion was included as part of the initial Medicare program. The principle being that Coverage is not determined by the value or the necessity of the dental care but by the type of service provided and the anatomical structure on which the procedure is performed.

For counseling regarding what is covered by LifePerks for Health call 1(800) 643-6108.  Our Customer Care Representatives are standing by to help you with any questions you may have.