Best Dental Insurance for Seniors on Medicare

If you’re a senior over 65, are you visiting the dentist regularly? Studies find that 1 in 5 seniors have lost more than 24 teeth.

Good dental hygiene becomes more important as we age because our bodies don’t heal the way they used to when we were younger. You’re more susceptible to gum disease and tooth decay as a senior.

Unfortunately, many Americans neglect their dental health, resulting in costly tooth problems. Visiting the dentist can be expensive, leaving you wondering about the best dental insurance for seniors on Medicare.

Keep reading to learn more about dental insurance on Medicare in the US.

Types of Dental Insurance

Getting dental insurance is an excellent way to ensure you can afford to look after your teeth. In America, you can choose from several types of dental insurance, each with its own monthly premiums, out-of-pocket costs, deductibles, benefits, etc. Let’s look at some of the more common dental plans available.

Dental Preferred Provider Organizations (DPPO)

If you have this type of insurance, you will have a range of network providers to choose from. Of course, you also have the option to see a dentist out of the network, but expect to pay more if you do this. Additionally, with this type of insurance, you don’t have to designate a primary care dentist.

Dental Savings or Dental Discount Plans

This type of insurance differs slightly from the rest in that you pay a predetermined amount annually, which allows you discounted rates at participating dentists throughout the year.

Generally, these plans have lower premiums than other, more comprehensive plans. It’s important to note that there is no reimbursement paperwork or coinsurance to complete.

Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO)

With this type of insurance, some of your preventative dental care is fully covered. These services include:

• Cleanings
• Exams
• X-Rays

If you are on a budget, DHMO is typically less expensive than other dental insurance plans. With this insurance, you must designate a primary care dentist. Again, these dentists must be in the plan’s network; otherwise, the care won’t be covered.

Managed Fee-For-Service Plans

This insurance plan lets you choose from a much more extensive network of dentists. Members pay a certain percentage for each dental service, and the plan pays the remainder based on the deductible and the maximum yearly benefit.

Dental Insurance Options on Medicare

If you’re on Medicare, your dental coverage may vary. For instance, there are two primary types of Medicare: Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Advantage.

1. Medicare Part A

This is a hospital plan, so dental procedures are not covered. If you visit the dentist for regular cleanings, root canals, fillings, crowns, etc., you must cover these costs out of your own pocket.

However, dental emergencies are covered by this Medicare plan. This coverage depends entirely on whether your dental procedure requires a hospital visit or a stayover. For example, if you’re having all your wisdom teeth extracted.

2. Medicare Advantage

You need Medicare Advantage if you want dental care included in your Medicare policy. This type of plan is typically bundled with Medicare Part A. Additionally, it’s important to note that including dental care in your plan may cost extra.

Best Dental Insurance for Seniors on Medicare

As a senior, taking care of your teeth is essential, especially if you’ve already started to experience problems like tooth loss. If you’re on Medicare, some dental plans are geared toward people over 65. Let’s review the best dental insurance for seniors on Medicare here:

1. Aetna – Best for Seniors on Medicare

Aetna dental insurance has four Medicare Advantage plans available in nearly every state. Coverage can cost you around $2,000 per year.

This plan also offers excellent benefits for routine dental care. With this plan, your benefits could include:

• Oral exams
• Cleanings
• X-Rays
• Fillings
• Root Canals
• Extractions
• Crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures

2. United Healthcare – Best Flexible Premiums

United Healthcare offers three policies for seniors on Medicare. Like Aetna, this plan provides Medicare Advantage, allowing flexible premiums across an extensive network. Unfortunately, your plan options may be limited depending on where you live.

It’s also worth noting that only some Advantage plans include dental coverage, so ensure you confirm this before committing. The coverage limit for this dental insurance provider is between $1,000 and $2,500.

3. Humana – Best Technology Features

Humana dental insurance has seven insurance policy types you can choose between. The coverage limit is around $2,000; however, only some of the plans include dental care.

If you’re a technology-savvy senior, you may enjoy this insurance provider for the mobile app included. The app lets you view claims, list medications, and earn rewards for meeting health goals.

4. Cigna – Best For Special Needs

While Cigna only offers two policy types, you can choose from an extensive list of network providers. This plan is best for special dental needs because it provides a policy with an increased range of services should you need them. The coverage limit with Cigna is $1,000; however, not every plan includes dental services.

Get a Senior Dental Plan for Healthy Teeth

If you’re over 65, knowing your options is essential when deciding on the best dental insurance. While many dental plans have more than one policy option, not all include dental, so check this when deciding. Whether you’re after flexible premiums, excellent customer service, or modern technology like mobile apps, there is a Medicare dental plan for you.

If you have questions call us at (402) 972-0820 or schedule a free consultation. Our experienced team can help you understand and navigate Medicare’s complexities. Let us be part of your journey toward better health!