Medicare dentures: Everything you need to know

What are dentures?

• Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues.

Why are dentures important?

• Dentures help improve chewing ability, speech, and appearance.

Does Medicare cover dentures?

• Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover most dental care, including dentures.
• Medicare Part A may cover limited dental services if they are needed for certain medical procedures, such as jaw reconstruction after an injury.
• However, Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may offer additional dental coverage, including coverage for dentures.

How to get Medicare coverage for dentures?

• If you have Original Medicare, you will need to explore other options for dental coverage, such as purchasing a stand-alone dental insurance plan or enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes dental benefits.
• Keep in mind that Medicare Advantage plans have their own rules and coverage options, so it's important to review the plan's details and network of providers.

What other options are available?

• Besides Medicare, there are other options available for affordable dental care:
• State Medicaid programs may offer dental coverage for low-income individuals.
• The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) operates federally-funded health centers that provide dental care on a sliding fee scale based on income.
• Dental schools often provide reduced-cost dental care by supervised students.

Tips for maintaining dentures

• Keep dentures clean by brushing them daily with a soft-bristle brush and a denture cleaner or mild soap.
• Handle dentures carefully to avoid dropping or damaging them.
• Remove dentures overnight to give your mouth a rest.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments.
• Properly store dentures in a clean and safe container when not in use.

Can Medicare cover denture repairs?

• Medicare may cover repairs to dentures if they are necessary due to a covered dental service, such as jaw surgery.
• However, routine denture repairs or adjustments are generally not covered by Medicare.

Conclusion

• Medicare does not typically cover dentures, but beneficiaries can explore other options for dental coverage, such as Medicare Advantage plans or stand-alone dental insurance.
• It's important to understand the coverage options and limitations before making a decision.
• Proper care and maintenance of dentures are essential for their longevity and functionality.