Does Medicare cover dental? What’s covered and your options

Medicare covers a lot of your health care needs, but dental coverage works differently than you might expect. If you’ve been asking “Does Medicare cover dental?” and you haven’t gotten a clear answer, this guide breaks down what’s covered and what to do next.
 

Does Medicare cover dental treatments?

Original Medicare may cover medical services related to dental care in certain situations, but usually not the dental treatment itself. Routine services like cleanings, fillings, extractions, dentures, and other common dental work aren't included.

There are limited exceptions. Medicare may cover certain dental services when they're part of necessary medical treatment rather than standalone dental care. These cases usually involve dental work connected to a larger medical issue.
 

Why dental care is important

Your oral health affects more than just your teeth and gums. Research shows connections between dental health and heart disease, diabetes, and even mental health, especially for seniors. Regular dental care helps you catch problems early and supports your overall well-being.
 

Medicare and dental coverage: what Part A and Part B cover (and what they don’t)

Many people assume Medicare handles dental care like it handles doctor visits or hospital stays. Parts A and B do focus on medical services, but not routine dental work. 

Here's what's typically not included:
 

• Routine cleanings and exams
• Fillings and extractions
• Root canals
• Dentures and bridges
• Crowns
   

Does Medicare cover dental in specific situations? Yes, the exception is when dental care is part of treating a medical condition. Part A may cover inpatient hospital services connected to dental treatment in specific circumstances when hospitalization is required because of your medical condition or the severity of the procedure. Part B may cover certain dental services if they’re needed to treat an oral infection or complication before or during covered cancer treatment.

Before you schedule any treatment, ask your provider how they'll bill the service. They should be able to tell you if it’s a Medicare-covered dental procedure or if you'll pay out of pocket.
 

Does Medicare offer dental coverage through Medicare Advantage (Part C)?

Many Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits as an added feature. However, what's included varies significantly from plan to plan, so review the details carefully. When comparing plans, pay attention to:
 

• Covered services
• Dentist network
• Costs
• Annual maximums
• Waiting periods
• Prior authorization
   

These factors determine whether the dental Medicare coverage you're considering is worth the cost.
 

What are Medicare-covered dental services?

What counts as "covered" depends on which type of Medicare coverage you have. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) rarely pays for dental services, while dental with Medicare Advantage plans may include benefits with different rules.

Typically not covered by Original Medicare:
 

• Cleanings and exams
• X-rays
• Fillings and extractions
• Dentures and bridges
• Root canals
   

May be covered in limited cases:
 

• Inpatient hospital services connected to dental treatment in limited circumstances
• Procedures needed before cancer treatment
• JJaw surgery for fractures or tumors
• Dental exams before kidney transplant, bone marrow transplant, or heart valve replacement
  
  

Check your plan documents or contact your insurance provider to confirm coverage before scheduling treatment.
 

How do you get dental coverage if Medicare doesn’t include it?

If Original Medicare doesn't pay for the dental care you need, you have options. Here are two practical ways to get coverage that supports preventive care and helps you budget for treatment.

Choose a Medicare Advantage plan that includes dental

Many Medicare Advantage plans bundle dental benefits with medical coverage. When you're comparing options, check the dentist network, covered services, out-of-pocket costs, annual maximum, approval requirements, and exclusions to find the right fit.
 

Buy a separate dental insurance plan

A standalone dental insurance plan gives you predictable benefits and supports preventive care. When comparing plans, consider:
 

• Preventive coverage
• Major services
• Waiting periods
• Network size
• Annual maximum
   

Delta Dental offers a broad network of dentists, flexible plan options, and a focus on preventive care.
 

Find the dental coverage you need

Medicare doesn't typically pay for routine dental care, but you have options to get the coverage you need. Your oral health connects to your overall wellness in important ways, so having the right coverage matters. Start by confirming which type of Medicare you have, then explore dental coverage options that match your needs and budget.

Learn more about plans for you and your family.

Last updated June 18, 2026