Does Medicare Cover Tooth Extractions?
One of Original Medicare’s drawbacks is its lack of dental coverage. Unless you need a tooth extracted to treat an underlying condition, Original Medicare won’t cover dental extractions.
That said, you have other options for dental insurance. Medicare Advantage plans often cover routine dental services and you can always purchase a private dental plan.
Key takeaways:
Original Medicare doesn’t cover tooth extractions or any other dental care that’s not medically necessary to treat another condition.
Most Medicare Advantage plans provide routine dental coverage, but coverage varies a lot from one plan to another.
You can reduce your dental costs in creative ways by getting care from a community dentist that offers reduced-cost services, dental schools, or a free dental clinic in your area.
Does Original Medicare cover tooth extractions?
Original Medicare (both Part A and Part B) don’t generally cover tooth extractions. However, there are rare exceptions where you may receive coverage for a tooth extraction under Original Medicare. If you need a dental extraction to treat an underlying health condition, Medicare will cover the procedure.
Here are some examples of when Medicare may cover dental extractions:
Jaw reconstruction or surgery
Mouth infections that spread to other parts of the body
Preparing for surgery to reduce risk of infection
Preparing for radiation treatment
Unfortunately, Medicare won’t cover a tooth extraction if you need it only to treat any kind of oral condition like gum disease, tooth decay, or impacted teeth.
Does Medicare Advantage help pay for dental extractions?
Yes, Medicare Advantage plans often include additional benefits beyond what Original Medicare offers, such as routine dental coverage. However, while the vast majority of Medicare Advantage plans have dental insurance, not all of them cover tooth extractions.
Medicare Advantage plans are operated by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare. This means that Medicare Advantage plans are required to cover Medicare-approved services, but any additional benefits that they provide don’t have to be standardized. That’s why dental benefits can vary from plan to plan.
Another aspect to note about Medicare Advantage plans is that your out-of-pocket costs can vary. Make sure you check your summary of benefits to understand what you’ll have to pay for a dental extraction. If you’re worried about the cost, it’s a good idea to ask your dentist for a quote based on your insurance before receiving care.
Finding a Medicare Advantage plan with dental coverage
Finding a Medicare Advantage plan with the dental coverage you need can be a difficult process when done on your own. It’s easy to be overwhelmed, especially if you have other healthcare needs to take into account. Let a Medicare Advisor at Chapter help you weigh your choices so you get the best coverage at an affordable cost. Call us at 855-900-2427 or schedule a time to chat today.
How much does a dental extraction cost?
The cost of a dental extraction depends on the severity of your situation. Simple extractions generally cost between $75 to $200, but extracting impacted teeth can cost up to $4,000. The type of anesthesia your dentist uses may also factor into the cost of the procedure.
Alternative cost-saving options for dental coverage
If you need a tooth extracted and you don’t have Medicare Advantage, you have a few different options available:
Find a dental school near you that offers services at a discounted rate. These services are typically done by students who are supervised by a dentist.
Purchase private dental insurance. Monthly premiums can range between $30 to $100 or more, so consider the cost of the services you need before enrolling in a plan.
Check your community for dentists that offer reduced fees and free dental care services.
Find a free dental clinic in your area.