How Can Seniors Choose the Best Medicare Dental Plans and Save?

updated on November 15, 2023

  • As we age, our dental health needs become even more critical to overall wellbeing. Seniors are at higher risk for issues like tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. Factors like dry mouth from medications, high sugar levels, and smoking can also compound dental problems. Poor oral health negatively impacts nutrition, heart health, diabetes management, and pneumonia risk in the elderly.

    Despite these concerns, 2 in 3 seniors over 65 have gum disease and 1 in 5 are completely edentulous, or toothless. Regular dental care is essential for detection and prevention, yet many seniors don't prioritize dental visits. Costs, transportation barriers, and misconceptions that they no longer need dental care are common obstacles.

    The good news is that seniors have options for affordable dental coverage through Medicare. Take the time to understand and evaluate plans that include dental to safeguard health. This article will overview the Medicare plan types that provide dental benefits, top choices to consider, and what to look for when selecting coverage as a senior. Investing in dental care is an investment in overall health.

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  • What are the Benefits of Bundling Dental with Medical Coverage?

    Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are privatized health plans that bundle Medicare Part A, Part B, and usually Part D benefits together. A major advantage of Medicare Advantage is that many plans include additional benefits beyond what traditional Medicare covers, such as vision, hearing, dental, and more.

    Key benefits of getting dental coverage through Medicare Advantage:

    • Potentially lower premiums for dental since it is bundled with medical benefits. Many plans include dental for no extra premium.

    • The convenience of having medical and dental benefits administered through one insurer using a single ID card.

    • Coordinated care between medical and dental services. Some plans offer both providers in one facility.

    There are a few drawbacks to consider as well:

    • Provider networks can be narrower compared to separate dental plans.

    • Switching Medicare Advantage plans means switching dental coverage too. Standalone dental plans offer more flexibility.

  • Top3-rated Medicare Advantage plans:

    • AARP MedicareComplete from UnitedHealthcare provides a nationwide dental network with over 5,000 providers. They offer comprehensive dental benefits including dentures and crowns with no dollar maximum. Premiums start at $0 per month and average costs are $21 per month.

    • Aetna Medicare Advantage has very affordable plans with monthly premiums starting under $20 in some states. Their dental coverage includes exams, cleanings, fillings, and dentures. Out-of-network dentists are covered with higher copays.

    • Highmark Senior Living Medicare Advantage emphasizes personalized service with care coordinators assigned to each member. Their dental plans offer $500 - $1,000 in annual benefits with in-network and out-of-network coverage. Routine care has low copays.

  • When Does Separate Dental Coverage Make Sense?

    Unlike Medicare Advantage, original Medicare does not cover dental services. This is where standalone dental plans come in - private insurance policies that strictly provide dental benefits. These plans supplement basic Medicare coverage at an additional cost. Standalone options typically fall into two main categories:

    1. Dental discount plans that provide savings on services from partner dentists. These are not insurance.

    2. Dental insurance plans that provide preventive care and help pay for procedures using copays, coinsurance, or deductibles.

    Benefits of standalone dental plans include:

    • Freedom to visit any licensed dentist, rather than being limited to a set provider network

    • Can switch dental plans without affecting your Medicare medical coverage

    • Plans range from preventive care only to comprehensive with high annual maximums

    Potential drawbacks include:

    • Paying separate premiums for medical and dental coverage

    • Limitations on covered services, especially major dental work

    Here are 3 top standalone dental plan choices:

    • Cigna Dental offers a range of plans from preventive care to major dental insurance with $1,500 annual maximums. They have a large network of dentists and competitive premiums.

    • Manhattan Dental has plans specifically designed for seniors that include vision benefits. Their mid-level plan covers basic and major services with a $1,200 annual maximum benefit.

    • National General Dental & Vision provides comprehensive dental insurance with unlimited annual maximums. Premiums start at $47 per month with free preventive care and low copays.

  • Medicare Advantage or Standalone Dental Insurance?

    In summary, Medicare Advantage plans bundle dental benefits with medical coverage, while standalone policies solely provide dental insurance. When selecting coverage, consider your budget, existing doctor relationships, and the level of dental services needed. Compare networks, costs, and maximums. Those wanting broader provider choice may prefer standalone plans, while Medicare Advantage offers coordinated care. Seek plans emphasizing preventive services to maintain dental health. Partnering with a knowledgeable insurance agent can help identify the ideal dental plan for your health and financial needs. Investing in oral wellness is invaluable at any age.

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