Dental Coverage for Senior Citizens

Senior citizens have several options when it comes to health coverage. The same holds true for dental coverage, but not all medical coverage suppliers for seniors also offer an option for dental care. As with any other group, seniors can save money and get access to the best care by comparing options and understanding the costs involved.

Significance

• Dental health is important for people of all ages. However, it has a special significance for seniors. Seniors are more likely than the younger population to require dental procedures including extractions, tooth replacement and root canals. In addition, some seniors are more prone to illness due to dental problems, including infections. Fixed incomes mean that seniors may not be able to afford all of the dental services they need on their own. This means that seniors need regular dental examinations and access to affordable dental treatment to maintain good physical and financial health.

Medicare Coverage

• Many seniors receive the majority of their health care coverage through Medicare, which offers government subsidies that keep the cost of care at affordable levels. However, Medicare only includes dental coverage in limited scenarios. For example, Medicare may pay for dental procedures when they are part of a larger health issue, such as a jaw injury. Medicare also pays for dental exams before certain kidney and heart procedures. However, if a physician finds a dental problem requiring attention, Medicare will not cover the cost of treatment.

Private Insurance

• Seniors who don't have dental coverage through a pension plan may need to purchase their own dental coverage from a private insurance company. Individual plans come in several forms, including HMOs and PPOs. These types of organizations offer coverage specifically for seniors, including plans that anyone over age 65 is guaranteed eligibility. They allow plan members to select from a list of dental care providers. Rates vary based on an individual's deductible and level of coverage. Traditional dental insurance, or dental indemnity coverage, is another form of private insurance that reimburses seniors for a portion of the dental care they pay for. It allows them to choose any dentist but requires a waiting period before seniors receive reimbursement for the cost of care.

Discount Plans

• Seniors can also take advantage of dental discount plans, which offer a lower-cost alternative to private dental insurance. Discount plans offer low monthly rates and don't use deductibles, annual maximums or reimbursement. Instead, they entitle seniors who purchase a plan to discounted dental care through participating care providers. Discount plans are among the most affordable options for seniors who don't need regular or extensive care. However, they also provide the least financial protection.