What dental plans cover
Dental plans usually group care into three levels. Preventive care, such as cleanings, exams, and X-rays, is often covered at a high percentage. Basic care, such as fillings, is covered at a lower percentage. Major care, such as crowns, root canals, bridges, and dentures, is covered at the lowest percentage.
Many dental plans have waiting periods before basic or major care is covered, and most have an annual maximum benefit. If you expect major dental work soon, tell your advisor so they can look for plans with shorter waiting periods.
What vision plans cover
Vision plans typically cover a yearly eye exam and give you an allowance toward frames, lenses, or contact lenses, often with discounts on extras like lens coatings.
Dental and vision with other coverage
- ACA health plans include dental and vision care for children, but usually not for adults.
- Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental or vision care. Some Medicare Advantage plans include these benefits.
- A standalone dental or vision plan can fill these gaps for adults.
How we help
Your advisor compares dental and vision plans, checks waiting periods and annual maximums, and makes sure your dentist or eye doctor is in network where possible. There is no cost to use our service.
Common questions
Can I buy dental insurance on its own?
Yes. Standalone dental and vision plans are available whether or not you have health insurance.
What is a waiting period?
It’s the time you must be enrolled before certain services are covered. Preventive care often has no waiting period, while major work may have one.
Does Medicare cover dental and vision?
Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental or vision care. Some Medicare Advantage plans do, and standalone plans are another option.