If you’ve recently retired you probably lost the dental insurance coverage you had through your job. On top of that Medicare Part A and Part B and Medicare supplemental policies don’t offer coverage for preventive dental care. So what do you do? Seniors often have a unique set of dental problems due to age, tooth wear, type 2 diabetes, and medications, so don’t give up on your dental care. There are ways to receive proper preventive care and restorative dental treatments with discounted insurance rates, or without dental insurance.
Veterans
The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) offers dental insurance programs to veterans enrolled in the VA health care program, and to beneficiaries of the Civilian Health and Medical Program (CHAMPVA). The policies are offered through MetLife and Delta Dental at a reduced cost.
Medicare Advantage Part C
Although sold through private insurance companies, many Medicare Advantage Part C plans do offer dental coverage as well as vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage.
Dental Discount Networks
Dental discount networks can offer from 10 to 60 percent discounts on dental services and treatment from dentists who participate in the network. You pay an annual membership fee that can range from around $80 to $200 to receive discounted services. To learn more visit: http://www.dentalplans.com/.
Dental Schools
Have you ever wondered how dentists and dental hygienists learn their trade? They work on real people, and you can be one of them. Dental students overseen by experienced dental instructors provide supervised dental care for nearly half the price of a practicing dentist. For cleanings, students training as dental hygienists often provide teeth cleanings for a fraction of the cost while training at local colleges. To learn more about dental schools and dental hygienists programs near you visit: ada.org/dentalschools.
About Dr. Jeffrey Allen
Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call (641) 628-1121 today to schedule a checkup and cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit. We are located on the west side of the historic town square in Pella, IA. Please see the map for directions.