Navigate the Medicare Dental Dilemma

Emotions run high for pre-retirees. The retirement cloud comes in two forms—one part white and fluffy (no more work!) —

Medicare doesn't cover dental care. Luckily, you have other options.
Medicare doesn’t cover dental care. Luckily, you have other options.

another dark and ominous (no more benefits?).

Medicare doesn’t cover dental—including procedures, care or devices. Medicare will only cover it if it’s required as part of overarching medical care or procedure.

Get your head out of the clouds and refocus your retirement. Here are three ways to plan ahead:

• Take care now.

Neglecting dental care now can lead to larger health issues down the road. Many medical emergencies happen unexpectedly. Fortunately, you can control your dental health. Brush and floss daily and see the dentist for regular checkups. Find out your dental health score.

• Consider alternatives.

Though Medicare doesn’t cover dental, there are other options. Medicare Advantage plans typically offer hearing, vision and dental coverage. These plans aren’t right for everyone, so look at your state’s offerings to see what’s best for you.

• Investigate low-cost resources.

Less than 1 in 6 pre-retirees have ever attempted to estimate healthcare costs during retirement, according to a report by Merrill Lynch. While you’re budgeting, add these low-cost dental resources to your list.

Plan now for a stress-free and healthy retirement.

Previous articleFirsts A Smile Can Make or Break
Next articleOne Rule Babysitters Shouldn’t Break
Caroline Jacobson
Caroline Jacobson serves as a social media writer for Delta Dental of Arizona. Based in Colorado and originally from the Deep South, Caroline recently graduated from the University of Denver with her Masters in Strategic Communications. Before joining Delta Dental, she worked as a marketing manager and social media specialist for an Alabama firm. Caroline has always had a passion for non-profits, recently working with the Denver Center for Performing Arts and PBS. In her spare time, she enjoys outdoor activities with the three main men in her life: her husband and two long-haired dachshunds, Kyle and Brad. [Editor's Note: Caroline is no longer a current DD employee.]