Dental implants can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $6,000 per tooth — and traditional Medicare doesn't cover them at all. But if you have a Medicare Advantage plan with enhanced dental benefits, you may be able to get partial or even substantial coverage for implants.
Does Original Medicare Cover Dental Implants?
No. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover routine dental care, and dental implants are considered routine dental care. The only dental procedures Medicare Part A covers are those medically necessary in an inpatient hospital setting.
Can Medicare Advantage Cover Dental Implants?
Yes — and this is where things get much more promising. Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies and can offer additional benefits, including dental coverage. As of 2026, many plans offer comprehensive dental that covers implants — at least partially.
Types of Dental Coverage in MA Plans
| Coverage Tier | What It Includes | Implants Covered? |
|---|---|---|
| Preventive Only | Cleanings, X-rays, exams | No |
| Basic Dental | Preventive + fillings, extractions | No |
| Comprehensive Dental | Basic + crowns, dentures, root canals, implants | Sometimes — with annual cap |
| Enhanced / Premium Dental | Full coverage including implants, higher annual max | Yes — up to annual maximum |
How Much Will Medicare Advantage Pay for Implants?
Plans that cover implants typically pay 50% of the cost after your deductible, up to your annual dental maximum:
| Annual Dental Maximum | Plan Pays (50%) | Your Out-of-Pocket |
|---|---|---|
| $1,000 | Up to $500 | $1,000–$5,500 |
| $2,000 | Up to $1,000 | $500–$5,000 |
| $3,000 | Up to $1,500 | $0–$4,500 |
| $5,000+ | Up to $2,500+ | Varies significantly |
📞 Get Help Finding a Plan That Covers Implants
Our licensed Medicare agents can search plans in your zip code and identify which ones offer the best dental implant coverage. Call us free at 1-866-340-3441 — no obligation.
What Parts of a Dental Implant Are Covered?
A dental implant involves three components billed separately:
- The implant post (titanium screw surgically placed in the jawbone)
- The abutment (the connector piece)
- The dental crown (the visible tooth-like cap)
Some plans cover only the crown, while others cover the full implant procedure. Always get a pre-authorization from your plan before scheduling surgery.
D-SNP Plans and Dental Implant Coverage
If you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid ("dual eligible"), you may be eligible for a Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP). These plans often come with richer benefits, including more generous dental coverage — annual maximums of $2,000–$5,000 or more, with implants often covered at 50%.
What Are the Waiting Periods?
Some MA dental plans have waiting periods of 6–12 months for major services like implants. Many plans have no waiting periods. If you need implants soon, ask specifically about waiting periods when shopping for a plan.
Prior Authorization for Implants
Most plans require prior authorization before the procedure. Tips for getting approved:
- Work with an in-network dentist experienced in submitting implant authorizations
- Have your dentist document medical necessity — bone loss, difficulty chewing, impact on nutrition
- Include supporting X-rays and panoramic images
- If denied, you have the right to appeal — don't give up on the first denial
How to Find a Plan That Covers Dental Implants
- Call 1-866-340-3441 — our agents can instantly search every plan in your zip code
- Look for plans with annual dental maximums of $2,000 or higher
- Confirm implants are listed as a covered service
- Check the plan's Summary of Benefits for the coinsurance rate and annual cap
- Confirm your dentist is in-network
- Ask about waiting periods for major dental services
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare Part A or Part B cover dental implants?
No. Original Medicare does not cover dental implants under any circumstances.
Are dental implants worth getting at 65+?
Absolutely — implants are the closest thing to natural teeth and can last a lifetime with proper care. Age alone is not a contraindication for implants.
Can I use a Medicare Advantage flex card for dental implants?
Some flex cards can be used for dental expenses at in-network providers. However, the allowance (typically $50–$500/quarter) is rarely enough to cover a significant portion of implant costs.
What's the average cost of a dental implant in 2026?
A single dental implant typically costs between $3,000 and $6,000, depending on location and whether bone grafting is needed.
What if my Medicare Advantage plan denies implant coverage?
You have the right to appeal. Request a written denial and ask your dentist to provide medical necessity documentation. Many appeals are successful with proper documentation.