Original Medicare does not cover routine dental and vision screening as a benefit.[0] This means that corrective lenses (e.g., glasses and contacts), dental cleanings, dentures, and routine eye exams are not covered. Those preventive services aside, it does cover some vision care that directly relates to medical screenings for cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Dental procedures are rarely covered unless they are needed before major surgery (e.g., a kidney transplant or heart surgery) or before radiation treatment for head and neck cancer.
Most Medicare Advantage plans can offer these additional benefits.[1] You will need to read the policy to find out what specific services are covered.
Does Original Medicare cover dental or vision?
Original Medicare does not cover routine dental and vision screening as a benefit. This means that corrective lenses (e.g., glasses and contacts), dental cleanings, dentures, and routine eye exams are not covered. Those preventive services aside, it does cover some vision care that directly relates to medical screenings for cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Dental procedures are rarely covered unless they are needed before major surgery (e.g., a kidney transplant or heart surgery) or before radiation treatment for head and neck cancer.
Most Medicare Advantage plans can offer these additional benefits. You will need to read the policy to find out what specific services are covered.