Dental and Vision Plans After 65: What Are Your Options?
When you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare, many people are surprised to learn that dental and vision care aren’t included. Cleanings, crowns, eye exams, glasses—all the things you’ve relied on for years suddenly aren’t covered. In this post, I’ll explain what Medicare does and doesn’t cover, walk through your options for filling the gaps, and help you figure out which type of plan might be right for you.
Table of Contents:
The Medicare Coverage Gap (That No One Warns You About)
What Medicare Covers (and What It Doesn’t)
Common Dental and Vision Expenses After 65
Why Coverage Matters More Than Ever
Your Options for Dental and Vision Plans
Standalone Dental and Vision Insurance
Medicare Advantage Plans with Extra Benefits
Discount Plans vs. Insurance
How to Choose the Right Plan for You
Final Thoughts: Take Care of What Matters
FAQ
1. The Medicare Coverage Gap (That No One Warns You About)
If you’re nearing 65, you probably feel a sense of relief knowing that Medicare is on the horizon. You’ll finally have coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and most preventive care.
But there’s one thing a lot of people don’t realize until they’re at the dentist or the eye doctor: Medicare doesn’t cover dental or vision care.
It’s a common misunderstanding. I’ve had many clients show up with bills they didn’t expect because they assumed a cleaning, crown, or pair of glasses would be included. And I get it—these aren’t luxuries. They’re basics.
2. What Medicare Covers (and What It Doesn’t)
Let’s break it down:
Medicare Covers:
Doctor visits
Hospital stays
Preventive services (like mammograms or colonoscopies)
Some medically necessary procedures
Medicare Does Not Cover:
Routine dental exams
Cleanings and fillings
Dentures or extractions
Eye exams for glasses or contacts
Eyeglasses or frames
Contact lenses
You might get limited coverage if your dental or vision issue is part of a larger medical condition (e.g., cataract surgery), but for routine care? You’re on your own unless you add extra protection.
3. Common Dental and Vision Expenses After 65
Here are just a few things I’ve seen clients need (and pay for out-of-pocket) without a plan:
Two cleanings and an exam: $200–400/year
One crown: $900–1,500
Full set of dentures: $1,000–3,000
Eye exam and glasses: $300–500
Cataract follow-up visits and specialty lenses: $800+
For many people on a fixed income, these expenses can really add up.
4. Why Coverage Matters More Than Ever
Here’s the thing: as we age, dental and vision care become even more important—not less.
Dental health is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and even cognitive decline.
Poor vision increases your risk of falls, injuries, and isolation.
Taking care of your eyes and teeth isn’t just about comfort. It’s about independence, confidence, and overall well-being. That’s why I always encourage my clients to get coverage, even if they think they don’t need it right now.
5. Your Options for Dental and Vision Plans
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but there are great choices out there. Let’s walk through them:
✔ Standalone Dental and Vision Insurance
These are separate plans you can enroll in at any time (not tied to Medicare enrollment periods).
Monthly premiums typically range from $20–50/month depending on the benefits.
You can find plans that cover exams, cleanings, fillings, and even major work like crowns or dentures.
Some plans also bundle vision coverage—including eye exams and allowances for glasses or contacts.
Pros: Easy to enroll, affordable options, flexible choices
Cons: May have waiting periods for major services or annual benefit caps
✔ Medicare Advantage Plans with Extra Benefits
These are all-in-one plans that replace Original Medicare and often include dental and vision.
Some plans offer generous allowances for cleanings, X-rays, glasses, and hearing aids.
You’ll need to use their network of providers.
Pros: Built-in benefits, convenient, may include other extras (gym memberships, hearing coverage)
Cons: Limited networks, benefits vary by plan and location
✔ Discount Plans (Not Insurance)
These aren’t insurance, but they offer pre-negotiated discounts on dental and vision services.
Memberships typically cost $10–15/month.
You pay the provider directly, but at a reduced rate.
Pros: Very low cost, no waiting periods
Cons: No reimbursement—you pay out-of-pocket for everything
6. How to Choose the Right Plan for You
When I help clients choose a dental or vision plan, I always start with three questions:
What kind of care do you expect to need this year?
Just cleanings? Or more extensive dental work?
What’s your budget for monthly premiums and potential out-of-pocket costs?
A lower monthly premium might mean higher co-pays later.
Do you already have a dentist or eye doctor you love?
Make sure they’re in-network with the plan you choose.
Once we have that info, it’s easier to match you with a plan that fits your needs without overpaying.
7. Final Thoughts: Take Care of What Matters
You’ve worked too hard to let something like a cracked tooth or blurry vision disrupt your retirement.
The good news? Dental and vision coverage is easy to get and doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you want something simple or more comprehensive, there’s a plan out there for you.
And if you’re not sure where to start—I’d be happy to help. This is what I do every day, and I’d be honored to walk you through your options.
8. FAQ
Q: Can I get dental and vision coverage anytime, or do I have to wait for Medicare Open Enrollment?
Yes! Most standalone dental and vision plans are available year-round.
Q: Are there plans that cover dentures or implants?
Some dental plans offer partial coverage for dentures or implants, though there may be waiting periods.
Q: Do I need a separate plan for dental and one for vision?
Not necessarily—many companies offer combo plans that cover both.
Q: What if I already have a Medicare Advantage plan?
Check your plan benefits! You might already have dental or vision coverage included—and I can help you review it.
Q: How do I find the best plan for my situation?
Let’s talk it through. I’ll ask a few questions, help you compare your options, and make sure you’re covered where it counts.
