I have Original Medicare, and I'm wondering if I'd save more on my dental cleanings if I switched to a Medicare Advantage plan instead.

Question

Melissa Barton · Accepted Answer

Yes you can save money on dental cleanings if you switch to a Medicare Advantage plan. Most Advantage plan include $0 copay for cleanings, x-rays, preventive care, and extraction.

Gary Church · Answer

I would stay with original Medicare along with a Med Supp. Purchase an individual dental plan. Check with your dentist about which dental plans they accept. Medicare Advantage plans offer a basic dental coverage, usually as an HMO, which may have a limited network.

Answered by Gary Church on August 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in Ca, AZ, NV & TX

Answered by Gary Church Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

Hi, thanks for watching. So the question is, this person has original Medicare and they're wondering if they'd save money on dental cleanings if they switch to a Medicare Advantage plan instead. I will say that most Medicare Advantage plans have some sort of dental benefit, which typically includes cleaning. A lot of them have comprehensive coverage, like fillings, crowns, and some even have implant coverage, depending on the plan and the carrier. But original Medicare does not have any dental benefits like cleaning attached to it. You'd have to go on a Medicare Advantage plan or purchase a separate dental plan, which is out there. In fact, I just ran across one recently that's very comprehensive. If somebody has original Medicare with a supplement, the individual standalone dental plans are really good and they can be very comprehensive.

Mike Alexander · Answer

1st, make sure all your doctors and hospitals take the Advantage plan. you prefer
A lot of advantageous plans have dental coverage
And you should check to see which ones have the best dental coverage

Mark Bilgere · Answer

If you have original Medicare a d a supplement then you have no dental benefits. Mant Advantage Plans offer some dental benefits including cleanings. However changing g from a supplement to an Advantage plan just for dental cleanings is not a good idea. The Healthcare available to you with the supplement far outweighs the small savings you would get by switching to an Advantage Plan.

Answered by Mark Bilgere on November 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK

Answered by Mark Bilgere Medicare Insurance Agent

Daniel Brechin · Answer

I have several Medicare Advantage plans that include dental coverage. I have a plan that also refunds your part B charge.   I would be happy to answer your questions.
Daniel Brechin
Contact me.
I have worked with Medicare enrolled for over 35 years
Thank You

Norman Smith · Answer

Please don’t do that!!! That would be one of the worst decisions of your life!
Currently you are in total control of your health decisions, you have coverage that carries anywhere in the ISA and have the choice of the BEST MEDICAL CARE AVAILABLE! To go to a MA plan is to voluntarily give those things up for the benefit of a dental cleaning? Compare that to needing the best Doctor for cancer, heart, lungs, blood issues, surgeries, and rehabilitation choices. 
You are better to find a dental plan through private options or AAA or AMAC. But don’t give the freedom of the best health options for that!

Lt Col Tim Brown · Answer

Most Medicare Advantage plans (MAPD) come with Dental, hearing and vision and if you have an MAPD plan with a zero premium, then you certainly are getting that dental benefit at no charge to you.  I'd be glad to help you if you'd like to call. 

I'm licensed in 13 states.

Lt Col Tim Brown, LUTCF

Larry Dalton · Answer

Choosing between traditional Medicare with a supplemental plan and a Medicare Advantage plan involves careful consideration of your specific needs and priorities, particularly regarding dental coverage. 

Traditional Medicare, along with a supplemental plan, offers the advantage of immediate coverage at any provider that accepts Medicare, providing peace of mind with no unexpected costs. On the other hand, opting for a Medicare Advantage plan means transitioning to a private insurance group that may offer additional options, including dental coverage. 

However, it’s important to note that with these plans, you may have access to a more limited network through PPO and HMO options, and pre-approval for certain services might be required. Ultimately, the decision comes down to balancing your desired coverage with your plans for future travel or any specialized care needs outside of your local area.

Terri Reagin · Answer

Yes, it is possible that the dental coverage will be better with your medicare advantage plan. It is important though that you don't make decisions on your dental without considering the fact advantage plans are also tied to your medical. Make sure you understand all the implications of making the switch by talking to a local agent

Answered by Terri Reagin on July 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK, AR, CO & 6 other states

Answered by Terri Reagin Medicare Insurance Agent

George Ibanez · Answer

Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement is a much better plan than any Medicare Advantage plan but they do not include Dental or vision, however you can purchase a Dental and Vision plan and keep your Medicare Supplement plan, and it would be a far better solution.

For more information contact George Ibanez.

Ann Sanfelippo · Answer

Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care; therefore, if your Medicare Advantage plan covers cleanings, it will save you money. Keep in mind, that Medicare Advantage is a major medical plan with ancillary benefits, so care must be taken to ensure the plan is a good fit for you before enrolling.

Answered by LaTosha Turknett on June 4, 2026

Broker Licensed in TX, FL, LA, NV, NY & OK

Answered by LaTosha Turknett Medicare Insurance Agent

Pamela Masters · Answer

It depends on the Medicare Advantage plan. Some Medicare advantage plans have coverage for cleanings and even comprehensive dental as well. 
Original Medicare doesn’t cover dental at all so you would either pay out of pocket or purchase a stand alone dental plan to help cover your needs.

Gregg Matheny · Answer

You definitely would save more on an advantage plan in the dental category. Everybody’s needs vary and so it really depends on what is best for you but if you’re medical needs are very easily managed or non-existent then it’s not a bad idea to invest more into your vision, dental, and hearing (which original Medicare doesn’t cover) and Medicare advantage has a reputation for offering some high dental benefits. The first step is to talk to a broker about “good plans” with a good dental benefit.

Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ & UT

Answered by Gregg Matheny Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Graves · Answer

Yes, you could likely save money on dental cleanings with a Medicare Advantage plan compared to Original Medicare, which doesn’t cover routine dental care.

Many Advantage plans include preventive dental services—such as cleanings, exams, and X-rays—often at little or no cost. Keep in mind that coverage details vary by plan. Be sure to review:

Whether your dentist is in the plan’s network

Any annual limits on dental benefits (often around $1,000–$1,500)

Possible copays or cost-sharing for services

If you’re currently paying out of pocket for cleanings, switching to a Medicare Advantage plan could help lower those expenses.

It may not be of value to you to leave your Medicare supplement and go with a Medicare Advantage plan.  Please consult a Medicare Broker in your area for advice and to review your medical and dental needs. You can always purchase a stand-alone dental plan. 


Serving ALL of Texas, California & Florida
Contact me.

Mary Turner · Answer

I would never change to a Medicare advantage plan for something like dental cleanings. Depending on your situation you could save in one area while adding more expense to another. If, however, you need extensive dental, the right plan could help you save.

Answered by Mary Turner on March 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Mary Turner Medicare Insurance Agent

Mitchell Jerome · Answer

Original Medicare covers very little dental care. Basically if you had a severe jaw infection, or cancer in mouth; a critical medical need. It will not cover preventative or comprehensive care. 
A Medicare Advantage will grant you much more coverage vs original medicare for dental. Depending on the plan you can have some very good preventative and comprehensive care.

Mariela Arana · Answer

Medicare Advantage plans tend to have coverage for basic cleanings embedded into the plans. The amounts vary by carrier and in some cases require you to stay in network. Some plans do higher amounts for chronic conditions and special needs. It is important to speak to your agent for a complete needs analysis. I do my best to assess the situation, and find the coverage to match needs.

Answered by Mariela Arana on August 11, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AZ & 8 other states

Answered by Mariela Arana Medicare Insurance Agent

Cody Hebden, MBA, CLU, FLMI · Answer

Deciding to switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan should take into account many factors and healthcare needs. I do not recommend moving to a Medicare Advantage just for one type of benefit. Dental benefits and dental coverage within Medicare Advantage plans vary widely and do change from year-to-year. I might recommend you consider purchasing an affordable stand-alone dental plan from a private insurance company to give you the dental benefits you are looking for.

Answered by Cody Hebden, MBA, CLU, FLMI on September 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC & SC

Answered by Cody Hebden, MBA, CLU, FLMI Medicare Insurance Agent

Sandra Bailey · Answer

Medicare Advantage plans include routine checkups & cleaning plus some will include extra benefits.  You must use in network dentist.  Please compare your original plan & services before switching

Michael Ryan · Answer

Quick answer is most likely. Do your research first.. Many Advantage plans have dental coverage. Coverage and benifits will vary.. I would not make dental coverage your primary focus in choosing an Advantage plan.. If one doesn't find what they need for dental care in an Advantage plan there are many stand alone plans that will.

Answered by Michael Ryan on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO & 7 other states

Answered by Michael Ryan Medicare Insurance Agent

LaTosha Turknett · Answer

Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care; therefore, if your Medicare Advantage plan covers cleanings, it will save you money. Keep in mind, that Medicare Advantage is a major medical plan with ancillary benefits, so care must be taken to ensure the plan is a good fit for you before enrolling.

Answered by LaTosha Turknett on June 4, 2026

Broker Licensed in TX, FL, LA, NV, NY & OK

Carolee Turner · Answer

Yes you would. Medicare only covers medically necessary services. A stand alone dental plan can cost money. Be sure when considering a Medicare Advantage that your doctors and specialists are in network. Make sure when considering a MA that there is dental embedded in the plan and that it covers your specific needs, such as cleanings, root canals or dentures.

Answered by Carolee Turner on April 18, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, IL, MI, OH, SC & TN

Answered by Carolee Turner Medicare Insurance Agent

Jay Ferguson · Answer

Yes, you would Original Medicare does not cover routine dental, so all dentals' cleanings are 100% out of pocket whereas most Medicare advantage plans cover cleanings at $0 copay at least once maybe twice a year. Advantage plans do come with a dental allowance as well.

Answered by Jay Ferguson on March 23, 2026

Broker Licensed in TX

Answered by Jay Ferguson Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Bleicher · Answer

Apparently, you may not recall that Medicare DOES cover anything that is considered to be “routine dental”, like    x-rays, cleanings & fluoride treatment. But depending upon when this policy was written, it is imperative that you look in your new updated manual to locate all of the benefits of your policy.      

However, you are also remiss if thinking that dental cleaning should take precedence over so many other health benefits that Original Medicare and a Med. Supplemt. can provide you.           

Plus, you should insist on having an assigned agent to help you or call           1-800-Medicare.

Jim Tretola · Answer

Unless you have a stand alone dental plan, you will absolutely save with coverage from a Medicare advantage plan. Just make sure your Dentist accepts that plan.

Timothy Brown · Answer

Not necessarily. You can purchase a stand alone dental plan that covers cleanings at no charge. There are a number of plans out there. On another note, although many Medicare Advantage plans include dental coverage, Original Medicare will no longer be your primary coverage should you decide to enroll in one.

Answered by Timothy Brown on June 6, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, CT, DE & 15 other states

Answered by Timothy Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

Leslie Kaz · Answer

Here’s the straight answer — maybe, but it depends on what you mean by “save” and what kind of dental care you expect beyond cleanings. Original Medicare does not cover dental; however you could purchase a stand alone plan or look at a Medicare Advantage plan that has dental built in.

Answered by Leslie Kaz on August 13, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AZ & 7 other states

Answered by Leslie Kaz Medicare Insurance Agent

Barbara Barnes, CMIP® · Answer

You might save money at the dentist, if they accept your plan, but end up spending more on your medical needs.

Medicare Advantage plans have copays for most medical services. With Original Medicare you are responsible for 20% of Medicare Assignment after deductible, so if Medicare allows $72 for an office visit, 20% of that would be $14.40, but a Medicare Advantage plan may charge a flat $20 for an office visit copay. Also, Original Medicare allows you to see any doctor that accepts Medicare, while most Medicare Advantage plans require that you see only doctors that participate in their network.


Before you make this change, make sure you understand all of the provisions of the Medicare Advantage plan, and check to be sure the dentist and doctors you want to see will all accept the plan.

Thomas Magnus, RHU · Answer

The philosophy behind insurance is to protect against large, unexpected catastrophic loss. When focusing on one aspect of a Medicare Plan, one must also consider what is MOST IMPORTANT for that plan to do for them when being admitted to the hospital for whatever reason. So... the answer is - probably yes. And another question becomes: What are my potential OVERALL costs via one plan versus another?

Answered by Thomas Magnus, RHU on June 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, NV, OR & WA

Answered by Thomas Magnus, RHU Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Yost · Answer

You possibly could save more. Advantage plans will typically include dental coverage and some of the dental plans are pretty strong. Some advantage plans have a higher max they will pay each year and could definitely be a better option.

Answered by Michael Yost on July 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, AL, AZ & 27 other states

Answered by Michael Yost Medicare Insurance Agent

Frank Woerner · Answer

Most Medicare Advantage plans include a dental benefit. Preventive services like cleanings, exams often are covered. However, some plans may charge a small extra premium for these services. If you're working with an agent, check with them, or the individual carrier. Stand-alone dental insurance plans often provide better coverage. Worth considering.

Answered by Frank Woerner on April 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN & IL

Answered by Frank Woerner Medicare Insurance Agent

Erlynne (Elle) Massie · Answer

Original Medicare does not cover dental cleanings, so yes. Medicare Advantage plans generally cover preventative and comprehensive dental services such as cleanings and exams, as well as certain x-rays. They also cover annual routine vision exams and annual hearing exams, with usually a small co-pay, if at all.

As Medicare Advantage plans have evolved, however, the "big stuff" has been less and less covered throughout the years. In every instance, it's important to review exactly which services are "covered" in any plan, and supplemental dental insurance coverage may be needed in order to have coverage for larger services like crowns, complex fillings, extractions, root canals, bridges & dentures.

Valerie Schurman · Answer

so on most advantage plans cleanings are a $0 for this year   


But next year you never know what the insurance companies will do 


thanks
val

Alan &quot;AL&quot; Minthorn · Answer

Many advantage plans offer dental benefits discounting or including preventative care. Before jumping into a plan for dental, do your home work and make sure your dental office is in network with the plan(s) you're considering. Some carriers offer reimbursement benefits vs embedded network benefits - again, do your homework and see which may be better for your situation all other considerations being equal.

Answered by Alan "AL" Minthorn on June 1, 2026

Broker Licensed in ME, FL, NC & NH

Answered by Alan "AL" Minthorn Medicare Insurance Agent

Cathy Barnett · Answer

Yes, most MAPD plans have free dental cleanings and also provide an allowance for additional dental work if needed.

Paul Dzierzanowski · Answer

Seeing as Original Medicare offers no coverage for dental cleanings, the general answer is yes. But exactly how much you would save depends on the details of the individual Medicare Advantage (MA) plan. Some MA plans offer extensive dental benefits no matter which dentist is seen, whereas some MA plans offer specific benefits, for example, cleanings, for in network dentists only. Please call me directly for more information.

Answered by Paul Dzierzanowski on March 31, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL & GA

Answered by Paul Dzierzanowski Medicare Insurance Agent

Sheila Dow · Answer

Most Medicare Advantage Plans include coverage for Dental Cleanings , with in Network Dentists.  Out of Network Dentists are sometimes covered at the Network rates, and you would pay the difference.

Fred Manas · Answer

Original Medicare, generally does not cover routine dental care, such as: 
dental exams,
cleanings,
fillings,
dentures,
and extractions. 
However, there are limited exceptions where Medicare may cover dental services. 
e.g. 
1.) dental care necessary for a medical condition, such as before or after surgery
2.) dental care provided as part of inpatient hospital care and/or
3.) dental care related to an emergency situation
NOTE:   Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, which are private health insurance plans, often include dental services that traditional Medicare does not. Individuals should do a side-by-side comparison of separate dental insurance policies to supplement their Medicare coverage in order to obtain comprehensive dental care.

Andrew Kramer · Answer

I assume you chose to stay in Original Medicare, versus an Advantage plan for a reason? The extra benefits of Advantage plans are just that, extra, and not a reason to choose an Advantage plan. Are you aware that you would be in a Dr network with an Advantage plan? And if you chose a PPO plan, the co-pays would be quite high, compared to an HMO. In my opinion, unless you can no longer afford your Medicare supplement, get yourself a dental plan. Ask you dentist what they recommend. They are not expensive.

Answered by Andrew Kramer on August 11, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Suzanne Lamperti · Answer

Original Medicare doesn't cover dental.  Not all Medicare Advantage plans cover dental, either. You need to check out all available plans in your area.

Jaye Maxx Alexander II · Answer

If you get a MAPD or MA plan, don't get it just for the dental benefits. You must look at the ability to have a plan that will include your PCP and your hospital of choice . You can keep the original Medicare Part A and Part B with a separate dental plan that will cover all your needs .

Answered by Jaye Maxx Alexander II on April 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC, AK, AL & 47 other states

Answered by Jaye Maxx Alexander II Medicare Insurance Agent

Mel Stevens · Answer

Original Medicare does not offer any dental benefits.  Absolubtely you would save a lot of money if you switched to Medicare Advantage.

Rich Baker · Answer

Most likely there’s a plan in your area that has some level of dental coverage. Some things to keep in mind:
- some areas do not have any plans with dental coverage, and the amount of coverage and copays will differ significantly, so you’ll need to so some comparison shopping (of course an agent will help with that, but you can also go to Medicare.gov)
- we’ve had a few tough years, cost-wise, so many plans are pulling back on the ancillary coverage (Dental Vision and Hearing, or DVH). I personally don’t see that changing going into 2027. Still, many plans will cover cleanings even if they don’t provide comprehensive coeverage.
- You will need a valid election period to enroll in a MA plan. That usually means AEP from October 15-Dec 7 unless a special election period applies. Again, an agent can walk through some situations to see if that’s the case.
- You’ve (hopefully) got a Prescription Drug plan, and may be paying for it. If so, you may save money with an MAPD because it replaces the standalone drug plan and many have no premium. It depends on your service area as to what is available.
- if you go with an MAPD, your doctor selection will be limited to the plan’s network, or, if it’s a PPO, you’ll pay higher copays for doctors out of network.
- You can also pick up dental coverage separately and not change your medical coverage. Most agents have several options available for stand-alone dental coverage.
- if all you have is OM + a PD plan, you have some financial exposure since medicare has no out of pocket maximum, so I really do recommend either a Medigap plan or Medicare Advantage to help mitigate that risk. 

I hope this helps!!

Brent Mowery · Answer

I would not recommend leaving Original Medicare and switching to Medicare Advantage to save on dental cleanings. Ancillary benefits such as dental discounts, hearing aid discounts, gym memberships, etc. will probably be reduced in 2026 and beyond, based on current trends. There are many ways to save on dental expenditures such as dental insurance or dental discount programs. Ask your dentist how you can save on these cleanings.

Answered by Brent Mowery on September 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK, CO, NC & TX

Answered by Brent Mowery Medicare Insurance Agent

Toni Chavez · Answer

Thanks for your question!

Medicare advantage plans usually have comprehensive dental, which includes your cleanings and can be with zero copay. 

Medicare advantage plans have lots of benefits to include dental vision, hearing and over-the-counter benefits.

I recommend finding a license broker. We are no cost to beneficiaries and can look at all plan options and compare what’s available in your county and make the recommendation based on your needs.. 

Hope this answers your question!

Stay happy and healthy

Glenn Alterman · Answer

Do not switch for free dental as u will give up the best coverage ad your supplement allows you to go anywhere without referrals 

I can sign up for unlimited dental with vision for $56 pm

William Scott · Answer

Yes! Depending on the Medicare Advantage plan you qualify for. There are several plans that offer dental cleaning, flouride and exams at no cost.

James Wareheim · Answer

Original Medicare does not have dental benefits for cleaning. Most Medicare Advantage plans do have dental benefits. They are basic so changing just for dental benefits may not be the best plan. You should sit down with your agent to discuss your options, such as a stand along dental plan to get the most in dental benefits.

Answered by James Wareheim on June 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in FL, GA, NC, NV & SC

Answered by James Wareheim Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Murphy · Answer

Original Medicare doesn't offer dental at all.  If you're currently on a Medigap plan you can pick up a separate dental plan at any time.  It is also true that a lot of Medicare Advantage plans offer dental plans as part of the package.  Some only offer preventative dental.  It really comes down to your specific needs medically and orally.  
I recommend you speak to a local Medicare insurance agent and have him help you determine what works best for your situation.

Tony Merwin · Answer

Considering Original Medicare doesn't offer routine dental coverage, in short, yes. But while you might get improved detal coverage moving to a Medicare Advantage plan there are tradeoffs that might increase other costs and / or reduce overall health benefits. If it were me, I would simply loook to add a low cost stand-alone dental plan.

Answered by Tony Merwin on June 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AR & 29 other states

Answered by Tony Merwin Medicare Insurance Agent

Al Saponar · Answer

Original Medicare does not cover dental, unless you have a separate dental plan.

many Medicare Advantage plans include dental. most do include preventive dental.

Kim Mitchell-Hargis · Answer

Original Medicare does NOT cover any Dental.  No cleanings, no x-rays... NO dental.
Most Medicare Advantage plans cover preventive dental. 

**Original Medicare has no extra benefits built in.  The Medicare Advantage plans, for the most part, have Dental, Vision and Hearing benefits.

William Wheatley · Answer

As a Agent for Wheatley Insurance a USABG Signature Independent Agency I get asked this question often in the market I cover Delaware, Maryland, New York, Ohuo, Virginia. And because of CMS regulations I must qualify my answer as generic Educational information only. I therefore cant mention specific carrier plans I represent. So with that said... Yes, many Medicare Advantage plans are available that include Dental. It is important that you evaluate your dental needs versus what is included with Medicare Advantage plans, or Supplement Dental plans options as well, to meet your specific needs. Many Medicare Advantage plans cover preventive care. Some Medicare Advantage plans have more comprehensive plans. But be sure to check your specific needs vs. Cost and Money Out of Pocket for more extensive coverage. Because often you will have a deductible, co pay, and even some cost sharing depending on plan chosen. But there are plans that provide dentures, caps, root canal, ... etc! Very few include things like Implants... Again I can't name specific plans here but hope this helps! Thanks for your question for all your Health and Life Insurance Needs providing Peace of Mind Protection.

Answered by William Wheatley on October 20, 2025

Agent Licensed in MD

Answered by William Wheatley Medicare Insurance Agent

Erica Huffstetler · Answer

Original and Medigap policies do not cover Dental Benefits. You can add a standalone Dental policy on top of your Original Medicare. You don't have to make the switch if you are happy with what you have.

Answered by Erica Huffstetler on October 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ, FL, OH, SC & TX

Answered by Erica Huffstetler Medicare Insurance Agent

Velvet Ohlen · Answer

Original Medicare do not include dental coverage. You will need a Medicare Advantage plan or a standalone dental plan, for the dental coverage you need.

Tanisha Coffey · Answer

Many Medicare Advantage plans do include dental related services as part of the plan, which Original Medicare does not. So, while you may save specifically on the dental cleanings, you may or may not save money overall. And, if you do save money, there will be some tradeoffs if you opt to switch. As such, it'd be a good idea for you to compare Medicare Advantage plans in your area with your current Original Medicare coverages thoroughly to see which is best for you. A Medicare broker can assist you with that if you need assistance.

Answered by Tanisha Coffey on March 2, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL, CA, GA & MD, SC, TX & VA

Answered by Tanisha Coffey Medicare Insurance Agent

Robert Moore · Answer

Depending upon the carrier and the Medicare Advantage plan, you can save money.  However, I may recommend that you choose a stand alone dental plan for yourself if your current situation calls for it.

Kevin Johnson · Answer

Yes, you would likely save more on routine dental cleanings by switching to a Medicare Advantage plan, as Original Medicare does not cover most dental services. Many Medicare Advantage plans offer coverage for preventive services like cleanings, exams, and X-rays, sometimes with a $0 copay, while Original Medicare does not. However, it is crucial to compare the specific details of different plans, as benefits and costs vary, and some plans may have additional premiums or limitations

Answered by Kevin Johnson on October 17, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, NM, OH & SC

Answered by Kevin Johnson Medicare Insurance Agent

Babs Atwell · Answer

It depends on other types of coverage you may have. If you do not have a Medicare Supplement to work with your Original Medicare, and you do not have a stand alone dental plan, then the short answer would be Yes. I recommend finding a local agent/broker to sit down with and discuss your current coverages specifically.

Answered by Babs Atwell on May 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, IN, KY, MI & TX

Answered by Babs Atwell Medicare Insurance Agent

Paul Mercier · Answer

Medicare does not coverot dental work. You would need to get either and advantage plan with some type of dental plan or a stand alone dental plan.

Gregory Brown · Answer

Yes original Medicare does not offer dental, but with a Medicare advantage plan depending on the carrier your cleanings would be free.

Mitchell Nunn · Answer

Always compare the options in front of you. I would look at a standalone dental plan vs a Medicare Advantage plan and see which one makes the most sense in your specific situation.

Mindy Kay · Answer

Before switching solely for dental, evaluate the entire plan (medical costs, drug coverage, networks, and maximum out-of-pocket). Sometimes a plan with dental savings can introduce higher medical expenses elsewhere.

Answered by Mindy Kay on February 3, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Mindy Kay Medicare Insurance Agent

Darko Bozic · Answer

Original Medicare does not cover dental cleanings. Most advantage plans do. You could add a stand-alone dental plan to your original Medicare.

Robert Vitale · Answer

Yes, switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan could potentially save you money on dental cleanings, especially if the plan offers supplemental dental benefits. Loss of Coverage is a Qualifying Life Event: Losing health coverage through your employer is a qualifying life event that triggers a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to enroll in a new health plan outside of the regular Open Enrollment period.

Answered by Robert Vitale on May 21, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL & OH

Answered by Robert Vitale Medicare Insurance Agent

Robin Earley · Answer

Original Medicare does not cover dental care. Although, You can buy your own Stand Alone dental policy to add for dental coverage. Many Medicare Advantage plans do offer dental as well as vision and hearing coverage. HMO plans usually have larger benefits than a PPO. It’s important to research plan options and make a decision based on your personal health care needs along with the best dental benefits available!

Answered by Robin Earley on August 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL

Answered by Robin Earley Medicare Insurance Agent

Sterling Warmack · Answer

Many adva names pla s provide cleanings at no cost as what is considered a preventative dental service.  

Often other dental services are covered at a percentage , although some other plans provide a monetary allotment to go towards Advanced Dental Care.

 Most advanced plans do exclude some services and require them to be paid for out-of-pocket but the exceptions are few.

Anthony Scott · Answer

The only way to know which plan would cost you less out of pocket for dental would be to meet with a Medicare broker that has access to plans in your county so they can do a comprehensive comparison between the available MAPD plans, your current dental plan, and other standalone dental plans available to you.

Answered by Anthony Scott on July 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA

Answered by Anthony Scott Medicare Insurance Agent

Angela Olson · Answer

On the dental cleanings themselves, absolutely, but it could cost you way more than that on medical expenses. Find a good broker to walk you through the impacts.

Toni Johnson · Answer

Check to see if your employer provides dental with your major medical plan. If they do not, you may purchase a 'stand alone' dental plan, You do not have to purchase a Medicare Advantage Plan just to cover your dental needs.

Answered by Toni Johnson on May 14, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, IN, MO & 5 other states

Answered by Toni Johnson Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve Dunn · Answer

The original medicare (parts A and B) don not cover routine dential cleanings. Medicare poart C usually covers preventiative services like cleanings (but not all part C plans are the same). Medicare Advantage (part D) will save you provided the dentist is in network.

Answered by Steve Dunn on June 3, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA

Answered by Steve Dunn Medicare Insurance Agent

Calinda Young · Answer

Because Original Medicare does not cover dental cleanings, it is important see if you might save money on your dental cleanings by comparing the benefit and cost of their stand alone dental plan with the benefits included with the Medicare Advantage plan. Some Medicare Advantage plans also offer a 'buy-up' dental program to increase the yearly dental benefit for members with a monthly premium.

Answered by Calinda Young on October 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in MI, IN, KY & NC, TN, TX & VA

Answered by Calinda Young Medicare Insurance Agent

Chelsea Reeves · Answer

This is a great question, one without an easy answer. Without knowing how you use Medicare in its entirety or your daily life (whether you travel or not) it’s hard to say if an advantage plan is best suited for you over a supplemental plan. Take this answer with a grain of salt, yes. However, you may be spending more elsewhere, a lot more.

Answered by Chelsea Reeves on March 24, 2026

Agent Licensed in GA & MS

Answered by Chelsea Reeves Medicare Insurance Agent

Jeanne LaChance · Answer

Original Medicare does not include dental coverage. Many Medicare Advantage Plans include dental coverage with cleanings. A broker can review your overall health plan needs and show you options that include dental coverage.

Answered by Jeanne LaChance on June 2, 2025

Broker Licensed in RI, CT, MA & NJ

Answered by Jeanne LaChance Medicare Insurance Agent

Theresa Waltersdorff · Answer

Although you would save on your biannual cleanings, you would need to start paying copays for some of your care. There are many things to consider before switching plans.

I have Original Medicare, and I'm wondering if I'd save more on my dental cleanings if I switched to a Medicare Advantage plan instead.

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I have Original Medicare, and I'm wondering if I'd save more on my dental cleanings if I switched to a Medicare Advantage plan instead.

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

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Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website