The end of the year means it’s open enrollment time. For many residents of Washington State exploring healthcare options through Medicare, it's a critical time to secure comprehensive coverage for their medical needs. While you’re looking into your medical coverage options, make sure you don’t overlook dental coverage.
Delta Dental of Washington offers dental plans that you can enroll in at any time, which are perfect for those seeking to supplement their Medicare coverage.
As you consider your healthcare options, round out your coverage with dental plans from Delta Dental of Washington. Use this guide to explore the benefits of adding affordable dental benefits coverage to your existing healthcare plan during open enrollment and find out which plans are right for you – whether you’re looking to add to your Medicare coverage or looking to enroll during open enrollment.
Why dental coverage matters:
- Oral health is vital: Your dental health impacts more than just your smile; it plays a significant role in your overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to various systemic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and even pregnancy complications.
- Preventive care is key: Dental problems are often preventable with routine check-ups and cleanings. Neglecting your oral health can lead to costly treatments down the road.
- Improved quality of life: Dental issues like tooth pain and gum disease can significantly impact your daily life. Adequate dental coverage ensures you can address these issues promptly, enhancing your quality of life.
- Large network of dentists: Our provider network is the largest in the state so there is a good chance that you can find an experienced and professional dental provider near you.
- Affordability: We designed our coverage with you in mind so we offer a variety of different plans for any type of budget and oral health situation.
- Comprehensive coverage: Our plans cover a wide array of dental services and keep preventive care at little to no cost to you.
- Comprehensive coverage: Medicare Advantage plans combine coverage for hospital care (Part A), medical services (Part B), and, often, additional benefits such as dental, vision, and prescription drugs. This makes them an all-in-one solution for many beneficiaries who want a broader range of coverage than what Original Medicare offers.
- Dental coverage in Medicare Advantage Plans: While Original Medicare doesn’t cover most routine dental services, many Medicare Advantage plans do. Dental benefits vary but may include:
- Preventive services like cleanings, X-rays, and exams.
- Basic procedures such as fillings and simple extractions.
- Major procedures including root canals, crowns, and dentures.
- Network of providers: Many Medicare Advantage plans use a network of dentists. This means you’ll need to see a dentist within the plan’s network to get the full benefits of your coverage. Some plans may also offer out-of-network options, though the costs may be higher.
- Cost structure: Like other health insurance plans, Medicare Advantage plans typically include monthly premiums, deductibles, and copayments. The cost for dental coverage will depend on the specific plan you choose and the services you need. Keep in mind that some plans may offer no-cost preventive care, which can help you save in the long run.
- Customized options: Medicare Advantage plans often allow you to choose the level of dental coverage you want. For example, some plans might focus more on preventive care, while others may offer more comprehensive coverage for major dental procedures. This flexibility helps ensure that the plan aligns with your personal health and financial needs.
- Delta Dental - Premium Plan: Includes three periodontal maintenance cleanings and a lifetime plan deductible.
- Delta Dental - Ascent Plan: Offers no waiting period, with coverage increasing over the first two years.
- Delta Dental - Enhanced Plan: Covers preventive care procedures and 50% of most major procedures.
- Delta Dental - Clear Plan: Features no waiting period and fixed out-of-pocket costs to minimize surprises.
Delta Dental of Washington: a dental coverage solution for everyone
Delta Dental of Washington is a trusted not-for-profit provider of dental benefits in the state, offering a wide range of affordable plans designed to fit your needs and budget. Here is how we meet the needs of the largest member network in the state:
Dental coverage for Medicare beneficiaries
For those on Medicare, adding dental coverage during open enrollment can be a wise decision. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not include routine dental care. However, you can still find Medicare coverage for Dental benefits through Medicare Advantage Plans.
Many Medicare Advantage plans offer dental coverage as part of their benefits package. During open enrollment, consider enrolling in one of Delta Dental of Washington’s recommended plans for retirees so that you have more extensive dental coverage should you need it.
What are Medicare Advantage Plans?
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, are an alternative way to receive your Medicare benefits. These plans are offered by private benefit provider companies that are approved by Medicare and bundle all your healthcare services into one plan.
How do Medicare Advantage Plans work?
Delta Dental of Washington's recommended plans for retirees on Medicare
We offer four plans designed to supplement your Medicare coverage and meet your specific dental needs:
Each of these plans can provide the dental coverage you need to complement your Medicare dental plan. You can explore detailed benefits and choose the plan that best fits your healthcare needs.
What dental services are covered by Medicare?
While Original Medicare typically does not cover routine dental services, some Medicare Advantage plans do. Coverage varies by plan but can include preventive care like cleanings, exams, and X-rays, as well as more advanced services such as fillings, crowns, and dentures. Be sure to review your options during open enrollment to find a plan that covers the dental services most important to you.
As you navigate open enrollment in 2024, remember that comprehensive healthcare goes beyond just medical coverage. Dental health plays a vital role in your overall well-being. Delta Dental of Washington offers dental plans for retirees on Medicare to help maintain your oral health. Explore your options today and make sure your smile stays as healthy as the rest of you.
