Teeth, eyes and ears matter more as we age, so it surprises many people that Original Medicare covers so little routine care for them. Here is what is and is not covered, and where you can find help with the rest.
Dental care
Original Medicare does not cover most routine dental care, including:
- Cleanings and checkups.
- Fillings and extractions.
- Dentures, bridges and implants.
Medicare can cover dental services that are closely tied to other covered medical treatment. Examples include a dental exam before a kidney transplant or heart valve replacement, and some dental care related to treatment for head and neck cancer. Medicare Part A may also cover some dental services you get while you are in the hospital.
Vision care
Original Medicare does not cover routine eye exams for glasses or contacts, or the glasses themselves. It does cover:
- A yearly eye exam for diabetic retinopathy if you have diabetes.
- Glaucoma tests once every 12 months if you are at high risk, for example if you have diabetes or a family history of glaucoma.
- Tests and treatment for age-related macular degeneration.
- Cataract surgery, plus one pair of eyeglasses or one set of contact lenses after surgery that implants an intraocular lens.
Your Part B deductible and 20% coinsurance generally apply.
Hearing care
Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids or exams to fit them. It does cover diagnostic hearing and balance exams when your doctor orders them to see whether you need medical treatment. You can also see an audiologist without a doctor's order once every 12 months for certain hearing problems.
Coverage through Medicare Advantage
Many Medicare Advantage plans include some dental, vision and hearing benefits. Before relying on them, check:
- The yearly dollar limit, for example on dental work.
- Whether you must use specific dentists, eye doctors or hearing aid suppliers.
- Waiting periods and what share you pay for major work such as crowns or dentures.
These extras can change from year to year, so review them during open enrollment.
Other ways to lower costs
- Separate dental, vision or hearing insurance or discount plans. Compare premiums against what you would actually save.
- Dental schools, where students treat patients under supervision, often at lower cost.
- Community health centers, which charge fees based on income.
- Medicaid, which covers some dental care for adults in many states.
- Veterans benefits, which may include hearing aids and eyeglasses for eligible veterans.
- Service groups such as local Lions Clubs, which sometimes help with eyeglasses and hearing aids.
Do not skip care
Untreated dental problems, vision loss and hearing loss can affect your nutrition, your safety and your connection with others. If cost is a barrier, ask your providers about payment plans and lower-cost options. Our guides to dental health, eye health and hearing checks explain what to watch for.
