Affording dental work can be tough if youre an older American on Medicare.
Thats because Original Medicare which covers a majority of beneficiaries doesnt include routine dental care.
Here are seven ways to get free or reduced dental care.
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Our team has compiled alist of creative waysyou can fatten your bank account this week.
This is a long list, so dont get overwhelmed.
Go ahead and start now, but be sure to bookmark this post so you could easily return later.
Well keep it updated as offers changes or expire.
Thats a lot of money, especially if youre on a fixed income.
Here are a few tips and tricks to get free dental work and save big on oral health.
Did you know?
When we did a quick search, Nevada and Wisconsin werent accepting new applications.
Many operate on a sliding scale system while others offer flexible payment plans.
Wait lists can be long, so its important to reach out to your local clinic early.
Dental Schools
Some dental schools offer low-cost cleanings and other routine care to members of the community.
you’re free to search for dental schools and programs in your area by visiting theAmerican Dental Associationwebsite.
Theres no guarantee that a dental program in your area currently offers free or reduced dental care.
Youll need to contact each program individually to see whats available.
When you call, verify to ask about any fees up front.
Just type your zip code intothis search toolto get started.
Ask if it’s possible for you to receive a discount for referring a friend.
Heres how it works.
But lets be clear: Dental discount plans arent free.
it’s possible for you to visitDentalPlansto find a plan in your area.
Shop Around
Dentists can charge widely different prices for the same exact procedure.
When its coming out of your pocket, it pays to shop around.
you’re able to find average prices in your area by usingFAIR Health, a national nonprofit organization.
Armed with knowledge, call around to different dentist offices for quotes.
Ask about senior discounts.
it’s possible for you to also look for discounted dental care on sites likeGroupon.
One office even offered $500 toward dental implants for just $50!
Does Medicare Cover Dental Care?
Original Medicare doesnt provide coverage for routine dental, vision or hearing benefits.
Original Medicare will only cover dental work if its deemed medically necessary, i.e.
you were hospitalized after a traumatic injury that also affected your jaw, teeth or mouth.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are administered by private insurance companies.
It can vary widely from plan to plan.
it’s possible for you to expect an annual deductible of $50 to $100 with these policies.
Medicare usually pays as your primary insurance when youre dual enrolled.
But its not a guarantee.
Even if your state Medicaid program includes dental, it may not pay out much.
According to Medicaids national website, States have flexibility to determine what dental benefits are provided …
There are no minimum requirements for adult dental coverage.
To find the Medicaid office contact information for your state,click here.
Rachel Christian is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance and a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
She focuses on investing, retirement, taxes and life insurance.
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