Does Medicare Cover Dental Implants?

Dental implants are one of the most effective and long-lasting ways to replace missing teeth. They look and function like natural teeth, help preserve jawbone density, and can last a lifetime with proper care. However, they are also one of the most expensive dental procedures, with a single implant costing $3,000 to $6,000 and full mouth implants running $20,000 to $50,000 or more.

For seniors on Medicare, the question of whether Medicare helps pay for implants is critical. As we discuss in our guide on Medicare and dental coverage, Original Medicare excludes most dental services. This article examines the specific rules around dental implants, the narrow exceptions where Medicare may help, and how to find coverage or reduce costs.

Original Medicare and Dental Implants

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover dental implants. The Medicare statute specifically excludes services related to the replacement of teeth, and dental implants fall squarely within this exclusion. This applies whether you need a single implant, multiple implants, or full arch replacement.

This exclusion has been in place since Medicare was created in 1965. Despite ongoing discussions in Congress about adding dental benefits to Medicare, no changes have been enacted as of 2026. Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans also do not cover dental implants, because they only help pay for costs that Original Medicare already covers.

Exceptions: When Medicare May Cover Implant-Related Services

While Medicare does not cover dental implants for tooth replacement, there are narrow medical situations where Medicare Part A may cover procedures that involve the jaw or oral structures. These exceptions do not cover the implant itself for the purpose of replacing a tooth, but they may cover related services when dental work is medically necessary as part of a larger covered procedure.

• Jaw reconstruction after cancer treatment: If you have had cancer affecting the jaw or oral cavity and need reconstructive surgery, Medicare Part A may cover the hospital stay and surgical procedure. In some cases, this reconstruction may include implants as part of restoring jaw function, though coverage for the implant component is determined on a case-by-case basis.
• Jaw fracture or trauma: If you suffer a jaw injury that requires surgical repair during an inpatient hospital stay, Medicare Part A may cover the surgery. Any implant-related components would need to be deemed medically necessary and integral to the repair, not elective tooth replacement.
• Radiation treatment to the jaw: Radiation therapy for head and neck cancers can damage the jaw and surrounding tissues. Medicare may cover dental extractions or other procedures needed before radiation begins, as they are part of the cancer treatment. However, implants placed after radiation for tooth replacement are typically not covered.

These exceptions are rare and apply only to specific medical situations. In practice, very few Medicare beneficiaries receive implant-related coverage through Original Medicare. If you believe your situation may qualify, discuss it with your doctor and contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE to ask about coverage.

Medicare Advantage Plans That Cover Dental Implants

Some Medicare Advantage plans with comprehensive dental benefits do cover dental implants. Not all Medicare Advantage plans include this coverage, so it is important to check the specifics. For a more detailed comparison, see our guide to the best dental insurance for implants.

Here is what to look for in a Medicare Advantage plan if implants are important to you:

• Comprehensive dental benefit: Look for plans that specifically list implants as a covered service. Plans with preventive-only dental will not cover implants.
• Annual maximum: Medicare Advantage dental maximums typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 per year. Since a single implant can cost $3,000 to $6,000, even with 50 percent coverage, the annual maximum may only cover a portion of the cost.
• Coinsurance rate: Plans that cover implants typically classify them as a major service and cover them at 50 percent. You would be responsible for the remaining 50 percent plus any costs above the annual maximum.
• Network dentists: Make sure there are dentists or oral surgeons in the plan's network who perform implant procedures. Not every in-network general dentist does implant work.

Standalone Dental Insurance for Implants

If you want to stay with Original Medicare, you can purchase a standalone dental insurance plan that covers implants. Coverage for implants varies significantly between plans, so shop carefully.

Key factors to consider when choosing a standalone plan for implants:

• Implant coverage: Confirm that the plan explicitly lists dental implants as a covered benefit. Some plans exclude implants entirely and only cover alternatives like bridges or dentures.
• Waiting period: Most standalone dental plans classify implants as a major service with a waiting period of 12 months or longer. You must be enrolled and paying premiums for the full waiting period before coverage kicks in.
• Annual maximum: Standalone plans typically cap payouts at $1,000 to $2,000 per year. With implants costing $3,000 to $6,000, the plan will only cover a portion of the total cost even at the 50 percent coinsurance level.
• Strategic timing: Some people plan implant procedures across two plan years to use two annual maximums. If your plan year resets in January, you might get the implant post placed in December and the crown attached in January.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Understanding the full cost breakdown helps you plan financially. For a complete cost analysis, see our article on dental implant costs with and without insurance. Here is a general overview:

• Single tooth implant: $3,000 to $6,000. This includes the titanium post ($1,000 to $3,000), the abutment ($300 to $500), and the crown ($1,000 to $3,000).
• Implant-supported bridge: $5,000 to $16,000 for a bridge supported by two or more implants, replacing three or more teeth.
• All-on-4 full arch replacement: $15,000 to $30,000 per arch. This procedure uses four implants to support a full set of prosthetic teeth.
• Full mouth implants: $20,000 to $50,000 or more for both arches, depending on the number of implants and type of prosthetic.

Additional costs may include bone grafting ($200 to $3,000 per graft), CT scans ($200 to $500), anesthesia, and follow-up visits. The total cost can vary substantially based on your provider, geographic location, and the complexity of your case.

Alternatives to Dental Implants

If dental implants are not affordable or not appropriate for your situation, there are other options for replacing missing teeth:

• Dental bridges: A bridge uses adjacent teeth as anchors to hold a prosthetic tooth in place. Cost is typically $2,000 to $5,000 for a traditional three-unit bridge. Bridges are more widely covered by dental insurance than implants.
• Full dentures: Removable dentures that replace all teeth in an arch cost $1,000 to $5,000. They are the least expensive option but may be less comfortable and stable than implants.
• Partial dentures: Removable prosthetics that replace some missing teeth, costing $700 to $2,500. They clip onto remaining natural teeth for support.
• Mini implants: Smaller and less invasive than standard implants, mini implants cost $500 to $1,500 per implant. They are often used to stabilize dentures rather than replace individual teeth.

Ways to Reduce the Cost of Dental Implants

Even without Medicare coverage, there are strategies that can help make dental implants more affordable:

• Dental schools: Dental schools with implant programs often offer procedures at 30 to 50 percent less than private practice rates. Work is performed by supervised students or residents.
• Dental discount plans: These membership plans offer 15 to 60 percent discounts on dental procedures at participating providers. With no annual maximum or waiting period, they can save meaningful amounts on expensive procedures like implants.
• Payment plans: Many dental offices offer in-house payment plans or work with third-party financing companies. Some offer 0 percent interest financing for 12 to 24 months, allowing you to spread the cost over time.
• Get multiple quotes: Implant costs vary significantly between providers and geographic areas. Getting quotes from two or three dentists or oral surgeons can help you find a fair price.
• Spread treatment across plan years: If you have dental insurance, scheduling different phases of implant treatment in different plan years lets you use two annual maximums, potentially doubling your insurance benefit.

The Bottom Line

Original Medicare does not cover dental implants except in rare medical situations involving jaw reconstruction or cancer treatment. For most seniors who want implants, the path to coverage runs through Medicare Advantage plans with comprehensive dental benefits or standalone dental insurance plans that include implant coverage.

Even with coverage, the high cost of implants means you will likely have significant out-of-pocket expenses. Annual maximums on dental plans typically cap at $1,000 to $3,000, while a single implant can cost $3,000 to $6,000. Plan your finances carefully, explore alternatives, and consider strategies like dental schools, discount plans, and spreading treatment across plan years to reduce your costs.

Plans and coverage vary by location. This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute individual advice. Contact a licensed insurance agent or visit Medicare.gov to explore the specific plans available to you.