Does Medicare Cover Dentures?

Dentures are one of the most common ways to replace missing teeth, and millions of older Americans rely on them for eating, speaking, and quality of life. Full dentures replace all teeth in an arch, while partial dentures fill in gaps when some natural teeth remain. For seniors on Medicare, the cost of dentures is a significant concern, because Original Medicare does not cover them.

This article explains why Medicare excludes dentures, the rare exceptions that exist, how to get denture coverage through other options, and what dentures typically cost. For broader context on Medicare and dental care, see our guide on whether Medicare covers dental services.

Original Medicare Does Not Cover Dentures

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) specifically excludes dentures and dental plates. The Medicare statute bars coverage for services related to the replacement of teeth, and dentures fall directly under this exclusion. This applies to all types of dentures:

• Full (complete) dentures for the upper arch, lower arch, or both
• Partial dentures that replace some missing teeth
• Immediate dentures placed right after tooth extraction
• Implant-supported dentures (also called overdentures)
• Denture repairs, relines, and adjustments

Medicare also does not cover the tooth extractions that are typically needed before dentures can be made. Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans do not cover dentures either, because they only supplement costs for services that Original Medicare already covers.

The Narrow Exception: Inpatient Hospital Procedures

There is one very limited exception to Medicare's dental exclusion. Medicare Part A may cover dental services, including potentially related prosthetics, when they are medically necessary as part of a covered inpatient hospital stay. This might apply in situations such as:

• Jaw reconstruction after cancer: If cancer treatment requires removal of part of the jaw, Medicare may cover the reconstructive surgery and associated prosthetics needed to restore function.
• Severe jaw trauma: If an accident causes jaw damage requiring inpatient surgery, Medicare Part A may cover the procedure and any related dental prosthetics needed as part of the repair.

These situations are extremely rare. They do not apply to seniors who simply need dentures because of age-related tooth loss, gum disease, or decay. In nearly all cases, seniors must find denture coverage outside of Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage Plans That Cover Dentures

Many Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits that cover dentures. These plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare and cover everything Original Medicare covers, plus additional benefits. For a detailed comparison of plans, see our guide to the best dental insurance for dentures.

When evaluating Medicare Advantage plans for denture coverage, look for:

• Comprehensive dental benefit: Plans with only preventive dental coverage will not cover dentures. Look for plans that list dentures and dental prosthetics as covered services.
• Coverage level: Dentures are typically classified as a major service. Plans that cover them usually pay 50 percent of the cost, with you responsible for the other 50 percent.
• Annual maximum: Most plans cap dental benefits at $1,000 to $3,000 per year. For basic dentures costing $1,000 to $3,000, this may cover a meaningful portion. For premium dentures costing $4,000 to $5,000, the annual maximum will leave a larger out-of-pocket balance.
• Extraction coverage: Dentures often require tooth extractions first. Make sure the plan covers extractions as well, and understand how that cost applies to the annual maximum.

Standalone Dental Plans for Dentures

If you want to stay with Original Medicare, you can purchase a standalone dental insurance plan that covers dentures. These plans are sold by private companies and are not connected to Medicare.

Important considerations for standalone dental plans and dentures:

• Waiting periods: Dentures are classified as a major service with typical waiting periods of 6 to 12 months. You must pay premiums during the entire waiting period before coverage begins.
• Coverage percentage: Most plans cover dentures at 50 percent coinsurance after you meet the annual deductible.
• Annual maximum: Standalone plans usually cap payouts at $1,000 to $2,000 per year. Factor this into your cost calculation.
• Premiums: Standalone dental plans typically cost $20 to $60 per month. Over a 12-month waiting period, that is $240 to $720 in premiums before denture coverage even starts.

Run the numbers before enrolling. If a plan charges $40 per month and has a 12-month waiting period, you will have paid $480 in premiums before the denture benefit begins. If the plan then covers 50 percent of a $3,000 denture up to a $1,500 annual maximum, the plan pays $1,500 and you pay $1,500 plus the $480 in premiums already spent. Compare this to the cost of paying out of pocket or using a dental discount plan.

How Much Do Dentures Cost?

Denture costs vary widely depending on the type, materials, and level of customization. For a complete cost breakdown, see our article on denture costs with and without insurance. Here is a general overview:

Full (Complete) Dentures

• Basic economy dentures: $600 to $1,000 per arch. These use standard materials and minimal customization.
• Mid-range dentures: $1,000 to $3,000 per arch. Better materials, more natural appearance, and improved fit.
• Premium dentures: $2,000 to $5,000 per arch. High-quality materials, custom fitting, most natural appearance.

Partial Dentures

• Acrylic partial dentures: $700 to $1,500. Lightweight and affordable, but less durable.
• Metal framework partial dentures: $1,500 to $2,500. More durable and thinner than acrylic, with metal clasps that attach to natural teeth.
• Flexible partial dentures: $900 to $2,000. Made from flexible nylon-based material, comfortable and aesthetic, but may not last as long as metal frameworks.

Implant-Supported Dentures

• Implant-supported overdentures: $15,000 to $30,000 per arch. These snap onto two to four implants placed in the jawbone, providing a more secure fit than traditional dentures.

Additional costs may include tooth extractions ($150 to $400 per tooth), bone grafting if needed ($200 to $3,000), and follow-up adjustments ($50 to $200 per visit). Factor these into your total budget.

Other Ways to Get Affordable Dentures

If you cannot get denture coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan or standalone dental insurance, or if the coverage is not sufficient, here are other ways to reduce costs:

• Dental discount plans: These membership programs offer 15 to 60 percent discounts at participating dentists. With no waiting period and no annual maximum, they can be useful for expensive procedures like dentures. Annual membership fees typically run $80 to $200.
• Dental schools: Dental schools with prosthodontic programs offer dentures at reduced prices. Work is performed by supervised students under faculty guidance. Savings of 30 to 50 percent are common.
• Community health centers: Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer dental services on a sliding fee scale based on income. Some centers provide denture services. Find a center through HRSA.gov.
• State Medicaid programs: If you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, your state Medicaid program may cover dentures. Coverage varies by state. Contact your state Medicaid office for details.
• Payment plans and financing: Many dental offices offer payment plans for dentures. Third-party financing options may include 0 percent interest for an introductory period, allowing you to spread the cost over 12 to 24 months.

Choosing Between Full Dentures, Partial Dentures, and Implant-Supported Dentures

The right type of denture depends on your dental health, jawbone condition, lifestyle, and budget. Here is a quick comparison:

• Full dentures: Best when all teeth need to be replaced in an arch. Most affordable option at $1,000 to $5,000. Removable and require daily cleaning. May shift during eating or speaking.
• Partial dentures: Best when some natural teeth remain. Cost $700 to $2,500. Clip onto existing teeth for support. Help maintain alignment of remaining teeth.
• Implant-supported dentures: Best for a secure, stable fit. Cost $15,000 to $30,000 per arch. Snap onto implants in the jawbone. Prevent bone loss and feel more like natural teeth. Require adequate bone density and surgical placement.

Your dentist can help you determine which type is most appropriate based on your oral health, jawbone condition, and overall health. If cost is the primary concern, traditional full or partial dentures are the most accessible option.

The Bottom Line

Original Medicare does not cover dentures, with only extremely rare exceptions for inpatient hospital procedures involving jaw reconstruction. For seniors who need dentures, the main paths to coverage are Medicare Advantage plans with comprehensive dental benefits and standalone dental insurance plans.

Full dentures typically cost $1,000 to $5,000, partial dentures $700 to $2,500, and implant-supported dentures $15,000 to $30,000 per arch. Even with insurance coverage, you will likely have out-of-pocket costs due to annual maximums and coinsurance. Explore dental discount plans, dental schools, community health centers, and state Medicaid programs as additional ways to reduce 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.