How do you choose a dental provider with Medicare?

Medicare does not cover general dental services, as stated by the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services. Some situations may be covered due to other health concerns, such as teeth removal to prepare for neoplastic disease in the jaw, checkups prior to kidney or heart valve transplants and reconstructive oral procedures after an accident or medical event. The steps listed here are for finding a dentist in the allowable situations.

1. Find a reputable website for lists of providers

Access a site such as Medicare.gov to check lists of providers in an area. These services are free and simple to use. Some patients may be referred to dentists by their primary doctor or specialist if the dental issue falls under the covered sections.

2. Use the search feature

Medicare.gov has a user-friendly search feature. Go to Forms, Help & Resources, and then go to Find Doctors and choose the Doctors and Other Health Professionals option. The next screen will require the user to enter a location and what type of doctor is desired. The system will then provide a list of dentists. There will be icons that show if Medicare is accepted or if it is possible, but not guaranteed, that the coverage is accepted, as shown by Medicare.gov.