Does Medicare cover dental implants?

Dental implants permanently anchor prosthetic teeth into the jawbone. Original Medicare does not help pay for dental implants, but you may have other options to cover the cost.

Let’s explore the details of dental implants, what Medicare can offer and more.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium alloy. The shape is similar to a screw, and the implant is placed in your jawbone to bond with your natural bone. Once the bond forms, the implant becomes a sturdy base to support 1 or more artificial teeth, called crowns.¹

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of dental implants is different for everyone. The procedure has multiple parts and each part can have its own fees. Some parts of a dental implant procedure include:²

Comprehensive dental exam, including 3D imaging
Extraction of problem teeth, if necessary
Installation of the dental implant(s)
Placement of the abutment hardware (piece of metal that connects the implant to the crown)
Fabrication of the dental crown
Placement of the crown

As a rough estimate, the cost of a single dental implant can range from $3,000–$4,500. Implants for multiple teeth can cost between $6,000–$10,000 and a full mouth replacement can be $60,000–$90,000.²

What parts of Medicare pay for dental implants?

Original Medicare Part A (Hospital insurance) and Part B (Medical insurance) don’t offer any coverage for dental implants. However, if health concerns occur after a dental implant procedure, Original Medicare may help cover some of those costs.

Medicare Advantage

A Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) is your only option for getting dental implants covered by Medicare. Some Medicare Advantage plans provide dental benefits than can include coverage for dental implants. If coverage for dental implants is important to you, be sure it’s included in the benefit summary before buying the plan.

Learn more about Medicare and dental care

For more information, including how to get coverage for dental services Medicare doesn’t cover, check out Medicare and dental care.

Frequently asked questions

1. Does Medicare cover other dental services?

Original Medicare doesn’t cover most dental care, including procedures like cleanings, fillings and extractions, or supplies like dental devices. Original Medicare may pay for some dental services that are closely related to other covered medical services.³

2. Are dental implants worth it?

Only you and your dentist can answer this question. If you’re considering the procedure, discuss with your dentist the pros and cons of getting dental implants.