Dental, vision, and hearing are top reasons seniors choose Medicare Advantage. Here is how these extra benefits actually work.
What dental, vision, and hearing benefits cover
Original Medicare generally excludes routine dental, vision, and hearing care, a major gap for seniors. Most Medicare Advantage plans fill it by adding these benefits. Dental coverage can include cleanings, exams, X-rays, and sometimes major work like crowns or dentures up to an annual allowance. Vision benefits often cover routine eye exams plus an allowance toward glasses or contacts. Hearing benefits typically cover exams and a substantial allowance toward hearing aids, which can otherwise cost thousands. The depth varies a lot between plans, so a generous-sounding benefit may have low annual limits. A 1-800-MEDIGAP advisor can compare the actual dollar amounts for you.
How to compare the extras
Because dental, vision, and hearing benefits differ so much, read past the headline. Check the annual maximum allowance for each, whether there's a deductible or waiting period, and whether you must use specific in-network dentists, optometrists, or audiologists. A plan advertising 'comprehensive dental' might cap coverage at a few hundred dollars, while another offers far more. If these benefits are a priority, especially expensive hearing aids or major dental work, the specifics can outweigh a difference in premium. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) and a licensed advisor will line up the real dental, vision, and hearing allowances of plans in your area.