Dental and vision coverage in the United States is available through various government programs tailored to different groups based on employment, age, and income. These programs help cover routine preventive care, treatments, and eyewear, providing essential support for maintaining oral and eye health.
Federal Employees and Military Families
Federal employees, retirees, and their families can enroll in the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), a voluntary program offering multiple plan options with no deductibles for in-network preventive care. FEDVIP covers a range of dental and vision services through several carriers. Military members and their families have access to the TRICARE Dental Program, which provides comprehensive dental coverage separate from other health benefits.
Seniors and Low-Income Individuals
Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental or vision care, but some Medicare Advantage plans may offer these benefits. Learn more about these options in our Medicare dental and vision coverage guide. Medicaid dental coverage varies by state, especially for adults; check your state’s rules in the Medicaid adult dental care state-by-state guide.
Marketplace Dental Coverage
If you are self-employed, between jobs, or otherwise ineligible for employer-sponsored coverage, you can purchase dental plans through the health insurance marketplace. These plans are separate from health insurance but offer preventive and major dental care options. See our Marketplace dental plans guide for details on how to enroll and what is covered.
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