Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental care, routine eye exams for prescription glasses, or most eyewear. It does cover some dental and eye services when Medicare’s medical requirements are met.
Dental coverage
Medicare usually does not cover cleanings, fillings, routine extractions, dentures, or implants. Medicare may cover dental services that are directly related to certain covered medical treatments. Examples include an oral examination and necessary dental treatment before a heart valve procedure, organ transplant, or certain cancer treatment. Medicare may also cover treatment of an oral infection related to covered dialysis or cancer care. Part A may cover dental services received during an inpatient hospital stay when hospitalization is required because of the underlying condition or the severity of the procedure.
Vision coverage
Part B does not cover routine eye exams for glasses or contact lenses. It does cover specific services, including annual glaucoma tests for people at high risk, diabetic eye exams, certain tests and treatment for macular degeneration, and cataract surgery. After cataract surgery that inserts an intraocular lens, Part B may cover one pair of standard eyeglasses or contact lenses from a Medicare-enrolled supplier.
Costs and Medicare Advantage
You pay the full cost of noncovered routine care. For most Part B-covered services, the Part B deductible and 20 percent coinsurance apply when the provider accepts assignment. Facility charges may also apply. Medicare Advantage plans must cover services covered by Original Medicare and may include additional routine dental or vision benefits. Limits, networks, copayments, and annual allowances vary by plan.
What to do next
- Ask the dentist or eye care provider whether the service is routine or connected to a Medicare-covered condition or treatment.
- Confirm that the provider and supplier are enrolled in Medicare.
- If you have Medicare Advantage, review the plan’s dental and vision benefit limits before receiving care.
- Read Medicare’s pages on dental services and routine eye exams.
Sources
Coverage and costs can change each calendar year. Check current Medicare rules and current plan documents before receiving care. A provider’s estimate is not a Medicare coverage decision. Final payment depends on the claim and the applicable coverage requirements.
Last reviewed: August 2026. Medicare rules and plan benefits can change.