Does Medicare Cover Dental, Vision, and Hearing? Your 2024 Guide

One of the most common shocks for new Medicare enrollees is discovering that Original Medicare covers almost no routine dental, vision, or hearing care. A dental crown averaging $1,100, hearing aids costing $2,000–$7,000 per pair, or prescription eyeglasses at $400+ per year — none of these are covered under Parts A or B in most circumstances. This gap affects roughly 37 million Medicare beneficiaries who need dental work annually and the 48 million Americans over 65 with some degree of hearing loss. Understanding your options is critical to avoiding surprise expenses in retirement.

What Medicare Does and Doesn't Cover

• Dental: Almost Nothing Under Original Medicare

  Part A covers dental care only if hospitalized for a related medical condition (e.g., jaw reconstruction after an accident). Routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, crowns, dentures, and implants are not covered. The average senior spends $900+ per year on dental care out of pocket.

• Vision: Limited Exceptions Only

  Part B covers annual eye exams for diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma testing for high-risk individuals. Routine eye exams, prescription glasses, and contact lenses are not covered — except one pair of glasses after cataract surgery with an intraocular lens implant.

• Hearing: Basic Diagnostic Tests Only

  Part B covers diagnostic hearing exams ordered by a physician to determine the cause of a medical condition. It does not cover routine hearing exams or hearing aids. The average cost for a pair of hearing aids is $4,600, and most people need replacements every 5 years.

• Medicare Advantage: The Primary Solution

  Over 95% of Medicare Advantage plans include some dental, vision, and hearing benefits. Dental coverage ranges from basic preventive care to comprehensive plans covering major procedures. Vision coverage typically includes annual exams and an eyewear allowance of $100–$300. Hearing benefits often include annual exams and a hearing aid allowance of $500–$2,500.

• Standalone Dental/Vision Plans

  If you have Original Medicare, standalone dental and vision plans from private insurers cost $15–$50/month. Dental plans through AARP/UnitedHealthcare, Delta Dental, and Humana are popular options. Compare annual maximums (usually $1,000–$2,000) against your expected dental needs.

In October 2022, the FDA established a new over-the-counter hearing aid category for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss. OTC hearing aids from brands like Sony, Jabra, and Lexie are available for $199–$1,499 without a prescription or audiologist visit. While not appropriate for severe hearing loss or complex fitting needs, they represent a revolutionary cost-saving option for many seniors. Compare OTC options against Medicare Advantage plan allowances before making a purchase decision.