Seniors over the age of 65 are typically at increased risk of oral problems such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancers. However, only 53 percent of Medicare beneficiaries have dental insurance to cover costs for treatment of these oral problems.1 Unfortunately, many older adults face the issue of losing company health coverage when they retire, and most Medicare-sponsored plans offer minimal or no dental coverage. This can leave a majority of aging individuals in need of a dental insurance plan at an affordable cost.
We have put together a list of the top dental companies based on availability, in-network providers, coverage options, and cost. Below, you’ll find an updated listing of the top senior dental plans for 2024.
Money-saving Tip:
Money-saving Tip: Check out our list of free and low-cost dental plans for seniors to learn how you can save on oral care.
How We Chose Our Top Dental Insurance Picks
Shopping for a quality dental plan? Our list covers everything you need to know. We researched the best dental insurance plans for seniors by looking at premiums, benefits and discounts, waiting periods, deductibles, and more.
If you’re a retiring senior, read our guide to help you find the perfect dental plan customized for your needs.
15
Plans considered
3
Experts consulted
50
Plans selected
75
Hours of research
Top 10 Highest Ranked Senior Dental Plans for 2024
- Humana - Best Coverage
- Aetna - Most Comprehensive Plans
- Cigna - Best App
- Guardian - Best Value
- Careington - Best Low-Cost Plans
- Delta - Best Vision and Dental Bundling
- UnitedHealthcare - Best Network of Providers
- MetLife - Best Reputation
-
1. Spirit Dental & Vision - Best Loyalty Program
View Plans
What we like most
- No waiting periods for most types of dental care
- All plans come with two free exams and three annual cleanings
- Option to add vision, life, and disability policies
Spirit Dental & Vision
View Plans
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.9
Ease of use Service & Response Pricing excellent excellent excellent Please scroll to the right for more info.
Spirit Dental stands out among dental insurance providers for a number of reasons. In addition to plans with in-network providers and those that allow you to pick your own dentist, Spirit Dental has no waiting period for basic dental care or even major services such as bridges or crowns. Customers receive two free exams and three annual cleanings with every plan, which is rare for the industry. Moreover, the longer you maintain policies, the higher your savings. Spirit Dental offers vision, life, and disability add-on policies in addition to dental benefits. It doesn’t deny any applications, but it does exclude certain pre-existing conditions such as broken dentures, teeth, or implants.
Pros About Spirit Dental & Vision
- No applications are denied
- No waiting periods
- Senior-specific plan called the Senior Preferred Network
- Senior-friendly policies
- $100 lifetime deductible
- Up to $5,000 annual benefit maximum is higher than most competitors
- Three dental cleanings per year
- Can save up to 25 to 50 percent with PPO plans
- Guaranteed acceptance
Cons About Spirit Dental & Vision
- Only covers dental issues obtained during coverage periods
- Out-of-network providers cost more
Pricing
Spirit Dental plans cover two people, but the company also offers family plans for more comprehensive coverage. Rates for couples depend on the plan you choose and your location, with averages ranging from $45 to $200 per month. Family plans cost more, but include up to $5,000 maximum coverage with a lifetime $100 deductible. Preventive care is 100 percent covered, and vision insurance can be added for as little as $7 monthly. Additionally, if you have a Spirit Dental Senior Preferred Plan, you can choose to opt in for hearing coverage.
The Bottom Line
Seniors looking to stick to a single dental provider long-term may enjoy greater benefits with Spirit Dental. Along with guaranteed acceptance, policy rates are affordable, with most basic procedures covered at up to 65 percent in the first year. These savings can increase to 90 percent by the third year of coverage. Plus, you can choose your dentist, giving you more autonomy over your dental care. You can also save on more expensive treatments such as dental implants, crowns, bridges, and more.
-
2. Humana - Best Coverage
View Plans
What we like most
- Major discounts available when bundling dental and vision
- Consultation-free access to specialists
- More than 335,000 providers in its network
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.6
Ease of use Service & Response Pricing excellent excellent excellent Please scroll to the right for more info.
Humana is one of the nation’s largest dental insurance providers, offering plans for employers, groups, and individuals. With highly-rated customer service and affordable plans, Humana is popular among seniors because it offers special veterans’ programs and a loyalty program to most consumers. These plans may include discounts on hearing exams, alternative medical therapies, and prescription discounts. They can even be combined with vision insurance. With over 335,000 dental care providers in its network, finding care with Humana is a breeze online, via the mobile app, or by calling customer service.
Pros About Humana
- Benefits increase annually for three years under Humana’s Loyalty Plus Dental Plan
- Affordable preventative care dental plans starting at $18 per month
- Combining dental and vision coverage gets policyholders great discounts on multiple services
- Patients can see specialists without consulting a primary-care dentist with a PPO plan
- Convenient online features and a mobile app streamline the experience
- Special discounts and packages for veterans
- Recognized for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power in 2023
Cons About Humana
- Higher fees for smokers
- One-time enrollment fees and monthly administrative fees for select dental plans
- Not all plans are available in every state
Pricing
Humana offers numerous programs, such as the Dental Savings Plus Discount Plan. It’s an affordable dental discount plan that is accepted by participating dentists, rather than a typical insurance plan. Customers pay a flat monthly rate of $6.99 and a $15 enrollment fee with an average of $14 savings on copays for non-emergent office visits. A few of the plans have a $35 enrollment fee, and costs vary depending on your home state, age, smoking status, and the package you choose. Top options include Humana Bright Plus Veterans, Preventive Value, and Loyalty. The latter has a one-time deductible rather than an annual one, making it the most comprehensive (and expensive) plan.
Did You Know?
Did You Know? You might be able to get a $0 monthly premium Humana Medicare Advantage plan with extra benefits like dental coverage and vision coverage if eligible. Contact Humana for more information.
The Bottom Line
Convenient and cost-effective, Humana dental insurance is the best deal in today’s market for people who have served in the military under the Bright Plus Veterans plan. Only a one-year commitment is required to enjoy the immense benefits of this exclusive program. Seniors can easily find a dentist, review benefits and coverage, access account information, claim statuses, check prescription prices, locate a pharmacy, and refill prescriptions through the MyHumana app.
-
3. Aetna - Most Comprehensive Plans
View Plans
What we like most
- 100% coverage for preventative treatments
- Low monthly premiums
- Coverage for dentures after a waiting period
Aetna
View Plans
SeniorLiving.org Rating N/A
Ease of use Service & Response Pricing excellent above average above average Please scroll to the right for more info.
Aetna, with its nationwide network of more than 420,000 providers, is one of the most popular insurers in the U.S. for individuals and families. Aetna is a solid dental insurance provider with numerous options to consider. Currently, Aetna offers three main PPO plans with the most inexpensive one starting at $19.80 per month. Plus, they offer a dental discount card, Aetna Vital Savings, for instant savings of 15 to 50 percent off most dental services, with card rates starting at $7.99 per month.
Pros About Aetna
- Plans cover 100 percent of preventive treatments
- Easy-to-navigate website with convenient online claim forms and tracking
- Coverage for dentures after a waiting period
- PPO plans
- Can add vision coverage to your dental plan
- Offers dental discount card for more savings
Cons About Aetna
- Waiting periods range from six months to a year and a half
- Payments must be made online
- Aetna Vital Savings (dental discount card) not available in some states
Pricing
Premiums vary depending on your state of residence and current health condition. On average, the lowest premiums cost between $20 and $31, while upgraded plans average $45 to $70. Those are some of the most reasonable rates on the market, making Aetna dental insurance a great deal for eligible seniors.
The Bottom Line
With low rates and exceptional coverage through a wide network of top-notch dentists, Aetna dental plans offer a great way to save money and maintain oral health. Seniors with Aetna will enjoy up to 50 percent coverage for denture repairs and affordable coverage for new dentures and replacements.
-
4. Cigna - Best App
What we like most
- Large provider network
- Excellent customer service
- Affordable preventive services
Cigna
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.5
Ease of use Service & Response Pricing excellent excellent excellent Please scroll to the right for more info.
With more than 88,000 dentists and over 309,000 provider locations nationwide, Cigna is a well-known dental insurance provider. If you love traveling, or have considered living abroad for an extended period, Cigna might be a great choice for affordable dental insurance coverage.
Cigna offers three coverage options, including an affordable preventive care package that covers 100 percent of associated costs such as exams, X-rays, basic cleanings, and fluoride treatments. The Cigna Dental Preventive Plan has no deductibles or copays for office visits, and an approximate $19 average monthly premium. Many seniors appreciate that Cigna Dental PPO plans don’t require patients to self-submit claims or pay the entire cost of treatments up front. Cigna’s dentists always file claims, and you simply pay the remaining balance. Keep in mind that you can choose from low deductible plans, high annual maximum plans, or bundled plans for more comprehensive coverage.
Did You Know?
Did You Know? In some cases, you can choose a Cigna dental care insurance plan through your workplace or employer.
Pros About Cigna
- Nationwide coverage
- Biannual exams, cleanings, and X-rays are included in plans
- No primary dentist required for patients with a PPO
- No claims for patients to file
- Easy-to-navigate patient portal app
- 24/7 customer service for Cigna Dental Preventive Plan
- Offers three-in-one bundled plans (dental, vision, and hearing with monthly premiums low as $32 per month)
- Over 17 million customers
- Great customer service
- Offers affordable dental savings program
Cons About Cigna
- Coverage and benefits vary depending on your state
- One-year waiting period before higher-level coverage is active
- Payout percentages for basic services are lower than other providers
Pricing
The Cigna Dental Preventive Plan covers the cost of cleanings, fluoride applications, oral exams, X-rays, sealant, and non-orthodontic space maintainers. These are covered 100 percent twice per year. The Cigna Dental 1000 plan, conversely, maxes out at $1,000 per person annually and has a $50 and $150 deductible for individual and family plans, respectively. The average monthly premium starts at $33 but may vary. In comparison, Cigna Dental 1500 is best for those who may need additional dental care such as orthodontia with an average monthly premium of $39.
With the highest amount of coverage, Cigna Dental 5000/250 Insurance Plan is capped at $5,000 per person per year and has a maximum $250 deductible per person. Both plans have a one-year waiting period for major procedure coverage, but they cover a portion of dental work, including root canals, crowns, and fillings. The Cigna Dental 5000/250 plan covers orthodontics, while the Cigna Dental 1000 plan does not, but Cigna has you covered with a range of plans and coverage levels between the two. Specific plan pricing varies tremendously by state, but typically ranges from $20 to $60 per person per month.
The Bottom Line
Seniors seeking flexible dental insurance at great rates with global coverage should consider Cigna. As a PPO, you have no primary dentist and have a large network of providers. Cigna also pays a portion of most services from out-of-network providers, making it very convenient. Older adults will find the company’s website easy to navigate and won’t have to worry about processing claims or paying out of pocket for covered expenses.
-
5. Guardian - Best Value
What we like most
- Preventive care covered for in-network and out-of-network providers
- Easy-to-use online cost estimator
- Fast claims payouts
Guardian
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.0
Ease of use Service & Response Pricing excellent excellent excellent Please scroll to the right for more info.
Guardian offers four primary dental insurance plans that can help seniors enjoy better oral health without breaking the bank. Of all the companies we reviewed, Guardian appears to offer the best coverage at the best rates. It has an extensive network of providers and service locations, but there is a catch: Guardian has over 120,000 in-network providers in 400,000 locations nationwide, about half the offering of many other providers on this list. Older adults residing in those states can use Guardian’s “search by ZIP code” function to find some great deals and dental coverage. Plans often cover the full cost of preventive care, such as standard cleanings and X-rays, and offer up to 80 percent discounts on basic procedures such as extractions or fillings.
Pros About Guardian
- Preventive care is covered with in- and out-of-network dental providers
- Guardian has more than 120,000 in-network dental providers
- The dental cost estimator online is accurate
- Easy-to-use online account portal
- No cancellation fees or penalties
- Some dental plans may not cover teeth whitening procedures
Cons About Guardian
- Some of the plans are currently only available in select states
- Waiting periods for select plans
Pricing
Guardian has four dental plans: Diamond, Achiever, Core, and Starter. Plan costs vary depending on the state you live in and the type of coverage you need. On average, the plans range from a budget-friendly $15 per month to comprehensive coverage expenses of around $37 per month, but the cost will also vary between individual plans and family plans. With guaranteed approval and a wide selection of over 120,000 dentists, seniors can get the important dental work they need on time.
The Bottom Line
Seniors may not only appreciate the value of Guardian dental plans, but also find that navigating the company’s online system is rather easy and safe. Using a tablet, computer, or smartphone, policyholders can quickly access a list of providers, track claims, get dental work cost estimates, and explore the more than 120,000 participating dentists with Guardian. This provider also requires minimal claim forms (if any) and pays out claims rather quickly, with turnarounds averaging two to 14 days.
Did You Know?
Did You Know? Many Medicare Advantage plans include dental benefits, along with other benefits and perks. Read our guide to the best dental supplement plans to find out if one of these plans might be a better fit for you.
If you sign up for a Guardian dental insurance plan within 120 days after leaving an employer-sponsored Guardian dental plan, you have the opportunity to skip the waiting period and receive the highest benefit. Learn more on Guardian's website.
-
6. Careington - Best Low-Cost Plans
What we like most
- Discounts for services not typically covered by insurance
- No waiting periods
- Dental insurance alternative
Careington
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.0
Ease of use Service & Response Pricing excellent above average excellent Please scroll to the right for more info.
Careington offers a dental discount program called the 500 Series Plan, which is not to be confused with traditional insurance. Rather, this type of program allows just about anyone to receive discounts ranging from 20 percent off normal rates on an array of dental procedures. Most preventive, restorative, and cosmetic procedures, such as dentures and implants, that aren’t typically covered are discounted with a 500 Series Plan. Customers simply pay an annual fee to gain immediate coverage and access to a network of thousands of participating dental offices that offer discounted services for members. There are no annual spending caps, and you can change dentists at any time as long as the provider is listed in the network.
Pros About Careington
- Low one-time enrollment cost
- Unlimited benefits
- 30-day risk-free trial for 500 Series Plan
- Free benefits for hearing and vision needs, prescriptions, and some specialty health care
- No referral necessary to see specialists
- No waiting periods or health restrictions
- Dental insurance alternative
Cons About Careington
- May not be as comprehensive as traditional insurance
- Plan members pay all costs not covered by the program
- Not insurance
- 500 Series Plan not available in Vermont or Washington
- 500 Series Plan has a $20 non-refundable setup fee for the first year
Pricing
Founded in 1993, Careington has helped over one million people find affordable insurance plans. On average, customers can expect to save 15 to 60 percent on dental care, according to the company. Careington currently offers three plans: The 500 Series Plan, the Care POS Plan, and the Care Plus Plan. The most affordable plan, the Care POS Plan, starts at just $89 per year, which equates to $7.42 per month for one member. If you decide to add two members, the monthly fee equates to $11.58 per month, and for three members, it’s $169 a year.
There is also a one-time non-refundable $20 processing set-up fee when you sign up for the first year. Benefits are available for immediate use. Fee schedules and actual savings for each procedure are listed by the individual providers and vary from dentist to dentist. If you aren’t happy with your plan, then you can cancel at any time within 30 days.
The Bottom Line
Careington’s dental plans are great for seniors looking for a low-cost alternative to traditional insurance. They are excellent for people who don’t require major dental work, as well as people who need dentures. There are no health checks, age requirements, or pre-authorizations needed before seeking treatment under the Careington program. There is also no long waiting period, so you can seek care right away. You’ll also enjoy the extra discounts for vision, hearing, and prescription services. Sign up today to enjoy significant savings without dealing with insurance paperwork.
-
7. Delta - Best Vision and Dental Bundling
What we like most
- PPO and HMO plans available
- Several plans to choose from
- Large provider network
Delta
SeniorLiving.org Rating 3.9
Ease of use Service & Response Pricing above average average above average Please scroll to the right for more info.
Delta Dental policyholders can choose from over 152,000 network providers across the country. Delta is one of the largest providers in the nation, and it offers the flexibility of both an HMO-type plan, which allows you to choose providers and see up-front costs, and a PPO plan, where you can get extra discounts by using the preferred provider network and choosing a primary dentist. Seniors can save up to 80 percent on basic and major services with Delta Dental plans.
Currently, individuals and families can choose from four dental insurance plans or a discount plan, Delta Dental Patient Direct.
One of the benefits of choosing Delta Dental is that it can dictate the maximum out-of-pocket costs within several of its plans. For example, it may specify that a crown will cost policyholders a maximum of $300.
Did You Know?
Did You Know? Dental care can be expensive. Check out the Delta Dental Cost Estimator, which allows you to get an idea of how much different dental care treatments would cost in your area.
Pros About Delta
- Customers can choose between a PPO or HMO dental plan
- Up-front fee listings are available from providers
- Some services have maximum out-of-pocket costs
- Great dental plans for seniors and retirees
Cons About Delta
- Fairly high monthly rates
- Rates increase for people over the age of 50
- Available in a limited number of states
Pricing
Delta Dental Premier, averages $50 for one person, $100 for two people, and $154 for a family plan. The averages depend on whether you choose the HMO- or PPO-type plan, as well as the age of the people listed on the policy. Most packages fully cover two preventive sessions annually.
The Bottom Line
Delta Dental is ideal for seniors looking for a reliable program with a large network of providers to choose from. Budget-minded seniors can see up-front costs of services with potential providers before making a choice, so there are no surprises at the dentist’s office. If you need major dental services such as dentures, root canals, and crowns, then Delta Dental may be a good candidate.
-
8. UnitedHealthcare - Best Network of Providers
What we like most
- Plans designed for seniors available
- Extensive provider network
- Low deductibles for most plans
UnitedHealthcare
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.0
Ease of use Service & Response Pricing above average average average Please scroll to the right for more info.
As one of the nation’s most recognized health insurance providers, UnitedHealthcare has an extensive dental network than most of its competitors. The savings are consistent and predictable with dental insurance from UnitedHealthcare, but prepare to pay more for comprehensive and premium plans. There are, however, cheaper plans with higher copays and lower coverage limits for seniors on a budget.
Currently, UnitedHealthcare offers four dental plans for individuals and families, depending on your location: Premier Choice, Premier Elite, Premier Plus, and Premier Max.
One of the most important things to keep in mind before enrolling in a UnitedHealthcare dental insurance plan is that there are long waiting periods for procedures beyond preventive care. A four- to six-month wait is required for fillings and extractions, for example, and major services such as root canals aren’t covered for 12 months. There are also strict limitations on treatments for pre-existing conditions such as broken dentures or teeth.
Pros About UnitedHealthcare
- Senior-specific plans are available
- Deductibles are low for most programs — especially family plans
- One of the largest selections of in-network providers
- Preventive care is available immediately
- Access to additional benefits such as hearing aid discounts
- Option to add a vision benefit
Cons About UnitedHealthcare
- Long waiting periods for major services, between four months and a year
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions such as dentures, broken teeth, and bridge issues
- Plans vary by state
Pricing
UnitedHealthcare’s four main dental plans have starting prices ranging from around $40 to $70. Just remember prices will vary by age, state, and health status. We recommend contacting the company directly for its latest rates. If the rates fall in line with UnitedHealthcare’s health insurance rates, then expect them to be on the higher end of the spectrum.
The Bottom Line
Seniors who prefer an in-network provider will enjoy the flexibility of UnitedHealthcare since it offers several deductible and premium levels. There are options to use out-of-network providers, but procedures may cost you more out of pocket. One of the greatest benefits for seniors with this company is that it offers age-specific plans designed for older adults. These policies specifically cover common senior dental needs such as dentures, bridges, and dental implants.
-
9. MetLife - Best Reputation
Call for best price: Call to Order: 833-212-8331
What we like most
- Portable dental plans
- Coverage for emergency care and services
- Plans for families and federal employees
MetLife
Call for best price: Call to Order: 833-212-8331
SeniorLiving.org Rating 3.8
Ease of use Service & Response Pricing average average average Please scroll to the right for more info.
MetLife is best known for working with small and large enterprises to provide group life, dental, and other types of insurance for their employees. MetLife, however, also offers family and individual programs through its MetLife TakeAlong Dental plans, assisting over 20 million customers. Essentially, these plans are designed as “portable” dental insurance that can be transferred between jobs and even into retirement via a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) through MetLife. That gives seniors the option to choose a lower-cost provider in the network while still enjoying the freedom to choose any dentist or specialist they prefer at higher rates.
Pros About MetLife
- Coverage for 24/7 emergency care and services
- Retirees under an existing plan can easily transition into a PPO individual or family plan
- Expanded diagnostic benefits for procedures like brush biopsies
- Set fees for multiple service procedures and materials to minimize fee confusion
- MetLife TakeAlong Dental for on-the-go dental coverage
- Offers special dental coverage for families of federal employees through Veteran Affairs Dental Insurance Program and Federal Dental Plan
Cons About MetLife
- Very few options for individual dental plans
- Pricing disclosure is limited online
- Web portal is more designed for businesses and employee members
Pricing
There are no fixed prices for MetLife TakeAlong Dental plans, since it depends on several factors including age, health, and smoking habits. MetLife Dental PPO Plans offer 100 percent preventative care coverage and up to 80 percent coverage for most basic dental procedures.
The Bottom Line
MetLife’s dental programs are a great way to enhance retirement benefits and keep a smile on your face. With coverage for services such as implants, dentures, veneers, and other commonly needed procedures for seniors, MetLife may be the right option to meet your needs.
Why Is Dental Insurance Important for Older Adults?
Taking care of our oral health becomes more important as we age. Older adults have specific dental needs, such as dealing with gum disease and gum recession, root decay, broken or lost teeth, and even arthritic conditions that can lead to dental problems. It’s a good idea for older adults near retirement age to begin looking for a plan to avoid costly coverage gaps, since Medicare doesn’t offer dental coverage.
Most dental insurance companies offer an array of plans, ranging from basic preventive-only coverage and discount savings plans to comprehensive traditional packages and “gold-level” plans. Except for dental discount plans, most programs have at least a six-month waiting period for coverage to kick in, especially for major dental work. This makes finding a new policy before losing any current coverage essential for older adults.
How Much Is Senior Dental Insurance?
Stand-alone dental insurance plans can range anywhere from $30 per month to over $100 monthly for individual plans, and family programs average triple those estimates depending on coverage levels. Deductibles typically average between $50 and $150 per year, but some plans offer a one-time deductible for premium policies. The most affordable option for people seeking temporary or low-cost care is to invest between $75 and $150 in a dental insurance discount program that offers enrollees substantial discounts on all services within days of signing up. Costs vary for different types of coverage by state, age, number of enrollees, and your selected plan.
Senior Dental Plans and Dentures
Dentures are often covered under certain dental insurance plans and/or dental savings or discount programs. However, under most traditional dental insurance programs, members will have to wait a year or more to qualify for denture-related services. The good news is that most dental discount plans offer some level of denture coverage within days of enrollment for a small annual enrollment fee. It’s important to check each plan carefully to see if there is a pre-existing condition clause that prohibits dentures and repairs unless the teeth are lost or broken during a period of coverage under the policy.
