Dental Insurance for Seniors in NJ: A Comprehensive Guide

As a senior living in New Jersey, you're likely aware of the importance of good oral health. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that nearly 1 in 5 seniors in the US have untreated cavities, which can lead to more serious health issues.

In New Jersey, the average cost of a dental filling is around $150, while a root canal can cost upwards of $1,000. This is why having dental insurance is crucial for seniors, as it can help cover these expenses and prevent financial burdens.

Many seniors in New Jersey rely on Medicare, but it doesn't cover routine dental care, including cleanings, fillings, and extractions. This is where private dental insurance comes in, offering a range of coverage options to suit different needs and budgets.

In the next section, we'll explore the different types of dental insurance available to seniors in New Jersey, including Medigap and private insurance plans.

In New Jersey, having dental insurance can be a game-changer for seniors. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and good oral hygiene is crucial for life expectancy and quality of life.

Gum disease affects 68% of Americans 65 and older, and dry mouth affects 30%. Oral cancer is also more common among seniors. Regular dental care can help mitigate these problems.

More than 1 in 4 seniors in New Jersey haven't visited their dentist in the last five years. Delta Dental's insurance network can help you find a local dentist.

A strong correlation exists between dental health and overall health. Studies show that good dental health can contribute to overall wellness.

Dental insurance typically covers services from routine cleanings and checkups to major procedures. This can help you take control of your health and be prepared for unforeseen expenses.

Here are some key things to consider when shopping for dental insurance in New Jersey:

Many seniors in New Jersey are unaware that original Medicare and Medigap do not cover routine dental care. Only certain Medicare Advantage policies include dental coverage.

65% of Medicare beneficiaries lack dental coverage, highlighting the need for seniors to explore their options. This is a significant concern, as dental health is closely linked to overall health.

Gum disease and dry mouth are widespread among Americans 65 and older, affecting 68% and 30% of seniors, respectively. Oral cancer is also more common in this age group.

Fortunately, there are many dental insurance options available for seniors. UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Aetna, Humana, and Devoted Health are top picks for Medicare Advantage dental insurance, each offering notable dental coverage.

To choose the best plan, consider the insurance that the dentists in your area accept and the coverage provided. Check the plan's ratings and specific benefits, including copays for dental services and coverage for things like dentures and root canals.

Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating dental insurance plans for seniors:

By understanding these factors, seniors in New Jersey can make informed decisions about their dental insurance and take control of their oral health.

Medicare beneficiaries in NJ who lack dental coverage are in the majority, with 65% not having it. This means they may have to pay out-of-pocket for routine dental care.

Original Medicare and Medigap don't cover routine dental care, but Medicare Advantage plans can offer dental coverage. If you're enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can expect to pay a copay or coinsurance for every service.

Some Medicare Advantage plans have a $0 copay for certain services, but may have a dollar limit on coverage, such as a $1,000 annual maximum benefit for preventive or comprehensive services.

Common Procedure Costs can add up quickly, with costs ranging from $1,050 to $2,300 for some procedures.

Internal data from our company shows that these prices are typical for a specific period.

The cost of dental insurance plans varies, with some costing $1,100 to $2,500.

These prices are based on data from December 2018 to May 2019, so they may not reflect current costs.

Some procedures, like a certain type of cleaning, can cost as little as $210 to $330.

Medicare Advantage dental insurance costs vary by plan and service. Some plans require a copay or coinsurance for every service, while others have a $0 copay for in-network providers but charge coinsurance or aren't covered for out-of-network services.

Services with a $0 copay often come with a dollar limit on coverage, such as a $1,000 annual maximum benefit for preventive or comprehensive services.

For plans with more comprehensive dental benefits, the average annual dollar limit on coverage is $1,300, according to the health policy nonprofit KFF.