Independent guide
TRICARE dental coverage
Routine dental care is a dental program. It is not the same benefit as medical TRICARE.
Last reviewed October 2, 2026 ยท Confirm time-sensitive details with the official program.
Official decisions come from TRICARE. This guide helps organize public information; verify eligibility, coverage, deadlines, costs, and contacts at TRICARE.mil.
Medical TRICARE does not replace a dental plan
Routine dental care runs through the TRICARE Dental Program or the Active Duty Dental Program, depending on who you are. Those are separate from the medical plan. Some dental work that is part of a covered medical condition is billed as medical care instead.
Check which program you are enrolled in before you book a cleaning, a crown, or oral surgery. The phone numbers for both dental programs are on the phone numbers page.