TRICARE Coverage for Dental Care & Oral Health
Overview
Dental coverage through TRICARE varies significantly by beneficiary status. Active duty members receive comprehensive dental care through military dental clinics. Active duty family members can enroll in the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP). Retirees and their families access dental coverage through FEDVIP.
Treatment Options Covered by TRICARE
- Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)
- Restorative care (fillings, crowns)
- Endodontics (root canals)
- Periodontics (gum treatment)
- Oral surgery (extractions, wisdom teeth)
- Orthodontics (braces, aligners)
- Prosthodontics (bridges, dentures)
- Dental implants (limited coverage)
- Emergency dental care
- Sealants for children
How TRICARE Covers Dental Care & Oral Health
Active duty members receive dental care at military dental clinics at no cost. ADFMs enroll in the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) through United Concordia with low premiums. Retirees access dental through FEDVIP. Dental implants have limited coverage — typically only when needed due to trauma or as part of cancer reconstruction.
Coverage by Plan
TRICARE Prime
Active duty: $0 at MTF dental clinic. ADFMs: Must enroll in TDP separately ($12-39/month). TDP covers preventive, basic, and major services with varying cost shares.
TRICARE Select
ADFMs: Same TDP enrollment as Prime ADFMs. Coverage and costs are the same regardless of medical plan choice.
TRICARE For Life
No TRICARE dental benefit. Retirees 65+ enroll in FEDVIP through carriers like MetLife, Delta Dental, etc. Separate premiums apply.
Estimated Costs
| Scenario | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Active duty dental cleaning (MTF) | $0 |
| TDP monthly premium (single) | ~$12/month |
| TDP monthly premium (family) | ~$39/month |
| TDP preventive visit | $0 copay |
| TDP filling | 20% cost share |
| TDP crown | 40% cost share |
| TDP orthodontics | 50% cost share, $1,750 lifetime max |
Authorization Requirements
Standard dental services through TDP do not require prior authorization. Some major services may require predetermination. FEDVIP plans have their own authorization requirements.
Network & Provider Notes
The TRICARE Dental Program uses the United Concordia dental network. FEDVIP plans have their own networks. Using in-network providers significantly reduces out-of-pocket costs for both programs.