Does TRICARE cover dental implants?

TRICARE's standard medical benefit covers dental implants only when they are medically necessary as part of treatment for a medical condition, such as jaw reconstruction following cancer surgery or repair after accidental trauma. Routine dental implants for tooth replacement due to decay or periodontal disease are not covered under the medical benefit. The TRICARE Dental Program (TDP), administered by United Concordia, may provide coverage for dental implants as a prosthodontic benefit, subject to a 12-month waiting period and a cost-share of approximately 50% for the implant procedure. The annual maximum benefit under the TDP applies, which limits the total amount covered per year. Active duty service members may receive dental implants at military dental clinics based on clinical need, mission readiness requirements, and available resources at their duty station.