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dental-vision
Is dental care covered under TRICARE?
Verified by TRICARE.com Editorial Team
Updated 2024-12-01
AI-assisted (gemini, gpt-4o)
Quick Answer
TRICARE doesn't include routine dental. Active duty get military dental; families/retirees enroll in TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) through United Concordia for monthly premiums.
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Key Takeaways
- Separate from medical TRICARE
- Active duty use military dental
- TDP for families/retirees
- Monthly premiums required
Detailed Answer
TRICARE dental coverage:
Active Duty
- Free dental at military clinics
- Part of readiness requirements
- Annual exams required
Family and Retirees
- TRICARE Dental Program (TDP)
- Separate enrollment and premium
- Through United Concordia
TDP Coverage
- Preventive: Exams, cleanings, X-rays
- Basic: Fillings, extractions
- Major: Crowns, root canals
- Orthodontics (with limits)
TDP Costs
- Monthly premiums
- Cost-shares by service type
- Annual maximum limits
Not in TDP
- Purely cosmetic procedures
- Implants (limited)
- Some elective services
How to Enroll
- Through beneficiary web enrollment
- Anytime (no open season)
- 12-month commitment
Helpful Tips
- Enroll before dental needs
- Use preventive care fully
- 12-month commitment
Sponsored
What do most military families add to their TRICARE coverage?
Most Popular
Supplemental health insurance is the most common addition — it covers dental, vision, and out-of-pocket costs that TRICARE leaves uncovered. Life insurance and a legal will are also highly recommended.
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