TRICARE Dental Coverage Types: 2026 Guide to Plans
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## Quick answer TRICARE dental coverage is split into three distinct programs: the Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP) for those on orders, the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) for families and reservists, and the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) for retirees. Most beneficiaries must enroll in these plans separately and pay a monthly premium, as dental is not included in standard TRICARE health plans.
Details
### 1. Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP) Active duty service members (ADSMs) receive full dental coverage at no cost. In most cases, care is provided at military dental clinics (Direct Care). However, if an ADSM is stationed in a remote location or the military clinic is unavailable, they use the **Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP)** managed by United Concordia. * **Cost:** $0 out-of-pocket for covered services. * **Access:** Requires a referral if seeking care from a civilian dentist unless in a designated "Remote" location.
### 2. TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) This is a voluntary, premium-based plan for high-priority groups who are not on active duty. It is currently administered by United Concordia. * **Eligibility:** Active duty family members (ADFMs), Selected Reserve, and Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) members and their families. * **2026 Premiums (Projected):** Monthly premiums vary based on the sponsor’s status and the number of people enrolled (Single vs. Family). For example, in the 2024-2025 cycle, ADFM single premiums were approximately $12/month; check TRICARE.mil for exact 2026 rates. * **Coverage:** 100% for diagnostic and preventive services (cleanings, X-rays). 50%–80% for restorative, endodontic, and oral surgery. There is a $1,500–$2,000 annual benefit cap depending on the service type.
### 3. FEDVIP (Retiree Dental) Since 2019, TRICARE retirees no longer have a "TRICARE" dental plan. Instead, they use **FEDVIP**, the same program available to federal employees. * **Eligibility:** Retired service members and their families, plus certain survivors. * **Providers:** Beneficiaries choose from multiple private carriers (e.g., Delta Dental, Blue Cross Blue Shield, MetLife, Aetna). * **Enrollment:** You can only enroll during the annual Federal Benefits Open Season (typically mid-November to mid-December) or after a Qualifying Life Event (QLE).
### 4. TRICARE Overseas Program For those stationed OCONUS, dental care works similarly but is managed by International SOS. Active duty members still have priority at overseas military dental clinics. Family members enrolled in the TDP have access to a network of OCONUS dentists, though cost-shares may apply differently than in the CONUS market.
## Who this affects * **Active Duty Service Members:** Automatic coverage via military clinics or ADDP. * **Active Duty Families:** Must enroll in the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) and pay premiums. * **National Guard & Reserve:** Eligible for TDP (Selected Reserve) or FEDVIP (if retired). * **Retirees & Families:** Eligible for dental coverage only through FEDVIP. * **Survivors:** Eligible for TDP (transitional) or FEDVIP depending on status.
## Sources * **TRICARE.mil Dental Overview:** https://www.tricare.mil/dental * **United Concordia (TDP/ADDP Contractor):** https://www.uccitdp.com * **BENEFEDS (FEDVIP Enrollment):** https://www.benefeds.com * **Defense Health Agency (DHA):** https://health.mil/