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How Dental Plans Can Save Seniors Thousands in Dental Work

  • Silver Crest Insurance
  • Jul 30
  • 2 min read

As we age, maintaining our oral health becomes more important—and unfortunately, more expensive. From routine cleanings to unexpected dental procedures, the costs can add up quickly, especially for retirees living on a fixed income. That’s why having a dental insurance plan isn’t just a good idea—it’s often a financial lifesaver.

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Here’s how a well-chosen dental plan can save seniors thousands of dollars and provide peace of mind well into retirement.


Dental Costs Add Up—Fast

Let’s start with the basics. Common dental procedures and their average out-of-pocket costs without insurance:

Procedure

Average Cost (No Insurance)

Routine Cleaning

$100–$200

X-rays

$50–$300

Fillings

$150–$450 per tooth

Crowns

$1,000–$2,500 each

Root Canal

$700–$1,500 per tooth

Dentures (full set)

$1,500–$3,500+

Implants

$3,000–$5,000 per tooth


Now imagine needing multiple procedures over a few years. It’s not uncommon for seniors to face dental bills totaling $5,000–$10,000 or more—and that’s without factoring in emergencies.


Medicare Doesn't Cover Most Dental Work

One of the biggest surprises for many retirees is that Original Medicare (Parts A & B) does not cover routine dental care, including:

  • Exams

  • Cleanings

  • Fillings

  • Dentures

  • Crowns or implants

Without supplemental dental coverage, you’re left to pay for these entirely out of pocket.


How a Dental Plan Saves You Money

Dental insurance helps cover both routine care and more serious procedures. Depending on your plan, you could save:

  • 100% on preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)

  • 50–80% on fillings, extractions, and basic work

  • Up to 50% on major services like crowns, dentures, or bridges

A good dental plan can easily pay for itself with just one or two covered visits per year.


Why Seniors Need Dental Care More Than Ever

Aging often comes with new oral health challenges:

  • Thinning enamel and increased risk of decay

  • Dry mouth due to medications

  • Bone loss in the jaw

  • Higher risk of gum disease

Routine dental visits help prevent small issues from becoming big, expensive problems—but seniors are more likely to delay care if they’re worried about cost.


Real-Life Savings Example

Let’s say a senior needs:

  • 2 cleanings per year

  • 1 filling

  • 1 crown


Without insurance, this could cost $2,000–$2,500 out of pocket.


With a solid dental insurance plan through Silver Crest:

  • Preventive care: $0 (fully covered)

  • Filling: $60–$100

  • Crown: $500–$800


Total savings: $1,200+ in just one year

Over several years, the savings can add up to thousands.


Choosing the Right Dental Plan

Not all dental plans are the same. At Silver Crest Insurance, we help you:

  • Choose plans that work well with Medicare

  • Compare premiums vs. coverage limits

  • Understand waiting periods and annual maximums

  • Pick a plan that fits your health and budget needs

We work with top carriers that specialize in Dental, Vision & Hearing (DVH) coverage for seniors.


Ready to Save on Dental Costs?

If you're nearing retirement—or already there—it’s not too late to protect your smile and your wallet.


Contact Silver Crest Insurance today for a free quote or personalized help choosing the right dental plan.


Let us help you stay healthy, happy, and smiling—without breaking the bank.

 
 
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