Hey veterans and family members, welcome to a breakdown of VA benefits designed to help you get the care you deserve. In this article, our contributor addresses a frequently asked question: Does the VA cover dental care?
Does the VA Cover Dental Care?
Dental care is essential for overall health, yet VA dental benefits are not automatically available to all veterans. Eligibility depends on specific criteria. Below are the nine primary ways a veteran may qualify for VA dental care.
How May a Veteran Qualify for VA Dental Care?
- Veterans with a 100% VA disability rating—whether schedular or due to unemployability—qualify for comprehensive dental care, which includes routine cleanings and complex procedures.
- Those with a service-connected dental condition rated at 10% or higher are eligible for necessary dental treatments related to that condition.
- Former prisoners of war (POWs) are entitled to any needed dental care, in recognition of the unique challenges faced during captivity.
- Veterans discharged within the last 180 days who did not receive a complete dental exam and treatment before discharge may be eligible for one-time dental care, provided they served at least 90 days of active duty and were not dishonorably discharged.
- Even veterans with a 0% rating may qualify for necessary dental care if their dental condition is combat-related.
- If a VA dental provider determines that a dental issue is aggravating a service-connected health condition, the veteran becomes eligible for treatment to address that problem.
- Participants in the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program may receive dental care if it’s necessary to meet rehabilitation or employment goals.
- Veterans receiving VA medical care whose dental issues are complicating treatment may be eligible for dental care to resolve those complications.
- Veterans enrolled in VA-sponsored homeless programs may qualify for dental care focused on relieving pain, treating infection, or aiding in securing employment.
What Dental Procedures Does the VA Cover?
For eligible veterans, the VA may cover a variety of dental procedures. These services can include exams, cleanings, x-rays, fillings, crowns, dentures, and even implants, depending on the qualifying criteria. However, continued maintenance—such as for implants—may not be covered unless the veteran continues to meet the eligibility requirements.
What If a Veteran Doesn’t Qualify for VA Dental Care?
Veterans who do not qualify for VA dental care still have an option through the VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP). This program offers discounted private dental insurance to veterans enrolled in VA health care and CHAMPVA beneficiaries. VADIP provides access to a wide range of dental services at reduced costs.
To apply for VA dental benefits, complete VA Form 10-10EZ either online or at a local VA facility. For VADIP, visit the VA’s dental insurance webpage to explore available plans and enroll.
Understanding VA benefits can be complex, but learning about eligibility is the first step toward maintaining oral health.
Where to Get More Information on VA Disability Claims
If this information was helpful, consider exploring additional resources such as the VA Claims Insider Elite program. Veterans are encouraged to stay informed about their benefits to ensure they receive the care they deserve. Comments, questions, or shared experiences can be left below for community discussion.
Disclaimer: This article was provided by our contributor. Some portions of the content may reflect personal opinions or interpretations. Readers are encouraged to consult official VA sources or a certified representative for personalized guidance.
