Get Answers to Your TRICARE Dental Program Coverage Questions

FALLS CHURCH, Virginia, Sept. 4 -- Defense Health Agency issued the following news release:

Are you looking to keep that healthy smile? Practicing good oral hygiene is the key to keeping your gums and teeth healthy. Having a good dentist helps, too. When you're looking for a new dentist, you may have questions about who you can see and if they accept your insurance. You may also have questions about covered services or oral health. Whether you're in the CONUS or OCONUS service area the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) is committed to helping you find the right dentist and answering your questions.

The following is a blend of some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about TDP coverage and oral health:

Question: Can I visit any dentist?

Answer: Yes. As a TDP enrollee, you may visit any dentist. But, by visiting a network dentist, you could experience much lower out-of-pocket costs. You won't have to pay more than your cost-share

A percentage of the total cost of a covered health care service that you pay. for covered services. Dentists who haven't signed a contract with United Concordia Companies, Inc. are non-network dentists. You can see non-network dentists, but you could pay more out of pocket and may have to file your own claims. To find a TDP dentist near you, you can use the Find a Dentist Tool. Check out the TRICARE Dental Program Handbook to learn more about network and non-network dentists.

Question: As communities reopen in response to COVID-19, when should I resume my dental appointments?

Answer: Talk to your dentist and follow state and local guidelines. Dental offices are following new infection control and social distancing practices recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These practices are in place to protect you and dental staff during appointments. You can learn more about COVID-19 and dental coverage by going to the TDP website. You can also visit the TRICARE Coronavirus FAQs page (https://tricare.mil/covid19faqs).

Question: When should I get a new toothbrush?

Answer: The ADA (https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/toothbrushes) recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles look worn out. If you're recovering from a cold, be sure to replace your toothbrush so you don't risk getting sick again. Want more helpful toothbrush tips? Visit the ADA website (https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/toothbrushes).

Question: Is my dentist required to know what TDP covers?

Answer: No. It's your responsibility to know your benefits and out-of-pocket expenses before you approve or receive treatment. If you're unsure of your covered benefits, you can download the TRICARE Dental Program Handbook (https://www.tricare.mil/publications) or see a complete list by logging in to My Account (https://www.uccitdp.com/dtwdws/member/article.xhtml?content=member-my-account-info) on the TDP website.

Question: How long must I remain enrolled in TDP?

Answer: Once you enroll in TDP (https://www.uccitdp.com/dtwdws/member/article.xhtml?content=member-ways-to-enroll), you agree to remain enrolled for a minimum of 12 months. After you complete the initial 12-month enrollment period, coverage will continue on a month-to-month basis.

Question: Are anesthesia services a covered benefit?

Answer: Yes, under certain conditions. Anesthesia is covered if it's being provided with a definitive service that's covered under TDP. Your anesthesia must be medically or dentally necessary for persons with certain disabilities, uncontrollable patients, or for justifiable medical or dental conditions. Your dentist should submit a report documenting why anesthesia was needed.

You can find more answers to questions about TDP and your dental benefits, by going to the TDP FAQs page (https://www.uccitdp.com/dtwdws/member/article.xhtml?content=member-faqs). Looking to catch up on the latest dental news? If so, you can read issue 3 of the TRICARE Dental Program Health Matters Newsletter (https://www.tricare.mil/publications). In this issue, you'll learn about dental safety procedures in place to protect you from COVID-19, changes to your TDP annual maximum, tips to keep your gums and teeth healthy, and more. In case you missed it, be sure to check it out.

Sign up for email alerts (https://www.tricare.mil/subscriptions), and keep up with TRICARE and COVID-19 updates (https://www.tricare.mil/coronavirus).