Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2023

HR 4146, the Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2023, would add dental and oral health services to Medicare Part B coverage starting January 1, 2025. It covers preventive care (like cleanings and exams), basic services (fillings, extractions), major services (crowns, dentures), and emergency care, with payments phasing in from 0% in the first year to 80% by year eight. The bill includes limits, such as capping routine cleanings at two per year and dentures at one full set every five years, while giving the Secretary authority to apply additional restrictions or modify coverage based on U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations. This change directly affects Medicare beneficiaries aged 65+ who currently lack dental coverage under the program.