Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2026

This bill amends Medicare to cover dental and oral health services for the first time, affecting all current and future Medicare beneficiaries. It defines covered services to include routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns, dentures, and emergency care. For most individuals, federal payment for these services will gradually increase from 0% to 80% over an eight-year period, while low-income individuals eligible for prescription drug subsidies will receive 80% coverage immediately. The legislation also establishes frequency limits, such as two cleanings and exams per year and a five-year limit on full dentures, and requires the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force to include at least one oral health professional.