MILITARY & VA DENTAL BENEFITS: HOW TO USE YOUR COVERAGE

Navigating the VA healthcare system can be challenging, as it’s complex in the benefits available, process, qualifications for accessing coverage, and much more. VA dental benefits can be especially intimidating as they are available but operate a bit differently. Military dental benefits are available to both Veterans and active duty members. Learn who qualifies, which coverage is available, how to apply, how to find a participating provider, and more.

Who Qualifies for VA Dental Benefits?

Getting VA dental benefits for the military is a bit trickier than other forms of healthcare. Not everyone qualifies, but some Vets have access depending on the following:

• Your military history.
• Your current health condition/living situation.

Military dental benefits are provided based on the class you fall under with the VA. You can determine which benefits class your dental coverage applies to by looking at a number of scenarios:

*Receiving payments at the 100% disabling rate for a temporary rating doesn’t qualify.

**If you received a dental award letter from the VBA with a date before 1955 declaring non-compensable dental conditions, you don’t qualify for Class II benefits due to Public Law 83.

***To determine whether or not your tooth or teeth condition(s) have a dental trauma rating, additional forms and inquiries may be needed.

****There are many specifics that will be at the discretion of your VA dental care provider. This includes additional criteria that may qualify you for care, including being fully independent in your everyday life and factors involving getting and maintaining employment.

As you can see, military dental benefits operate a bit differently. For example, VA dental benefits for 100 disabled persons will depend on the class rather than just your assigned rating.

To understand more about the various dental classes used by the VA, you can learn the differences by reading the Veterans Health Administration Dental Program Handbook.

How to Apply for VA Dental Benefits

Remember, you apply for VA dental benefits the same way you do for other VA healthcare benefits.

Applying for VA healthcare means submitting a 10-10EZ form to Health Eligibility Center PO Box 5207 Janesville, WI 53547-5207.

If you don’t qualify for VA dental care benefits under the scenarios mentioned above, you still have options.

VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)

Veterans can purchase dental coverage through the VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) at a reduced premium, but you must meet at least one of the following criteria to qualify:

• You are a part of VA healthcare.
• You are enrolled in the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA).

VADIP started as a temporary program but has expanded to become a permanent solution for military families covering dental care. This includes the following services:

• Dental surgery
• Diagnostics and preventative care
• Emergency dental care
• Root canals and endodontic or restorative services

Keep in mind the services you’re covered for will depend on the plan you enroll in.

What Military Dental Benefits Are Available for Active Duty?

The TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) is one of the most popular plans for active duty service members who are looking to acquire military dental benefits. The TDP is a voluntary dental plan. You can enroll in TRICARE if you meet the following requirements:

• Are a family member of an active duty service member.
• Are a family member of a National Guard/Reserve member.
• You are a National Guard/Reserve member who isn’t on active duty.
• Have coverage by the Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP).

The Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP)

If you are an active duty service member, you can qualify to receive dental care at most military dental clinics. Service members are offered the option to participate in the Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP). For one to qualify they can either:

• Reside in the US or
• Reside outside of the US

The ADDP gives active duty service members the opportunity to receive civilian dental care. Additionally, these groups are eligible for the program:

• Army
• Marine Corps
• Air Force
• Navy
• Space Force
• Coast Guard
• Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service
• Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

If you are assigned to a CONUS military dental clinic, they will determine if you require care under the ADDP. They will also discuss your eligibility and coverage with you.

Finding an In-Network Provider

Once you have secured your military dental benefits, finding the right in-network provider is your next step.

In-network dental providers are contracted with your dental insurance providing services at predetermined rates.

Choosing an in-network dentist ensures you receive the most affordable rates for your dental care.

Additionally, your dental office will handle the claim filing process on your behalf, helping you save on out-of-pocket expenses and streamlining your visit.

For most plans, you simply look them up on their website to access their in-network provider finder, or you can work with one of the larger in-network providers, like Aspen Dental, and simplify the problem.

To find an in-network provider covered by your benefits, check out Aspen Dental's Dentist Near You page to choose from over 1,100 offices throughout the United States.

Dental Care for Military Families Across the U.S.

Getting the right dental care for military families may feel challenging, but resources and benefits are available.

It also helps to work with a healthcare team that specializes in understanding the unique needs of the military community. That’s exactly why patients are smiling about Aspen Dental.

The staff at Aspen Dental is kind, professional, and knowledgeable about military dental benefits to help your family receive the care they need without worrying about the cost.

Aspen Dental is part of the TRICARE Dental Program, which even offers military spouse dental benefits to cover important dental care services including:

• Clear aligners
• Dental bridges/crowns
• Dental implants
• Dentures
• Emergency dental care
• Periodontal disease treatment
• Root canal
• Teeth whitening
• Tooth extraction
• Tooth filling
• And much more

Providing care for families stationed at military bases throughout the United States, Aspen Dental has 1,100 locations across the U.S.to better serve you.

Best of all, if you don't qualify or choose not to sign up for any of these dental plan options, Aspen Dental also offers the Aspen Dental Savings Plan for those without insurance.

For only $39 a year, you will receive free exams and x-rays and access to discounts that range from 10% - 30% off of your dental care.

Schedule an appointment today and see the difference Aspen Dental can make in your life.

Sources:

VA dental care, VA. Accessed August 2024. https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/

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• Navigating the Legalities of Joining the Military With HIV
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• 5 Fun Things to Do Near Fort Sam Houston

This article is the result of a paid collaboration with Aspen Dental.