As Medicare open enrollment began nationwide on October 15, hundreds of thousands of seniors in New Jersey face the annual challenge of choosing the right coverage. While most focus on medical and prescription plans, dental care remains an often-overlooked but vital part of overall health.
Many Medicare participants are unaware that the program does not cover routine preventive dental services. Medicare benefits apply only to surgical dental procedures performed in hospitals, leaving seniors to pay out-of-pocket or seek supplemental plans for routine care.
Unfortunately, many low-cost Medicare dental supplements offer limited coverage and access to inexperienced providers.
“Seniors face many challenges in this situation, so we offer our dental discount plan,” said Dr. Arash Vahid of AV Dental Associates. “Our goal is to make quality, affordable dental care accessible, with personalized attention that supports long-term oral health.”
Poor oral health can have serious effects on seniors’ overall well-being. According to national data:
Only 29% of seniors have dental coverage.
One in five adults aged 65 or older have no natural teeth, and complete tooth loss doubles by age 75.
People with 20 or more teeth at age 70 are more likely to live longer.
About 70% of adults over 65 have advanced periodontitis, a leading cause of tooth loss that has been linked to heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes.
Dental discount plans, which have been available for more than two decades, remain underused. AV Dental Associates’ plan includes two exams and cleanings per year at a fixed monthly cost, immediate benefits with no waiting period, and a 20% discount on all periodontal, restorative, endodontic, oral surgery, and orthodontic treatments.
With Medicare open enrollment running from October 15 through December 7, 2025, this is an ideal time for seniors to review their dental coverage, drop ineffective supplements, and consider more affordable alternatives.