If you’re wondering what dentures covered by Delta Dental for seniors really look like, let’s clear up the mystery. More than 1 in 4 seniors haven’t visited a dentist in five years, so having clear denture benefits can make a big difference. In this guide, you’ll discover how your Delta Dental plan tackles dentures, estimate your out-of-pocket costs, pick the right appliance, and find an in-network dentist. Grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in.
Understand denture coverage
Ever feel lost in plan details?
What dentures are
Dentures are removable dental appliances made of acrylic, sometimes with porcelain or metal components. They restore missing or damaged teeth to improve your smile, chewing ability, and speech.
You have two main styles:
- Complete dentures, which replace all teeth on an arch
- Partial dentures, which fill gaps and attach to remaining teeth
Delta Dental plan types
Delta Dental offers several plan designs for adults:
- Delta Dental PPO lets you choose any dentist, but in-network providers keep your share lower
- DeltaCare USA is a network plan with set copays, often between $350 and $600 per arch
- Delta Dental Premier gives you a broader dentist network, with coverage levels similar to PPO
Each plan covers dentures as a major service after you meet your deductible. Check your summary of benefits for specific coinsurance rates and copay amounts.
Coverage details to note
Before you schedule a denture appointment, review these key items:
- Annual maximums, which often range from $1,000 to $2,000
- Any waiting periods for major services—your plan booklet will list exact terms
- Separate limits on replacement or relining frequency
For full coverage specifics on both upper and lower sets, see delta dental full upper and lower dentures coverage.
Calculate your out-of-pocket
Want to know what you’ll actually pay?
Deductibles and coinsurance
Most Delta Dental plans apply a deductible to major services like dentures. Once you meet that deductible, your coinsurance kicks in—often 50% of the allowed cost. You pay the remaining share. Be sure to confirm whether your deductible is per person or per family.
Typical denture costs
Here’s a ballpark table for removable dentures:
| Procedure | Cost range ($) |
|---|---|
| Lower removable denture | 1,050 – 2,300 |
| Upper removable denture | 1,100 – 2,500 |
| Implant-supported denture | Varies widely |
Most Delta Dental PPO plans cover 50% of these costs after the deductible. If you’re on DeltaCare USA, expect fixed copays in the $350–$600 per arch range.
Tax-free accounts overview
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can cover dentures even if your dental plan doesn’t. Contributions are pre-tax, and withdrawals for qualified expenses like dentures are tax-free. Check your account deadlines so you don’t lose unused funds.
Choose denture options
Not sure which appliance suits you best?
Partial vs full dentures
Partial dentures clip onto your remaining teeth to fill in gaps, while full dentures replace an entire arch. Partials tend to cost less and preserve natural teeth. Full sets give you a complete smile makeover but usually come with higher fees.
Immediate vs conventional
Immediate dentures go in on the same day your natural teeth are removed. You stay tooth-in-place, but gums will shrink and you may need more relines. Conventional dentures are custom-made after your tissues heal—typically six to eight weeks later—for a snugger fit.
Implant-supported dentures
Implant-supported dentures anchor to titanium posts in your jaw for superior stability. Basic denture coverage rarely includes implant costs. Delta Dental offers implant benefits under certain plans or riders—ask your plan representative for details. For more on this, see delta dental dental implant coverage for seniors.
Locate a provider
Ready to find a dentist near you?
In-network dentists
Delta Dental has the largest dentist network in the U.S., so you’ll likely find a nearby provider. Staying in-network lowers your fees and speeds up claims. Call your plan or use the online directory before booking.
Cost estimator tool
Delta Dental’s Dental Care Cost Estimator shows estimated fee ranges for dentures and related care. Enter basic info, select your plan, and you’ll see ballpark costs—no surprises at the chair.
Getting a second opinion
If you’re unsure about a treatment plan, ask your dentist for a written outline of recommended services and fees. Taking that to another in-network office can give you peace of mind before moving forward.
Maintain your dentures
Good care helps your appliances last
Daily cleaning tips
- Rinse dentures under cool water after meals
- Brush gently with a soft denture brush and nonabrasive cleaner
- Soak overnight in a denture solution to remove stains and bacteria
Storage and handling
When you’re not wearing them, keep dentures submerged in water or cleaning solution to prevent warping. Handle them over a folded towel or sink filled with water—dropping them on a hard surface can cause cracks.
Adjustments and repairs
Over time, your gums and bones change shape. Most Delta Dental plans allow new dentures every 5 to 7 years if fit becomes an issue. Lining and minor repairs may also be covered—confirm your benefits before scheduling.
Optimize your benefits
Want to squeeze every dollar from your plan?
Replacement frequency guidelines
Review how often you can get new dentures under your plan’s major services limit. Scheduling replacements sooner than allowed could leave you with full out-of-pocket costs.
Pre-authorization tips
Major procedures often need pre-approval. Have your dentist submit the proposed treatment plan to Delta Dental. You’ll receive a breakdown of covered amounts, which helps you budget before the first appointment.
Filing claims successfully
- Confirm claim forms include patient info, dentist NPI number, and correct CDT codes for dentures
- Keep copies of all paperwork and receipts
- Follow up within 30 days if reimbursement seems delayed
For coverage on crowns, bridges, and other restorative work, see our restorative dentistry covered by delta dental guide.
Know plan exclusions
It helps to know what’s not covered
Implant-related limitations
Basic denture benefits often exclude implant fees, bone grafts, and sinus lifts. If you need implant-supported dentures, verify whether your plan offers optional implant coverage riders.
Lab and processing fees
Some plans cover only the appliance itself, not lab costs for custom shades or special materials. Ask your dentist for an itemized estimate so you know which lab fees you’ll handle yourself.
Frequency restrictions
Relines, rebases, and replacements have set timelines—often every 5 to 7 years. Getting work done outside those windows can mean full out-of-pocket charges.
Plan your next steps
Feeling ready to smile again?
Review your plan
Log in to your Delta Dental member portal or pull out your benefit booklet. Locate your deductible, coinsurance rates, annual maximum, and any waiting periods that apply to dentures.
Talk to your dentist
Share your plan details with your dentist’s office. Confirm they’re in-network, ask for a pre-authorization, and get an itemized quote. If you’re planning a full-arch restoration, check out full mouth reconstruction delta dental coverage.
Share your experience
Once you’ve navigated the process and gotten your new dentures, leave a comment below. Your tips could help another senior take their first confident smile in years.
