Dental Insurance for Military Retirees

Retiring from military service is an exciting time for veterans, but it also comes with a lot of changes, including changes in healthcare coverage. Dental care is an essential part of overall health, and dental insurance for military retirees is an important consideration. In this article, we will explore the dental insurance options available to military retirees and answer some frequently asked questions to help make the transition to civilian life a little easier.

What is Dental Insurance for Military Retirees?

Dental insurance for military retirees is a type of insurance that provides coverage for dental services. It is available to retired military personnel, including those who retire from active duty, the reserves, and the National Guard. Dental insurance for military retirees is designed to cover the cost of routine dental care, as well as more extensive procedures such as oral surgery or orthodontics.

The dental insurance options available to military retirees vary depending on factors such as location, service status, and length of service. However, all options provide coverage for routine dental care and offer additional benefits for more extensive procedures.

Types of Dental Insurance for Military Retirees

There are two primary options for dental insurance for military retirees: the Tricare Retiree Dental Program (TRDP) and the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP).

Tricare Retiree Dental Program (TRDP)

The Tricare Retiree Dental Program (TRDP) is a standalone dental insurance plan available to military retirees and their eligible family members. It covers a wide range of dental services, including routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, and other services, as well as more extensive procedures such as crowns, bridges, and root canals.

The TRDP has several plan options that provide varying levels of coverage and cost. The most comprehensive plan, the High Option Plan, covers up to $1,500 in dental services per person per year, while the Basic Plan covers up to $1,000 in dental services per person per year. Enrollment in the TRDP is open to all eligible military retirees and their family members, regardless of their length of service or service status.

Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP)

The Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) is a dental insurance program available to retired federal employees, including military retirees. It is also available to eligible family members. The FEDVIP offers a range of dental plans from several insurance providers, providing more choice and flexibility than the TRDP.

The FEDVIP dental plans offer varying levels of coverage and cost, with the most comprehensive plans covering up to $5,000 in dental services per person per year. Enrollment in the FEDVIP is open to all eligible retired federal employees and their family members, regardless of their length of service or service status.

FAQs

Q: When can I enroll in dental insurance for military retirees?

A: Eligible military retirees and their family members can enroll in dental insurance for military retirees at any time during the year, but there are specific enrollment periods for each plan. The TRDP has an annual open enrollment period from mid-November to mid-December, while the FEDVIP has an annual open enrollment period from mid-November to mid-December.

Q: Can I enroll in both the TRDP and FEDVIP?

A: Yes, eligible military retirees and their family members can enroll in both the TRDP and FEDVIP. However, it is important to note that the TRDP and FEDVIP do not coordinate benefits, meaning that enrollees will need to choose which plan to use for each dental service.

Q: Are there any out-of-pocket costs for dental insurance for military retirees?

A: Yes, both the TRDP and FEDVIP have out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles, co-payments, and annual maximums. These costs vary depending on the plan and the services received.

Q: Can I keep my current dentist with dental insurance for military retirees?

A: Yes, both the TRDP and FEDVIP allow enrollees to choose their own dentist. However, using an in-network provider can result in lower out-of-pocket costs.

Q: What happens if I move to a new location?

A: Both the TRDP and FEDVIP have nationwide coverage, meaning that enrollees can continue to receive dental care no matter where they live or travel. However, changing locations may affect which providers are available in-network, which can affect out-of-pocket costs.

Conclusion

Dental care is an essential part of overall health, and dental insurance for military retirees is an important consideration for veterans making the transition to civilian life. The Tricare Retiree Dental Program (TRDP) and Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) offer comprehensive dental coverage for military retirees and their eligible family members, providing peace of mind and protection against unexpected dental expenses. By understanding the options available and asking the right questions, military retirees can find the dental insurance plan that best meets their needs and budget.