Does TRICARE Cover Dental? What You Need to Know
TRICARE medical plans do not cover routine dental care. Dental coverage is separate. Active duty service members receive dental care through the Active Duty Dental Program. Active duty family members and National Guard/Reserve members can enroll in the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP). Retirees can enroll in FEDVIP. Some veterans qualify for VA dental care.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | Dental insurance coverage for eligible military beneficiaries |
| Eligibility | Varies by program: active duty, family members, Guard/Reserve, retirees, veterans |
| Application | TRICARE Dental Program via milConnect; FEDVIP via BENEFEDS.gov; VA dental via VA health enrollment |
| Processing Time | Immediate to 2 weeks for enrollment confirmation |
| Official Agency | Defense Health Agency (DHA); Office of Personnel Management (OPM); Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) |
| Required Forms | TDP Enrollment/Change Authorization Form; FEDVIP enrollment through BENEFEDS |
| Updated For | 2026 TDP premiums and 2026 FEDVIP plan year |
Does TRICARE Cover Dental? The Short Answer
No. TRICARE medical plans do not cover routine dental care. Dental is a separate benefit with its own programs, enrollment processes, and costs. This is one of the most common sources of confusion for military families and retirees.
Your TRICARE medical plan may cover dental care only in limited circumstances—specifically when dental treatment is medically necessary due to an injury or medical condition. This is called adjunctive dental care, and it requires pre-authorization unless it is a medical emergency.
For routine cleanings, fillings, crowns, and other standard dental services, you need separate dental coverage. The program you use depends on your military status.
The Three Main Dental Coverage Paths
There are three primary dental coverage programs for the military community. Each serves a different population.
| Program | Who It Serves | Administrator | Enrollment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP) | Active duty service members | United Concordia | Automatic |
| TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) | Active duty family members, National Guard/Reserve, their families | United Concordia | Voluntary |
| FEDVIP | Retirees, their families, survivors | Multiple carriers (Delta Dental, MetLife, etc.) | Voluntary |
| VA Dental Care | Eligible veterans | VA | Automatic based on eligibility class |
TRICARE Dental Program (TDP): For Families and Guard/Reserve
The TRICARE Dental Program is a voluntary dental plan for active duty family members and National Guard/Reserve members (and their families). It is not available to active duty service members or retirees.
United Concordia administers the TDP benefit. The plan provides comprehensive coverage for most dental services, including preventive care, fillings, crowns, oral surgery, and orthodontics for eligible dependents up to age 23.
TDP Eligibility
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityYou can enroll in the TDP if you are:
A family member of an active duty service member
A family member of a National Guard or Reserve member
A National Guard or Reserve member who isn’t on active duty orders for more than 30 days
Not covered by the Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP)
Active duty service members themselves are not eligible for TDP. They receive dental care through the Active Duty Dental Program.
TDP 2026 Monthly Premiums
TDP premiums depend on the sponsor’s military status and pay grade. Rates are effective March 1, 2026 through February 28, 2027.
| Sponsor Status | Pay Grade | Sponsor Only | One Family Member | Two Family Members | Three+ Family Members |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active Duty | E-4 and below | N/A | $8.79 | $22.85 | $29.30 |
| Active Duty | E-5 and above | N/A | $11.72 | $22.85 | $29.30 |
| Selected Reserve | E-4 and below | $8.79 | $22.85 | $29.30 | $29.30 |
| Selected Reserve | E-5 and above | $11.72 | $22.85 | $29.30 | $29.30 |
For active duty family members, the government pays 60% of the TDP premium, and the family pays 40%. National Guard and Reserve members pay the full premium.
TDP Covered Services
The TDP covers a wide range of dental services:
Diagnostic and preventive: Exams, cleanings, X-rays, sealants
Basic restorative: Fillings, stainless steel crowns for primary teeth
Oral surgery: Extractions, surgical procedures
Endodontics: Root canals
Periodontics: Gum treatment
Prosthodontics: Crowns, bridges, dentures, implants
Orthodontics: Braces and retainers for eligible dependents up to age 23
For most services, TDP pays 100% for preventive and diagnostic care, 80% for basic restorative, and 50% for major services like crowns and implants.
How to Enroll in TDP
You can enroll in the TDP online through milConnect, by phone, or by mail.
Online: Log in to milConnect, select “Benefits,” then “Beneficiary Web Enrollment,” and select the “Dental Enrollments” tab.
Phone: CONUS: 844-653-4061 | OCONUS toll-free: 844-653-4060
Mail: Download the TRICARE Dental Program Enrollment/Change Authorization Form and mail it with your first monthly premium to United Concordia.
Enrollment requires a minimum 12-month commitment. You can enroll all family members at the same time.
FEDVIP: Dental Coverage for Retirees
Retirees and their families are not eligible for the TRICARE Dental Program. Instead, they can enroll in the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). FEDVIP is a voluntary, premium-based dental insurance program administered by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
The TRICARE Retiree Dental Program (TRDP) no longer exists. It was replaced by FEDVIP. If you are a retiree seeking dental coverage, FEDVIP is your path.
FEDVIP Eligibility
You are eligible for FEDVIP dental coverage if you are:
A retired uniformed service member entitled to retirement pay
A retired Reserve member under age 60 (Gray Area Retiree)
A family member of a retired service member
A survivor of a deceased service member
A Medal of Honor recipient enrolled in TRICARE
You must be no longer eligible for the TRICARE Dental Program to enroll in FEDVIP dental coverage.
FEDVIP Enrollment Period
You can enroll in FEDVIP during the annual Federal Benefits Open Season, which runs from November 10 through midnight EST on December 8, 2025, for the 2026 plan year. Coverage begins January 1, 2026.
You can also enroll within 60 days of a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), such as marriage, birth, adoption, or retirement.
FEDVIP Plan Options and Costs
FEDVIP offers multiple plan options from several dental carriers, including Delta Dental, MetLife, Blue Cross Blue Shield, GEHA, and United Concordia. Each carrier offers at least two plan levels: Standard and High.
FEDVIP dental plan costs vary by carrier and plan level. For example, Delta Dental’s 2026 plans offer:
| Service Category | Standard Plan (In-Network) | High Plan (In-Network) |
|---|---|---|
| Class A: Cleanings, X-rays, exams | Plan pays 100% | Plan pays 100% |
| Class B: Fillings, extractions | Plan pays 55% | Plan pays 70% |
| Class C: Crowns, bridges, root canals | Plan pays 35% | Plan pays 50% |
| Class D: Orthodontics | Plan pays 50% | Plan pays 50% |
There are no waiting periods for any covered services, including orthodontics.
How to Enroll in FEDVIP
You must use BENEFEDS.gov to enroll or change enrollment in a FEDVIP plan. Enroll online at BENEFEDS.gov or call 877-888-3337 (TTY 711). International: 1-571-730-5942.
VA Dental Benefits: For Eligible Veterans
The VA provides dental care to certain veterans based on their disability status, service history, and other factors. VA dental care is not available to all veterans—only about 15% of veterans enrolled in VA health care qualify for VA dental services.
The VA places veterans into benefits classes that determine what dental care they can receive.
| VA Class | Who Qualifies | Dental Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Class I | Service-connected dental disability or condition for which you receive compensation | Any needed dental care |
| Class IIC | Former prisoner of war | Any needed dental care |
| Class IV | 100% service-connected disability rating, or TDIU | Any needed dental care |
| Class II | Served 90+ days during Persian Gulf War era | One-time dental care (with conditions) |
| Class IIA | Service-connected noncompensable dental condition from combat wounds | Dental care to maintain functioning dentition |
| Class III | Dental condition linked to service-connected health condition | Dental care to treat the oral condition making the health condition worse |
| Class V | Active in Chapter 31 VR&E program | Dental care needed for employment goals |
For veterans who do not qualify for free VA dental care, the VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) offers discounted private dental insurance through Delta Dental and MetLife. VADIP is available to veterans enrolled in VA health care and CHAMPVA beneficiaries.
Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP)
Active duty service members receive dental care through the Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP), administered by United Concordia. This is not a voluntary enrollment program—it is automatic for all active duty service members.
Most dental care is provided at military dental clinics. When military dental clinic care is not available, active duty service members receive civilian dental care through the ADDP.
Active duty service members do not pay premiums or cost-shares for dental care. The dental care is provided as part of their active duty benefits.
National Guard and Reserve Dental Coverage
National Guard and Reserve members have dental coverage that changes based on activation status.
When Not Activated
You and your family can enroll in the TRICARE Dental Program. You can enroll at any time, but you must enroll for at least 12 months. You pay monthly premiums based on your military status. Sponsors and family members enroll separately.
When Activated
When called to active duty for more than 30 consecutive days, you receive active duty dental care. This means you get most dental care from a military dental clinic or through the Active Duty Dental Program.
If you’re enrolled in the TDP when called to active duty, your coverage automatically goes on hold. You won’t have to pay premiums while on active duty. Your family’s TDP enrollment continues with lower monthly premiums.
When Deactivated
If you qualify for the Transitional Assistance Management Program (TAMP), you still have active duty dental benefits during the 180-day TAMP period. When TAMP ends, you may enroll in the TDP. If you were enrolled before going on active duty, your coverage automatically resumes. If you don’t qualify for TAMP, you may enroll in the TDP.
Dental Coverage Comparison: All Programs at a Glance
| Program | Who Qualifies | Monthly Premium | Enrollment | Key Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active Duty Dental Program (ADDP) | Active duty service members | $0 | Automatic | Comprehensive |
| TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) | Active duty family members, Guard/Reserve, their families | $8.79–$29.30 (ADFMs) | Voluntary | Preventive, basic, major, ortho |
| FEDVIP | Retirees, their families, survivors | Varies by plan/carrier | Voluntary (Open Season or QLE) | Preventive, basic, major, ortho |
| VA Dental Care | Eligible veterans (Class I, IIC, IV, etc.) | $0 | Automatic based on class | Varies by class |
| VADIP | Veterans enrolled in VA health care, CHAMPVA | From $18.87/month | Voluntary | Discounted private insurance |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Assuming TRICARE medical covers dental | Unpaid dental bills | Enroll in a separate dental plan |
| Missing the TDP enrollment deadline | No dental coverage | Enroll during a qualifying life event or open enrollment |
| Not enrolling in FEDVIP during Open Season | Wait another year | Mark your calendar for Nov 10–Dec 8 |
| Assuming VA dental care is automatic | Denied dental care | Check your VA dental class eligibility |
| Using the wrong program for your status | Claim denials | Verify which program matches your military status |
| Not checking if your dentist is in-network | Higher out-of-pocket costs | Use the network dentist finder |
Common Questions
Does TRICARE cover dental?
No. TRICARE medical plans do not cover routine dental care. Dental coverage is separate. Your TRICARE medical plan may cover dental care only when it is medically necessary due to an injury or medical condition, called adjunctive dental care. For routine dental care, you need a separate dental plan.
What dental coverage do active duty family members have?
Active duty family members can enroll in the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP). Premiums range from $8.79 to $29.30 per month depending on the sponsor’s pay grade and number of family members enrolled. The government pays 60% of the premium for active duty family members.
What dental coverage do military retirees have?
Retirees can enroll in the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). FEDVIP offers multiple plan options from carriers like Delta Dental, MetLife, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Enrollment is during the Federal Benefits Open Season (Nov 10–Dec 8) or a Qualifying Life Event.
Does the VA cover dental care?
The VA provides dental care to certain veterans based on their disability status, service history, and other factors. Veterans with a service-connected dental disability, 100% disability rating, former POW status, or other qualifying conditions may receive free VA dental care. About 15% of veterans enrolled in VA health care qualify.
What is VADIP?
VADIP is the VA Dental Insurance Program. It offers discounted private dental insurance to veterans enrolled in VA health care and CHAMPVA beneficiaries who do not qualify for free VA dental care. VADIP is offered through Delta Dental and MetLife.
Can I have both TRICARE medical and dental coverage?
Yes. TRICARE medical coverage and dental coverage are separate. You can have a TRICARE health plan and a separate dental plan (TDP or FEDVIP) at the same time.
How do I enroll in the TRICARE Dental Program?
You can enroll online through milConnect, by phone at 844-653-4061, or by mail. You must enroll for at least 12 months. Active duty family members, National Guard/Reserve members, and their families are eligible.
What is the difference between TDP and FEDVIP?
TDP is for active duty family members and National Guard/Reserve members and their families. FEDVIP is for retirees, their families, and survivors. Retirees are not eligible for TDP; they must use FEDVIP for dental coverage.
Does TRICARE cover braces?
The TDP covers orthodontic services for eligible dependents up to age 23. FEDVIP plans also cover orthodontics with no waiting periods. Coverage levels vary by plan and carrier.
What happens to my dental coverage when I retire?
When you retire from active duty, you are no longer eligible for the TRICARE Dental Program. You can enroll in FEDVIP during the Federal Benefits Open Season or within 60 days of your retirement (a Qualifying Life Event).
Key Takeaways
TRICARE medical plans do not cover routine dental care. Dental coverage is separate.
Active duty service members receive dental care through the Active Duty Dental Program at no cost.
Active duty family members and National Guard/Reserve members can enroll in the TRICARE Dental Program (TDP), with premiums from $8.79 to $29.30 per month.
Retirees are not eligible for TDP. They can enroll in FEDVIP during Open Season (Nov 10–Dec 8) or a Qualifying Life Event.
The VA provides free dental care to certain veterans based on disability status, service history, and other factors. About 15% of veterans qualify.
VADIP offers discounted private dental insurance for veterans who don’t qualify for free VA dental care.
TRICARE medical plans may cover dental care only when it is medically necessary due to injury or medical condition (adjunctive dental care).
National Guard and Reserve members have different dental coverage depending on activation status.
FEDVIP has no waiting periods for covered services, including orthodontics.
Check your eligibility before assuming you have dental coverage—using the wrong program can result in denied claims.
Official Resources
TRICARE Dental Program: https://tricare.mil/CoveredServices/Dental/TDP
TRICARE Dental Options: https://tricare.mil/Plans/DentalPlans
Active Duty Dental Program: https://tricare.mil/CoveredServices/Dental/ADDental
FEDVIP Enrollment: https://www.benefeds.gov/
VA Dental Care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/
VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP): https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/
United Concordia TDP: https://www.uccitdp.com/
milConnect: https://milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/
Office of Personnel Management FEDVIP: https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/dental-vision/
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