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Dental, Vision, and Hearing Coverage

ACA plans only require pediatric dental coverage for children under 19. Adults must purchase dental coverage separately if they want it.

  • Preventive care: cleanings, exams, x-rays
  • Basic services: fillings, extractions
  • Major services: crowns, root canals, dentures, implants (varies by plan)
  • Keeps routine dental care affordable
  • Protects against high costs for major dental work
  • Encourages preventive care to avoid bigger problems later

ACA plans only require pediatric vision coverage for children under 19. Adults need a separate vision plan for routine eye care.

  • Annual eye exams
  • Glasses and contact lenses
  • Discounts or coverage for corrective surgery (varies by plan)
  • Reduces costs for eyewear and exams
  • Supports early detection of eye diseases
  • Helps adults maintain clear vision affordably

Hearing coverage is not included in ACA essential benefits for adults or children. Consumers can purchase standalone hearing plans.

  • Hearing exams
  • Hearing aids and fittings
  • Repairs and device maintenance
  • Some plans include cochlear implants or advanced technology
  • Makes hearing aids more affordable (often thousands without insurance)
  • Supports ongoing hearing health with exams and devices
  • Improves quality of life and communication

Coverage TypeACA PlanSupplemental Plan
DentalPediatric onlyAdult dental care, orthodontics (depends on plan), major services
VisionPediatric onlyAdult exams, glasses, contacts
HearingNot includedExams, hearing aids, device support

  • Shop for standalone dental, vision, and hearing plans through private insurers or licensed agents
  • Compare premiums, coverage limits, and provider networks