Medicare doesn’t cover everything, and understanding these gaps helps you plan for healthcare costs. Routine dental care, including cleanings, fillings, and dentures, isn’t covered by Original Medicare, though some procedures required before other medical treatments may be exceptions. Vision care like eye exams for glasses and eyewear itself aren’t included, but Medicare does cover certain eye conditions and diseases. Hearing exams and hearing aids remain uncovered expenses you’ll need to budget for separately.
Cosmetic surgery is excluded unless it improves bodily function or repairs damage from illness or injury. Most alternative medicine treatments aren’t covered, though Medicare Part B now covers acupuncture for chronic low back pain with up to 12 visits in 90 days. Routine foot care like nail trimming isn’t covered unless you have diabetes or other specific conditions affecting your feet.
Long-term custodial care, which includes help with daily activities like bathing and dressing, isn’t covered whether at home or in a facility.