Veterans Affairs Dental Insurance

The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) to Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program and CHAMPVA beneficiaries.  VADIP allows eligible participants the opportunity to purchase dental insurance at a reduced cost.  Veterans can purchase dental insurance through MetLife and Delta Dental at a reduced cost.

*Update: The VADIP program has been extended through Dec. 31, 2021 due to the The Department of Veterans Affairs Dental Insurance Reauthorization Act of 2016.

Photo by Cpl. Michael Lockett

Multiple plan options will allow participants to select a plan that provides benefits and premiums that meet their dental needs and budget. The offered plans vary and may include diagnostic, preventative, surgical, emergency and endodontic/restorative treatment.  Participants are responsible for all premiums, which range from about $10 to $60 per month for individual plans. Each participant will pay a fixed monthly premium for coverage, in addition to any co-payments required by his or her plan.

Free dental services will continue for veterans with “service connected” dental problems.

Eligible veterans and CAMPVA participants interested in participating in VADIP may apply by mail, online or by phone. For details, visit the VA page on the Dental Insurance Program.

VADIP plans cover many common dental procedures

These may include:

• Diagnostic services
• Preventive dental care
• Root canals and other services to manage oral health problems and restore function (called endodontic or restorative services)
• Dental surgery
• Emergency dental care

The costs for your coverage will depend on the insurance company and plan you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the program?
Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program and CHAMPVA program beneficiaries are eligible to participate in VADIP.

Does the program affect VA’s existing dental coverage?
Participation in VADIP will not affect Veterans’ eligibility for VA dental services and treatment.

Can my family participate in VADIP?
Dependents of Veterans, except those eligible under CHAMPVA, are not eligible for VADIP; however, separate coverage options may be offered dependents by the insurance carrier.

What services are offered?
Multiple plan options will allow participants to select a plan that provides benefits and premiums that meet their dental needs and budget. The offered plans vary and may include diagnostic, preventative, surgical, emergency and endodontic/restorative treatment.

Is there a mandatory participation period?
The initial participation period will be at least 12 calendar months. Afterward, beneficiaries can renew their participation for another 12-month period or be covered month-to-month, as long as the participant remains eligible for coverage and VA continues VADIP.