An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

There are emergency procedures in place in multiple states due to extreme weather. Learn More

Live in the West Region? There is now a referral approval waiver in place through March 31, 2025. Learn More. Also, you have until March 31 to set up  your payment info if you pay by EFT, credit card, or debit card. This is for TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Select, TYA, TRS, and TRR plans. If you miss this deadline, you will be disenrolled back to Jan. 1. Visit www.tricare.mil/west today.

News | Feb. 11, 2025

Learn How To Get Care From Dental Specialists With the TRICARE Dental Program

By TRICARE Communications

If you’re a TRICARE Dental Program member, you might need to see different types of dentists for specific tooth and mouth problems. Luckily, the TDP, administered by United Concordia, offers a wide range of specialists in CONUS and OCONUS locations.
 
To find a specialist near you, check out the Find a Dentist tool on United Concordia’s website.
 
“Before you go to a specialist, it’s a good idea to make sure the specialist’s services are covered,” said Douglas Elsesser, a program analyst with the Dental Program Section of the TRICARE Health Plan, at the Defense Health Agency. “A TDP network dentist can submit a pre-authorization request on your behalf to determine your out-of-pocket costs.”
 
Here’s an easy-to-understand guide to these dental specialties.

1. Endodontists

These dentists are experts at treating the inside of teeth. If you have severe tooth pain or need a root canal, an endodontist is the person to see. They use special tools to fix the soft inner part of your tooth, including the nerves and blood vessels.

2. Oral/maxillofacial surgeons

These specialists do surgery on your mouth, jaw, and face. They can remove wisdom teeth or other difficult-to-pull teeth. They also put in dental implants (artificial tooth roots) and can fix jaw problems or facial injuries. If you need any kind of surgery in your mouth area, you’ll likely see this type of dentist.

3. Orthodontists

Orthodontists straighten teeth and fix bite problems. They use braces, clear aligners, and other devices to move teeth into better positions. This can improve how your teeth look and work. If your teeth are crooked or your jaw doesn’t line up correctly, an orthodontist can help.

4. Pediatric dentists

These are dentists just for kids, from babies to teenagers. They take care of children’s teeth. Pediatric dentists know how to make dental visits less scary for kids. They’re good at spotting and fixing problems in growing mouths and can teach kids how to take care of their teeth.

5. Periodontists

Periodontists focus on gum health and the bones that support your teeth. If you have serious gum disease or loose teeth or need a deep cleaning under your gums, a periodontist can help. They can also do gum grafts (adding tissue to your gums) and place dental implants.

6. Prosthodontists

These dentists specialize in replacing missing teeth and restoring damaged ones. They make and fit things like crowns (caps for damaged teeth), bridges (fake teeth attached to your real teeth), dentures (removable fake teeth), and dental implants. If you’re missing teeth or have badly damaged teeth, a prosthodontist can help restore your smile.

7. Multi-specialist groups

Some dental offices have many different specialists working together. This can be helpful if you have a complex dental problem that needs more than one type of expert. For example, you might need an oral surgeon to remove a tooth and a prosthodontist to replace it.
 
The type of dental service you receive and the sponsor’s pay grade will affect your cost-share, as described in the TRICARE Dental Program Brochure. If you have questions about your dental benefits or need help understanding what’s covered, you can visit United Concordia’s website or call them at 844-653-4061 (CONUS) or 844-653-4060 (OCONUS).
 
Remember: Taking care of your teeth and gums is an important part of your overall health. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek help when you need it.
 
Woman and child on the TRICARE Dental Program website home page.

The TRICARE Dental Program Website Has a New Look!

News
Mar. 20, 2025

Have you checked out the new TRICARE Dental Program website yet? The updated layout makes searching your...
Read More
Man and woman take a picture outside.

Unlock Your Health With These TRICARE For Life B...

News
Mar. 20, 2025

As you age, it’s important to think about your future health needs. If you’re eligible for Medicare at age 65,...
Read More
Dentist holds dental equipment.

The Dentist Is In... 10 TRICARE Dental Program T...

News
Mar. 19, 2025

Whether you’re new to the TRICARE Dental Program or a long term TDP beneficiary, it’s important to brush up on...
Read More
Woman in medical scrubs holds up model teeth.

Take Charge of Your Oral Health

News
Mar. 18, 2025

Have you ever felt intimidated by the dentist? Dental related stress is common. The stress of going to the...
Read More
Man signs papers.

Unlock Your Health: Here’s How TRICARE and Other...

News
Mar. 18, 2025

TRICARE may not be the only health coverage you have. If you have health insurance through an employer, a...
Read More
Doctor talking with a patient.

How To Find and Choose Your TRICARE Provider

News
Mar. 13, 2025

If you’re looking for a provider, it’s important to understand the different types of TRICARE providers you...
Read More
Military doctor conducts a vitals check.

Get Preventive Health Services With TRICARE

News
Mar. 11, 2025

Your health is about more than just sick visits and medications—it’s also about making choices that keep you...
Read More
Patient Safety Awareness DHA graphic.

Explore Patient Safety Measures at Military Hosp...

News
Mar. 06, 2025

Do you get health care at a military hospital or clinic? When you need care, patient safety should never be a...
Read More

March 20, 2025

The TRICARE Dental Program Website Has a New Look!

Have you checked out the new TRICARE Dental Program website yet? The updated layout makes searching your important TDP benefits information simpler.

March 20, 2025

Unlock Your Health With These TRICARE For Life Basics

As you age, it’s important to think about your future health needs. If you’re eligible for Medicare at age 65, TRICARE has you covered if you take the appropriate steps. Once you actively have Medicare Part A and Part B, you’re automatically enrolled in TRICARE For Life. TFL coverage allows you to get the care you need while minimizing out-of-pocket expenses.

March 19, 2025

The Dentist Is In... 10 TRICARE Dental Program Terms You Should Know

Whether you’re new to the TRICARE Dental Program or a long term TDP beneficiary, it’s important to brush up on essential terms relating to your dental coverage. Understanding your TDP plan can help you make the most of your benefits.

March 18, 2025

Take Charge of Your Oral Health

Have you ever felt intimidated by the dentist? Dental related stress is common. The stress of going to the dentist often leads people to feel hesitant. If you’re feeling unsure at the dentist, then you may not ask any questions or express your discomfort with a procedure. However, taking charge of your oral health isn't just about brushing and flossing daily; it's about actively participating in your dental care journey.

March 18, 2025

Unlock Your Health: Here’s How TRICARE and Other Health Insurance Work Together

TRICARE may not be the only health coverage you have. If you have health insurance through an employer, a spouse’s plan, or a private insurer, it’s considered other health insurance, which can affect how TRICARE processes your claim. TRICARE and OHI work together to help cover your health care and services.

March 13, 2025

How To Find and Choose Your TRICARE Provider

If you’re looking for a provider, it’s important to understand the different types of TRICARE providers you can see. The type of provider you see can determine how much you pay for care and the process for filing claims.

March 11, 2025

Get Preventive Health Services With TRICARE

Your health is about more than just sick visits and medications—it’s also about making choices that keep you feeling your best. Getting routine preventive care can help you stay well and catch problems early. With preventive health services, TRICARE has you covered.

March 6, 2025

Explore Patient Safety Measures at Military Hospitals and Clinics

Do you get health care at a military hospital or clinic? When you need care, patient safety should never be a concern. You deserve to know how well your military hospital or clinic protects you and your family from preventable harm.

March 4, 2025

Unlock Your Health by Understanding Your TRICARE Explanation of Benefits

Your TRICARE explanation of benefits is an essential tool for understanding your health claims. An EOB is a statement from your health plan that details what action TRICARE has taken on your claims. Take a moment to understand your EOB, what it means, and what may be required on your part.

Feb. 26, 2025

Learn How TRICARE Covers Laboratory Services and Diagnostic Imaging

Laboratory services and diagnostic imaging are vital tools for maintaining your health. These tests can help you and your provider catch potential issues early, before they become serious problems. TRICARE covers many of these services, including some as part of your preventive health care benefit.