TN Health OptionsWhat medical plans include
Dental and vision care for children are essential health benefits under the ACA, so children's dental coverage is available with Marketplace coverage, either built into a health plan or as a separate dental plan. Adult dental and vision coverage isn't required, and most medical plans don't include it.
Stand-alone dental plans
On HealthCare.gov you can add a separate dental plan when you pick a health plan. 42,966 Tennesseans picked a Marketplace dental plan for 2026 (CMS). You can't use a premium tax credit on a separate adult dental plan. You can also buy dental coverage directly from a dental insurer outside the Marketplace.
Questions to ask before you buy
- Is there a waiting period before major work like crowns or root canals is covered?
- What is the annual maximum the plan will pay?
- Is my dentist or eye doctor in network?
- For vision, does it cover an eye exam plus glasses or contacts each year?
- Would a discount plan (not insurance) be cheaper for routine care only?
Suggested vendors
Agent links: these are links Chuck may be paid through if you buy. Using them never changes your price. See disclosures.
Suggested vendors
Agent links: these are links Chuck may be paid through if you buy. Using them never changes your price. See disclosures.
Common questions
Do Marketplace plans cover dental for adults?
Can I buy dental insurance any time?
Sources
- HealthCare.gov, Dental coverage in the Marketplace. https://www.healthcare.gov/coverage/dental-coverage/
- HealthCare.gov, What Marketplace health insurance plans cover. https://www.healthcare.gov/coverage/what-marketplace-plans-cover/
- CMS, 2026 Marketplace Open Enrollment Period Public Use Files (state and county level). https://www.cms.gov/data-research/statistics-trends-and-reports/marketplace-products/2026-marketplace-open-enrollment-period-public-use-files
Checked October 24, 2026.