28 Jul Are Dental Implants Covered By Insurance?
After being told that you must undergo a dental implant procedure, your first thought was likely, “How much will this cost me?” Tooth extraction, bone grafting, implant placement and specially-made dental implants can cost a lot. Before you open your wallet to pay for this expensive treatment, it is worth investigating whether your insurance provider will cover some of the associated costs.
This blog explains whether most insurance companies will cover dental implant treatment and what other financing options may be available to help cover the entire cost of your treatment.
What Are Dental Implants?
Before diving into insurance coverage, we need to explain what dental implants are to help you better understand why this treatment is beneficial for your oral health.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth attached to a titanium post inserted under your gum line and bonded to your jaw bone. The implant acts as a replacement tooth, filling gaps in your smile and making it easy to eat and talk.
Dental implant placement is a dentist-recommended procedure. It is typically recommended for those who are experiencing tooth loss, damage, or another dental condition.
Some Insurance Will Cover Dental Implants
Coverage for dental implants will vary depending on your insurance company and plan. If your insurance company categorizes dental implants as cosmetic treatments, they will likely not be covered under your insurance policy. Providers typically deem cosmetic procedures as elective, meaning they are unnecessary.
However, some dental insurance providers do cover implants. Insurance companies realize that dental implants and dental crowns are required to replace missing teeth, fight gum disease, mitigate other procedures, and protect your overall health.
What Is Dental Insurance?
Dental insurance plans cover the costs of dental care. Dental insurance policies are much like medical insurance plans, except they cover the cost of procedures related to teeth and gum tissue. But, as previously mentioned, some coverage does not include all major procedures. We suggest that you reach out to your provider to check if your insurance covers implants.
Most people have dental insurance coverage through their employer-provided insurance plans. However, many are not so lucky. Some people may need to purchase dental implant insurance to help cover the cost of their dental care.
How To Pay For Dental Implant Costs
If you are not one of the lucky people with insurance that covers implant treatment, you are likely looking for another way to pay for your treatment. We have compiled a list of alternatives you can investigate to help cover the cost of your implants. Keep reading to learn how you can pay for your dental implants:
- Your company’s health spending account: Many employers establish a spending account, providing their employees with an adequate amount of money to finance any costs that their health benefits do not. Ask your employer whether they have a health spending account that you can use to pay for your dental procedure.
- Purchase a private insurance plan: If your employer does not offer a dental insurance plan, you can always purchase one for yourself. Many providers offer private policies that will finance any dentist-recommended procedures. We highly suggest you explore this option to ensure you have your teeth looked after. Take the time to shop around for a policy, comparing the premiums and percentage covered.
- Government-funded dental care: Many social services agencies offer government-funded dental care, meaning you can get the care you need without relying on your employer or purchasing an insurance plan. However, you will likely need to prove that you are below the poverty line and unable to afford dental treatment on your own.
- Ask your dentist about a payment plan: If you cannot afford to pay your bill outright, some dental practices offer payment plans. A payment plan allows you to pay your outstanding balance over a scheduled period of time, so you do not have to break the bank to get the treatment you need. Ask your dentist whether you can set up a payment plan for your treatment.
Visit Gateshead Dental For Your Dental Implant Procedure
Gateshead Dental can replace missing teeth and will strive to restore your confidence with dental implants. Our dentist has years of experience practicing restorative dentistry, including dental implant placement.
We strive to provide custom, detail-oriented, and great dental care. Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan centered around preventative care and taking care of their natural teeth. Contact us today to book a consultation with our dentist! New patients are always welcome.
