Does Dental Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

Countless dentists and patients alike extol dental implants as the premier form of tooth replacement. They are beautiful, strong, reliable, and long-lasting. However, it must be acknowledged that this treatment costs more than non-implant alternatives. Patients often ask, “Does dental insurance cover dental implants?” In this blog post, we’ll discuss a few points that go over how your policy might apply to this life-changing procedure.

Coverage Varies from Policy to Policy

First, it’s important to understand that while different dental policies usually offer comparable coverage on treatments like cleanings, checkups, and fillings, their approach to dental implants varies widely. Some insurers might view implants as a “major service,” which typically means they will cover 40% – 50% of its total cost, up to the amount of the policy’s annual maximum. Other insurance companies might label dental implants as a cosmetic procedure and provide no coverage for them.

Coverage for Implant Restorations

The above information applies primarily to dental implants themselves as well as the surgery where they get placed in the jawbone. The restorations that go on top of dental implants often have different insurance considerations. Even if a policy does not cover dental implants, it might reduce your out of pocket costs for the crowns, bridge, or denture that will serve as your new prosthetic teeth.

What About Preparatory Treatment?

Some patients need to undergo a bone graft, gum disease treatment, or extractions before they are candidates for dental implants. Often, dental insurance does apply to these procedures. Simple (non-surgical extractions) are usually considered a basic service and might be covered at 70% or 80%, while gum disease treatment might be labeled as a major service.

Tips for Affording Your Dental Implants

Regardless of how your dental insurance applies to dental implants, you can use these tips to help you afford your treatment:

• Keep your annual maximum in mind. Your insurance policy’s annual spending limit is likely to reset on January 1. You might still have time to use this year’s policy to pay for a portion of your treatment, and in 2021, you can begin to use your new benefits.
• Check with your medical insurance. Some medical plans may offer coverage for the dental implant surgery or other portions of the treatment that dental insurance doesn’t usually cover.
• Talk with your dental team. Your dental team may have useful advice on how to use your insurance. They can also talk to you about other payment options, such as low-interest financing through CareCredit.

The only way to know for sure how your dental insurance applies to dental implants is by taking a look at your policy’s specific details. Your dentist’s team will be happy to help you use your policy to your greatest advantage.

About the Author

Dr. Terry Rakowsky is an insurance-friendly dentist with more than 30 years of experience. He partners with trustworthy local specialists to provide comprehensive dental implant treatment. To learn more about him, the services he provides, and how our team can help you with the financial aspects of your care, contact us at 215-348-2224.