Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

Dental implants are one of the most highly recommended treatments for missing teeth. They offer a long list of benefits, from promoting healthy bone structure to everyday comfort.

However, this innovative treatment can be more costly than some other options. Many wonder if insurance will help cover the cost.

Why Invest in Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial teeth aimed at replicating and replacing your natural tooth. Just like your natural tooth, implants consist of several parts. The major component of the implant is a post, typically made of titanium, that is surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth (similar to the root of your natural tooth). This structure will act as an anchor to attach a crown, bridge, or full set of permanent dentures.

Why are dental implants often considered the best option for tooth replacement? Here are several benefits to implants:

• Improved Stability: Unlike dentures, implants are fixed in place, making them more comfortable and secure.
• Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last for decades, making them a long-term solution.
• Bone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent bone loss after tooth extraction.
• Natural Appearance and Comfort: They look and function just like natural teeth, meaning they can look and feel better.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

The short answer is that it will depend on your insurance. Some plans offer partial coverage for dental implants, but many categorize the procedure as elective, meaning it might not be fully covered.

Dental insurance often focuses on preventive care, such as cleanings and fillings. Coverage for major restorative procedures like implants varies widely between providers and policies. Here are some possibilities:

• Diagnostic Costs: X-rays and consultations required before the implant procedure are often partially covered.
• Tooth Extraction: Because tooth extraction may be necessary due to decay or injury, it may be partially or fully covered by insurance.
• Surgical Placement: The surgery to place the implant may be classified under major restorative care and could be eligible for partial reimbursement.
• Prosthetic Costs: The crown, bridge, or denture that sits on top of the implant is sometimes included in coverage, just like a crown to protect a decayed or damaged tooth might be covered.

Whether or not your insurance covers an implant (or parts of the implant process) may depend on whether the treatment is deemed medically necessary or purely cosmetic. Also, keep in mind that many dental insurance plans have yearly, which may limit coverage.

Payment Options for Dental Implants

Even if your insurance only provides limited coverage, there are several alternative ways to make dental implants more affordable.

Medical Insurance Coverage

Surprisingly, medical insurance plans might cover portions of the implant procedure, especially if the tooth loss or jaw damage is caused by an accident or medical condition. While it is rare, if you need for dental implants is part of reconstructive surgery or the result of an underlying medical condition, contact your primary insurance provider to find out your options.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA)

FSAs and HSAs allow you to allocate pre-tax income towards medical expenses, including dental implants. If you’re enrolled in an eligible plan, these accounts can significantly lower your out-of-pocket costs.

Financing Plans

We offer financing or partner through CareCredit, a trusted name in low-cost financing for medical care, allowing you to spread the cost over several months or even years.

How We Can Help

We work with you and your insurance company to help you get the most out of your coverage. Although we cannot guarantee your insurance will cover part or all of your procedures, and you will remain responsible for payment, we answer questions about the process and assist you in knowing what questions to ask your insurance provider. We can also review financing options for any remaining amounts to help you get the care you need for a payment you can afford.

Ready to find out more? Give us a call today!