Whether you’ve lost just one tooth or a whole mouthful, most dentists will agree that dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. You may have noticed that the cost of dental implants is usually much higher than more traditional options like dentures or dental bridges. Can dental insurance help to alleviate this cost? Keep reading below as we answer the question, “Are dental implants covered by dental insurance?”
Does Dental Insurance Cover Dental Implants?
Dental insurance companies are often very selective when it comes to the kinds of services they cover. For instance, since it’s much easier to avoid oral health problems than it is to treat them, insurance usually covers preventive care, like cleanings, at 100%. Restorative treatments like fillings or crowns are covered less, while cosmetic procedures are often not covered at all.
Additionally, when it comes to restorative services, dental insurance will generally only cover the least expensive option. In terms of tooth replacement, dentures or bridges are cost much less than dental implants, so they’re more likely to be covered. Furthermore, some insurance companies consider dental implants to be purely cosmetic, despite the numerous benefits they offer.
Why Dental Implants Are Worth Every Penny
Missing teeth are more than an aesthetic problem. They can cause a host of oral health issues. Compared to dentures and bridges alone, dental implants deliver the highest number of benefits, some of which include:
- Because the implants are firmly embedded in your jaw, they won’t slip out of place when talking or eating. They’ll also feel just like your natural teeth.
- With good oral hygiene, dental implants can last for 30+ years. You might actually save money over the years that you might have otherwise spent replacing a bridge or denture.
- Implant-supported teeth are sturdy enough to chew practically any food.
- They’re easy to maintain – just brush and floss like normal.
How You Can Pay for Dental Implants
If your insurance won’t pay for implants, you have other options. Many dentists offer low-interest financing through third-party companies like CareCredit. Some even have an in-house dental benefits plan as an alternative to traditional insurance. With these plans, you receive FREE preventive care as well as significant discounts on most other treatments, including dental implants, in exchange for a flat annual fee.
While your dental insurance may not cover the implants themselves, they may mitigate the cost of other parts of the treatment, such as your restoration, consultation, or preliminary work like bone grafting. Ultimately, the only way to find out how much coverage you qualify for is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They’ll be happy to help you afford the best investment you can make in your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Willy Kassem earned his dental doctorate in 2007 from Temple University and now practices at iSmile Dental Arts in Williamstown, NJ. He has undergone advanced training to be able to place and restore dental implants under one roof, saving you the money, time, and stress of seeing an unfamiliar outside specialist. His practice offers an in-house savings plan and is in-network with a variety of dental insurance plans, including Delta Dental, Guardian, and MetLife. To learn more about how you can make dental implants affordable, contact Dr. Kassem at (856)-818-9998.
