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Are Dental Implants Covered By Dental Insurance?

Team Dental Implants

There is no doubt about it. In terms of replacing missing teeth, a dental implant has become the gold standard. It looks and functions like your natural teeth and, in many cases, is a permanent solution that will last for the rest of your life. After your dentist recommends a dental implant, you might be curious about whether your dental insurance plan will help to cover the costs of the procedure. 

Unfortunately, the answer isn’t so straight forward. Your dental insurance may or may not cover it. Here are some factors that could influence coverage.

Your Dental Insurance Provider

The biggest factor of whether your plan will cover the cost of dental implants is your dental insurance provider. Some dental insurance providers are more likely than others to cover dental implants. Some of the dental insurance companies that cover dental implants consider it less expensive over the long term because unlike other options, it is a permanent option.

Plan Coverage Details

If you’re unsure of whether or not your dental insurance will cover dental implants, it is important to carefully review your plan’s coverage. You can request information directly from the insurance company, read plan documentation, or call the company’s customer service phone number to ask a representative. Even two plans offered by the same dental insurance provider can vary in coverage.

Waiting Periods

Many dental insurance plans have waiting periods for the plan to cover more expensive procedures like dental implants. You may need to have the plan for a year or more before you can expect coverage for dental implants. If this is the case, you won’t be able to use the coverage until the waiting period is over.

Annual Limits

Dental implants are more expensive than many other common dental procedures, such as cleanings and dental bridges. If you need bone grafting and other procedures along with the dental implant, it is quite possible that the cost of the dental implant will end up being over the annual limit of your dental insurance plan. This means that you’ll still owe money that’s out of pocket, even if your insurance coverage includes dental implants.

Sometimes Considered a Cosmetic Procedure

Sometimes dental implants are considered a cosmetic procedure. Most dental insurance plans do not offer coverage for cosmetic procedures. If this is the case, the insurance plan may cover a dental bridge, a partial denture, or a crown instead of dental implants. You will need to decide if you’re willing to pay out of pocket for the benefits that dental implants offer.

More Dental Insurance Providers are Starting to Cover Implants

The good news is that more dental insurance companies are starting to provide coverage for dental implants because of how effective the procedure is. As more time passes, there is a greater likelihood that your dental insurance plan will provide at least some coverage for dental procedures. This is an excellent trend for patients and dental providers alike.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re ready to get started with a full-service dental practice that offers dental, oral surgery, and orthodontic services from one office, call Smile Haus at 818-348-6068 ​to schedule your first appointment.