How To Get Dental Implants Covered By Insurance – Dental implants have become a popular and effective solution for restoring missing teeth and provide a look-alike as well as a durable resemblance to the natural tooth or teeth. No doubt, dental implants offer aesthetically pleasing solutions and functionality to the patient. Besides, the results from dental implants are far different from bridges and dentures.
However, getting dental implants can be expensive and complicated as well. This has made a lot of people wonder if they can undergo this procedure if they have coverage from their dental insurance. They are searching for the perfect financial aid to reduce their expenses. The benefits of having dental implants have become widely recognized. Even though not all traditional dental insurance policies cover implants.
But do not worry because some insurance companies are taking up the responsibility to offer such coverage types to interested clients and individuals. First of all, it is important to understand your insurance policy and specifics to find out if you are qualified for coverage. For a better understanding of the complexities involved, keep scrolling to find out.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are considered permanent and long-lasting medical devices that are used to replace lost teeth. Furthermore, these devices are inserted into the jaw of a person or patient surgically. The whole dental implant system is made up of three pieces that are the implant body, the abutment, and the crown. After this procedure is performed, the healing period begins, and lastly, the attachment of the artificial tooth or teeth.
Are Dental Implants Covered by My Dental Insurance?
The process of getting coverage for dental implants by a dental insurance policy is complicated and complex to understand without proper and accurate details. Since dental implants are considered a cosmetic procedure, many insurance policies or quotes do not cover implants. On the other hand, some insurance policies may cover the procedure cost partially. Such as the crown and not the whole implant device.
Factors Affecting Coverage
Various factors can affect whether dental implants are covered by insurance, and some of them include the specifics of the plan, medical necessity, and the type of insurance policy. Some insurance quotes might cover the crown but not the implant procedure. As for medical necessity, if the implant is seen as medically necessary, it may be covered by your dental insurance policy. Meanwhile, some higher-tier policies may offer partial or half coverage for implants.
Cost of Dental Implants With Insurance
Several factors affect the cost of dental implants widely, and they tend to differ as well. Nevertheless, if you have an insurance policy, this can help you mitigate the out-of-pocket expenses significantly. Your coverage level might be able to cover 50% of the crown cost, but you can check the specifics of your policy for a better understanding.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost Without Insurance?
If you do not have a dental insurance policy, the price of one dental implant will cost from $1,500 to $6,000. However, this depends on the complexity of the procedure and material used. Generally, the price includes the implant, abutment, and crown altogether.
How To Get Dental Implants Covered By Insurance
For individuals considering dental implants and who have a dental insurance policy, you can follow these steps to get coverage for your dental implant procedure using your insurance plan:
- Review your insurance plan.
- Consult with your dentist.
- Pre-authorization.
- Have the medical necessity documentation ready.
- File a claim.
However, if you file a claim and it gets denied, you can appeal, and additional explanations and documentation are needed to change this decision.
How To Choose an Insurer
If you need help choosing a dental insurance company for implants, here are some factors that you need to consider when shopping around:
- Annual max benefit.
- Premium.
- J.D. Power dental plan satisfaction ratings.
- Crown coverage percentage.
- Deductible.
- Implant coverage percentage.
- Waiting period on implants.
- Annual implant maximum.
- Waiting period on crowns.
- Lifetime implant maximum.
Alternatives to Dental Implants
If you are having trouble figuring out if dental implants are the best option for you or if they are just too expensive, do not get worked up. Here are some alternatives to consider:
- Bridges: Less bothersome than implants and usually covered by insurance.
- Dentures: More affordable and usually covered by most dental insurance policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
With regular care, dental implants can last for a very long time. The crown attached to the implant typically lasts 10 to 15 years before it may need replacement due to wear and tear.
Is there a cheaper alternative to dental implants?
Yes, alternatives like dental bridges and dentures are usually less expensive than implants.
Are dentures better than implants?
While dentures are more affordable, dental implants are generally considered superior due to their stability, comfort, and effectiveness in preventing bone loss in the jaw.
How can I know the cost of my dental implants?
The best way to determine the cost is to consult with your dentist, who can provide a detailed estimate based on the specifics of your dental needs and the type of implant chosen.