When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are considered the gold standard, capable of replicating the look, feel, and function of any number of lost pearly whites. The process involves a surgical procedure in which titanium posts are placed directly into your jawbone, where they will then act as replacement tooth roots and grant all sorts of unique benefits. That said, if you’re thinking about getting dental implants, you might be wondering how your dental insurance plan will fit into the picture. Here’s a brief overview.
Understanding Dental Insurance Coverage
Dental insurance is a form of health coverage that covers various types of dental care services, including but not limited to preventive care like checkups and cleanings, minor treatments like fillings and extractions, and occasionally more complex procedures. However, since every insurance plan is different, this coverage typically varies greatly from patient to patient.
At its core, dental insurance is simple; it serves as a safety net that can mitigate the need for costly, complex dental treatment by prioritizing preventive care and maintenance. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t be used for situations like restoring missing teeth with dental implants.
Note that dental insurance requires you to pay monthly premiums, and most plans include a deductible, meaning you’re required to spend a certain amount of money on care before becoming eligible for insurance benefits. Some plans also have waiting periods, meaning that your benefits will not become accessible until after a certain point.
Are Implants Covered by Insurance?
To determine whether your insurance covers implants, you will also need to understand the different parts of the treatment, from the initial diagnostic and discussion about implants to the delivery of the final restoration(s). The amount of coverage also depends heavily on factors like how many teeth you’re replacing, as well as where they’re located, since these details determine how many implants are needed and what type of restoration will be placed.
In many cases, a portion of the dental implant process will be covered; for example, preliminary procedures like tooth extractions, gum disease treatment, or even bone grafting may be covered. If your dental implant is deemed medically necessary, it may also be partially covered.
You should always review the fine print of your insurance plan before committing to any form of dental treatment, including implants. However, with at least partial coverage often possible, you absolutely shouldn’t shy away from replacing your missing teeth with this top-of-the-line solution.
About the Practice
Our team here at Temple Choice Dental has proudly served the needs of patients and families in Temple, TX, and the surrounding community for several years, offering a wide variety of services, including tooth restoration solutions like dental implants. Our practice is also insurance-friendly and in-network with numerous providers; just let our team know if you have any questions about your plan. If you’d like to get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (254) 727-7144.