Can You Get Dental Insurance for Implants?
Dental implants are metal screws that are used to anchor replacement teeth. The are inserted into the bone and are not visible once the replacement tooth or teeth are put in. The good news is that most of the time these implants are quite effective and have a high success rate. The bad news is that dental insurance for implants is basically unheard of at this time. Most insurance plans simply do not cover implants.
This is quite distressing for many people because these implants can be expensive. The costs you can expect to pay can range anywhere from $500 per implant to several thousand dollars per implant. Factors that may affect the actual price include your geographic location, the dentist you choose, and how many implants you need. Not to mention the cost of the replacement teeth. An implant can be used to secure one tooth, a whole set or any number in between. When you go for an initial consultation your dentist will examine your mouth and tell you what he or she feels will work best for you.
If your dental plan does not cover implants, as most don’t, there are still some options. You can take advantage of the various discount plans offered. These plans may provide savings on a variety of things including dental implants. Not only that, but there are convenient financing plans offered by many dental offices these days. These plans allow you to pay for your implants with small monthly payments rather than all at once. Sometimes you may be asked for a downpayment based on a percentage of the total price, sometimes not. Whether or not you qualify for financing will most likely depend on your income and credit rating. The finance office at your dental clinic can provide you with more information about payment options.
Because dental implants are a fairly common procedure, dental insurance for implants may eventually become available. At this time however, they are usually not covered. This is most likely because they are considered part of a cosmetic procedure. You might want to check with your insurance provider to confirm whether or not there is any coverage for implants and/or tooth restoration. Some dental plans are more comprehensive than others, so it certainly doesn’t hurt to check into the matter.
