There’s no denying that dental implants are an investment, not only in your time but also in your money. You may wonder whether you can afford this type of treatment or be forced to either go without or choose a non-surgical solution. Can dental insurance help cover the cost, or at least part of it? If so, how can you know? Continue reading to discover what kind of financial help you can expect from your preferred plan.
What Factors Can Influence the Cost of Dental Implants?
Yes, dental implants are expensive, but not every patient pays the same price. This is because it’s fully customized. Different factors influence the cost, so you may pay more or less than someone else. These can include:
- The number of dental implants you need
- The geographic location of your dental practice (bigger cities mean a higher cost of living)
- The type of implant you receive (titanium or zirconia)
- Where the implants must be positioned in your mouth
- The complexity of your procedure (Do you need a bone graft or sinus lift?)
Should You Expect Your Dental Insurance to Cover Dental Implants?
Your dental insurance likely won’t cover the full scope of the dental implant process. After all, it requires multiple steps, each with its own fees. Instead, your plan may agree to cover a portion, but not all. Insurance companies often cover 100% of preventive services, but that amount decreases if you need restorative care.
For example, if you need preliminary care, such as gum disease treatment or bone grafting, your plan may cover part of the cost. The same applies to a custom restoration; your insurance may also cover 50%.
How Can You Maximize Your Savings When Receiving Dental Implants?
One key factor to keep in mind when using your dental insurance to pay for dental implants is to start treatment before the year ends. If your plan is like many others, your benefits won’t roll over because they are only good for one year.
Once you meet your deductible, don’t wait to start the process. You and your dentist can prepare a treatment plan to help you maximize your benefits before it’s too late. Any funds that remain at the end of the year will go back to your insurance company. This means you’ll lose hundreds or even thousands of dollars!
Timing is important when considering dental implants. By meeting your deductible early in the year, your insurance company may pay more toward your new smile.
Don’t worry about navigating your dental insurance details alone. If you have questions about coverage and how to use your benefits, ask your dental team. They’re ready to help make the process as easy as possible.
About the Author
Dr. Cole Simpson & Dr. Gregg Vesta completed dental degrees at the UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry. They also attended the Wehrle Implant Institute to undergo advanced training in implant dentistry. Our doctors provide these prosthetics to patients with missing teeth, using their skills and expertise to create beautiful, long-lasting smiles. If you are considering dental implants and want to know whether your insurance will help cover the cost, contact us via the website or by calling (830) 249-2045.