Many dental policies consider implants to be cosmetic procedures. The cost of dental implants will probably not be covered in its entirety by your insurance provider. With most insurance companies, you can expect to pay a co-payment of either a fixed rate per treatment, or a percentage of the overall treatment. Other insurance policies have a deductible you have to pay before they will cover your implants.
Some dentists and patients assume incorrectly that a dental insurance plan does not reimburse for any implant therapy. They may not consider implant therapy even when it is the preferred treatment option because of the assumed lack of reimbursement. But often, there may be benefits available for at least a portion of the treatment.
Although it is true that many plans don’t cover the surgical portion of implant therapy, some carriers provide benefits for the restoration of implants. A few plans cover both surgical and restorative, up to an annual or lifetime maximum.
To receive the maximum reimbursement, the dentist should work closely with the insurance company to ensure that the company’s claims reviewer is clear about the need for the treatment. Plans that do not provide benefits for implants may provide an alternate benefit.
Some dental plans that offer supplementary insurance now offer an option to buy implant insurance. Many people find that changes in diet, stress and the daily wear and tear on their teeth cause damage and they need to have dental implants. Implants stick to the bone, causing the false teeth attached to them to look like natural teeth. Although implants are not as strong as natural teeth, they are much better than having missing teeth. You will need to see your dentist several times until the work is done, and take very good care of your implant. Unfortunately, implants are one of the most expensive procedures and need proper coverage.
One of the best companies offering dental insurance that covers implants is CIGNA. Cigna Healthcare: Dental Implant Extra can be obtained if you are 18 years or older. As all policies vary from location to location, you can contact the Cigna.com website to request a personal quote and plan suitable for your family. |
