Are Dental Implants Covered By Dental Insurance?

A dental implant is a highly advanced tooth-replacement system that can complete your smile while boosting oral health. Many patients feel they would benefit from dental implants but are unsure whether their insurance provides coverage.

While most dental insurance policies cover only parts of the implant process, this blog will discuss situations where patients may receive coverage.

Typical Coverage Areas

Each step in the dental implant process may receive separate insurance consideration.

Tooth Extraction

Insurance may cover removing the damaged tooth that the implant will replace.

Bone Grafts

Dental insurance policies do not typically cover bone grafting despite its crucial value in the process. If you must receive a bone graft before implant surgery, you should plan to pay for it out of pocket.

Dental Implant Surgery

Most dental insurance policies cover implant surgery as a major procedure. You may receive coverage of up to 50 percent. However, you must check your coverage levels before scheduling dental implant surgery.

Crown Placement

Many insurers cover 50 percent of the cost of dental crowns, but patients should check their coverage.

When Dental Implants May Receive Comprehensive Coverage

While many dental insurance policies cover steps in the implant process, receiving complete coverage may be challenging.

A possible exception is if you suffer a traumatic oral injury, such as a fall or car accident. Patients may be able to draw on their medical insurance and dental policies in these situations.

Dental Implant Choices

Single-Tooth Implants

These implants replace one existing tooth at a time. The implant anchor replaces the tooth's natural root system, providing healthy stimulation for the jawbone and preventing bone loss. The anchor holds a dental crown that matches your teeth, providing a beautiful, natural-looking smile.

Implant-Supported Bridges

An implant-supported bridge is a superior alternative to a standard crown-supported bridge for patients with more than one adjacent tooth missing. It lasts longer and traps less food and plaque than a regular bridge.

Full-Arch Dental Implants

Patients missing a significant number of teeth may benefit from a full-arch solution. Full-arch dental implants provide many benefits that standard dentures cannot. For example, they do not slip, click, or trap food.

Advantages of Dental Implants

• Long-Lasting: Given proper care, a dental implant anchor may last decades or even a lifetime. However, the crown or denture on top may need periodic replacement.
• Easy Care: Implants require no more care than healthy natural teeth. Brush for two minutes at least twice daily, floss, and make regular dental visits to check the health of your implants.
• Better Oral Health: Food and plaque collect in the gaps left by missing teeth, raising your chance of developing gum disease and tooth decay. The remaining teeth often shift, causing alignment issues.
• Clearer Speech: Patients with many missing teeth often have trouble forming certain sounds. A complete set of teeth will help them speak clearly.
• Better Nutrition: Patients with dentures or missing teeth often have difficulty chewing certain foods. With implants, no foods are off-limits.
• Improved Appearance: Missing teeth can age your appearance. A complete, healthy smile will make you look younger and more vital.

Know Your Coverage

Before embarking on your dental implant journey, study your medical and dental policies. You may receive more coverage than you expected. Your dentist's skilled office team can help you secure the best possible coverage.

Changing Your Life With Implants

You may be weary of hiding your smile if you have missing or damaged teeth. With new dental implants, you will feel confident again. A complete smile goes a long way toward improving your mood, health, and outlook on life. Your family dentist can show you how implants can change your life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Are full-arch dental implants permanent?

These implants are durable and long-lasting. The anchors may last a lifetime with ideal care, but normal wear and tear may require replacing the restoration after several years.

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

• Missing or damaged teeth
• Robust jawbone health or the ability to receive a bone graft
• Excellent oral care habits
• Non-smoker or willing to quit permanently
• Absence of medical conditions that impede healing (uncontrolled diabetes, cancer)

Call Davis Gribble Hollowwa Dental

If dental implants appeal to you but you are unsure whether you can afford them, please call us at 505-898-1976. We can help determine your coverage levels and achieve better oral health.