Many people are surprised to learn that dental insurance coverage doesn’t always include dental implants. As a result, these patients put off their treatment, not knowing how to use their coverage to their advantage. Every year, cases like these lead to approximately $100 billion in unused dental benefits across the US! If you’re considering dental implants, continue reading. You’ll learn why it’s a good idea to understand what your insurance covers and how you can maximize your benefits before they expire.
Are Dental Implants Covered by Insurance?
For most dental plans, coverage for implants can vary depending on the insurance company and your specific plan. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:
- Partial Coverage: Some insurance plans may cover some part of the implant procedure, often focusing on the crown or prosthetic part rather than the surgical placement of the implant itself.
- Alternative Benefits: Occasionally, insurers will offer coverage for a cheaper alternative (like a bridge or denture) instead of an implant.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: In many cases, patients will need to pay a part of the cost out-of-pocket, so it’s best to check with your insurance provider about specific coverage options before starting treatment.
How to Maximize Your Benefits Before Year’s End
Since most dental insurance plans operate on a yearly schedule, any unused benefits are typically lost at the end of the year. Here are a few tips to help you maximize your dental benefits, so you don’t miss out:
- Schedule an Early Consultation: If you’re interested in dental implants, schedule a consultation with your dentist before the end of the year! This way, you can explore your options and start any necessary preparatory treatments while your benefits are still available.
- Use Your Annual Maximum: Most insurance plans have an annual maximum, the total amount they’ll cover each year. Dental implant procedures can be broken into stages, allowing you to use this year’s coverage for initial steps, like extractions. Then, you can use next year’s for the final implant placement.
- Ask About Financing Options: If your insurance only covers part of the procedure, ask your dental office about financing plans. Many practices offer membership plans and financing options like CareCredit that can help you manage the cost of implants over time.
Insurance is a complicated matter, especially when the pressure is on them to use up their benefits. The bottom line is that if you want to get dental implants, you’ll need to act now! While it’s unlikely you’ll be able to complete the treatment before year’s end, you can get a head start. This will let you reduce the cost of your implants overall and set you up for success when your benefits roll over!
About the Practice
At Rauchberg Dental Group, we believe in helping you make the most of your money. Our team is experienced in working with insurance providers to find affordable solutions for treatments like dental implants and beyond. We’ll help you explore your options and answer any questions about insurance, financing, and dental care you may have. So, call (973) 718-9887 to schedule a dental implant consultation with us or visit our website to learn more.