Why Receive Dental Implants Before the End of the Year?
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You want dental implants. Their permanence and longevity make them an appealing option when compared to traditional dentures or dental bridges, but are they covered by dental insurance? This is a question often asked by interested patients, but the truth is usually, “it depends.” Read on to find out if you’ll be covered for treatment and why it’s necessary to start the process now instead of waiting until next year.
Are Dental Implants Covered by Dental Insurance?
If it were clear-cut, this question wouldn’t be necessary, but the truth is it depends on your insurance company as to whether they will cover your dental implant placement. Most carriers do not offer coverage because it’s deemed a cosmetic procedure, not a “medical necessity.” However, there are some components of your implant treatment that may be eligible, such as your initial consultation, customized restoration, or preliminary treatments (i.e., periodontal therapy, tooth extraction, bone grafting).
If dental insurance won’t agree to cover the cost, you may be wondering if your medical insurance carrier will. Again, it depends on your situation. Only if you sustain facial trauma that results in missing teeth, suffer from a congenitally missing tooth, or have lost teeth due to a medical condition or specific treatment may you receive some form of medical insurance coverage.
Why Use Dental Benefits Now Instead of Waiting Until 2022?
If you do have dental insurance that will cover the cost of your dental implants in Hartford, you’ll need to examine your annual maximum to determine how much you can pursue based on this allotted amount. It may be necessary to have it completed in phases to avoid any additional out-of-pocket expenses at the end of the year, but your dentist will ultimately determine if this is possible.
But the reason you shouldn’t wait until 2022 to start your dental implant process is no matter how your insurance company chooses to handle the financial side of your treatment, you will benefit in the following ways:
- Dental benefits expire: Most dental insurance plans are good for a single calendar year, so if you don’t use the money and coverage provided during this time, your benefits will expire at midnight on December 31. As a result, you’ll lose thousands of valuable dollars that are rightfully yours.
- Your deductible resets: When reviewing your policy on January 1, you’ll see your deductible is reset to $0 and your annual maximum is also reset. While it may not seem worrisome, the reality is you’ll be expected to meet your deductible next year before your insurance company agrees to pay more for the services you receive.
No matter how your dental insurance company agrees to handle your new implant surgery, you can trust your dentist and team members will work on your behalf to help you save. Using the right methods and experts to help you save money, you’ll enjoy a beautiful and longer-lasting smile.
About the Author
Dr. Thaddeus Michalski has been practicing since 2001. Committed to helping individuals achieve healthier smiles, he completed four years with the U.S. Marine Corps before achieving his dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. With years of extensive training and experience in various specializations, he believes in providing comprehensive and affordable dental care. If you are struggling to understand how your dental insurance works and whether you’re covered for a particular service, contact us at (860) 563-4544.