Does Insurance Cover Dental Implant Surgery?

Dental implants are popular procedures for people who have lost some or their teeth. Two common questions with regards to such procedures are: how much implants cost and does insurance usually cover dental implant surgery? As with all things in life, there is no simple answer to either of those questions. The cost of a single implant, for instance, can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on where in the country you have it done, and who performs the procedure. The average price is between $3,000 and $4,500. You can significantly lower those costs by going abroad, but insurance will certainly not cover those costs.

Does Insurance Usually Cover Dental Implant Surgery?

The short answer to that question is "no". However, there are different elements to dental implants, including the surgery, the crown itself, and more. There are insurance companies that will cover the crown part of the implant. However, generally speaking, dental implants are considered cosmetic and elective procedures, even though they are now classed as the typical, standard method of replacing a missing tooth. This is because their success rates are around 98%.

What About Risks and Complications?

A 98% success rate is really good, but it isn't 100%. Dental implants continue to be surgical procedures, which means there are potential risks and complications associated with it as well. This is why you, as a patient, have to carefully plan the procedure together with your dentist. They will make sure that you are healthy enough to withstand the surgery and heal as well. Infections, bleeding disorders, existing medical conditions, allergies, and medications have to be reviewed before treatment can be offered.

Luckily, it is very rare that there is a problem with dental implants. The greatest risks are dental implant fracture, infection, damage to tissue (teeth, blood vessels, or nerves), overloading the implant, poor bone quality or quantity, and poor positioning of the implant. This can be avoided by only working with a qualified dentist. Most of these complications can also be resolved with a second procedure.

What About Follow Up Care?

When you ask the question “does insurance usually cover dental implant surgery?”, you also have to look into follow up care. Generally speaking, no aftercare is covered by insurance companies. However, should you develop peri-implantitis, which is a complication in which the bone and gum around the implant became infected and inflamed due to bacteria, you may receive some insurance coverage, as this is classed as a medical condition. If not treated, peri-implantitis can lead to full implant loss.

Take note that you will not be covered for regular follow up visits or routine at home treatment. Yet these are the most vital elements to making sure you do not develop peri-implantitis. You must regularly floss and brush your teeth in order to make sure they do not get affected by plaque and food debris. Your dentist will also regularly examine the surrounding hard and soft tissue to make sure the implant is properly accepted and looked after.