Does Medical Insurance Cover the Cost of Implants?
Medical insurance can reimburse dental implant costs, which many people don’t realize. If your tooth loss was caused by an accident or a medical condition, you may have better chances of getting coverage. Implant procedures may qualify for medical coverage when they meet the criteria for medical necessity.
An example would be where implants restore function by addressing a compromised ability to chew. They may also be considered medically necessary when oral disease contributes to, or causes, other health issues—such as digestive or nutritional problems stemming from impaired chewing function. Implants may also be deemed medically necessary when they help preserve bone and prevent further bone loss in patients with other medical conditions, such as digestive disorders, diabetes, or osteoporosis.
These are general guidelines; keep in mind that coverage varies quite a bit between different insurance companies and plans, and your specific medical condition. It’s worth having a thorough conversation with your insurance provider to understand exactly what your policy includes.
Patients with out-of-network coverage from providers such as United Healthcare, Aetna, Humana, Blue Cross Blue Shield or Cigna may see reimbursements for dental implant treatment.
Generally, Medicare and Medicaid do not provide coverage for dental implants. Read our guide for more on Medicare coverage and dental implants.
In order to proceed, you will be provided a consent form by your Patient Ambassador at your first consultation who will outline the terms and eligibility. The process is as follows:
- Eligibility verification
- Pre-determination of benefits
- Claim submission to your medical insurance provider
*If your medical insurance provider reimburses for any portion of your procedure, you will be notified immediately and advised of the criteria required to apply for the program. Most payments will be sent directly to the patient/policy holder, however, please note there are no guarantees regarding the outcome of the insurance claim, as reimbursement is at the discretion of your insurance provider. You also may be required to forfeit your eligibility for other Smart Arches discounts, as only one program at a time may be applied. Eligibility will vary by state regulatory guidelines detailed by the provider and insured patient’s benefits.
What About Dental Insurance Coverage?
Depending on your coverage, dental insurance may provide some assistance with dental implants, however maximums typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 of coverage.
Dental insurance typically covers the cost of regular cleanings and maintenance after the implant procedure.