When it comes to achieving that perfect smile, cosmetic dentistry has become a trendy choice for individuals all over. In fact, according to the American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry, the demand for cosmetic dental work has doubled within the last five years alone! That said, one burning question that many patients have is whether or not they can use their dental insurance to cover cosmetic dentistry. Keep reading to learn more about the role of dental insurance and why cosmetic treatment, which is often elective, usually isn’t covered.
The Role of Dental Insurance
To put it simply, dental insurance is designed to cover necessary and preventive dental care procedures, acting as a safety net to make treatment less costly. This coverage typically includes things like routine checkups and cleaning, fillings, X-rays, and other treatments necessary for maintaining oral wellness. It can also be used to cover procedures that are deemed medically necessary, such as dental crowns or tooth extractions.
Insurance providers and dentists alike understand that oral problems are generally easier and less expensive to treat when they’re minor, compared to if they’ve been left to worsen. That said, if you have dental insurance, you should use it by seeking out regular preventive care—or emergency care if the call arises!
Does Dental Insurance Cover Cosmetic Dentistry?
While most cosmetic dentistry procedures are typically considered elective and not covered by standard dental insurance plans, there are certain situations where some coverage might be possible, such as:
· Your teeth have been damaged due to an accident, decay, or trauma; cosmetic dental bonding or veneers might be possibly covered, as they can help restore oral functionality.
· If you have missing teeth, sometimes dental implants can be covered since lost teeth negatively impact one’s ability to eat.
· In some cases, orthodontic treatment might be deemed medically necessary since misaligned teeth can cause speech and dietary issues.
· Some dental procedures are hybrid in nature and have cosmetic and restorative purposes, such as dental crowns. They’re also used after root canal therapy, which is a go-to treatment for restoring severely compromised teeth.
If your desired cosmetic procedure isn’t covered by insurance, there are some alternative financing options available. Many practices offer payment plans or financing through third-party companies, making these procedures much more affordable and accessible for patients than one would think!
While dental insurance primarily focuses on necessary and preventive care, there are exceptions when cosmetic work might receive partial coverage. It’s crucial to consult with your dentist and insurance provider to understand the extent of your coverage if you’re interested in specific cosmetic treatments. Ultimately, investing in your smile through cosmetic dentistry can lead to improved self-confidence and overall well-being, making it a very valuable investment.
About the Author
Dr. Robert J. Sanker received his DDS from the Georgetown University School of Dentistry and has proudly served the dental needs of the Rockville, MD community for several years. His practice is thrilled to offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to arrange a visit for you or a loved one, feel free to contact Dr. Sanker through his practice’s website or by phone for assistance. Telephone: (301) 468-5566.