What You Need To Know About Dental Implants And Insurance Coverage
Dental implants are the right choice for many people who are facing major tooth decay or tooth loss for other reasons. Once you and your dentist decide that dental implants are the right solution for your dental woes, the next step is to work with your insurance to see how much of it will be covered under your insurance plans. Here's what you need to know about dental implants and insurance.
You're Not Limited to Dental Insurance
You may not have to rely on your dental insurance to cover your dental implants. Your medical insurance may cover the implants. A lot of people lose out because they think dental insurance is their only option. Be sure to check with both your medical insurance company and your dental insurance company to see what they are willing to cover. Discuss the following things with your insurance company:
- Reveal why you need the dental implant, going into detail about its possible or definite causes.
- Be sure to ask for the name of anyone you speak to within your insurance company, and jot down the date, time, and specific topic of each conversation.
- Make a list of questions that pertain to your particular needs, the cost of your dental implants, and any limitations that may be on your insurance plan. When you get a representative of the insurance company on the phone, make sure to have all your questions answered. Record the answers for later review.
- Discuss possible appeals that can be made if the implants are not approved.
Pre-Existing Conditions May Not Stand in Your Way
In order to get dental implants, you need to have healthy gums, and the bone around the implant area must be strong enough to hold the implant in place. Having a medical condition does not mean that you cannot have dental implants, but you do need to speak with your doctor and your insurance company regarding the possible complications if you have any of the following conditions:
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
- Gum Disease
- Cancers (those that are treated with radiation therapy)
Having the above conditions may result in an insurance company covering the dental implants. Be up front and clear on what conditions may have caused the dental implants, and you may be pleasantly surprised at how little you have to pay out of pocket for the implants.
Finally, when you are confused on any step of this process, be sure to talk to your dentist or your insurance company. They should provide you with clear, concise answers or recommend someone who can help you. Getting dental implants is a smart choice for many dental dilemmas, and your insurance may cover all or part of this procedure. Contact a dentist, like Silverstone Family Dental, for more help.
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