Health insurance can be a tricky thing, and it’s always best to do your due diligence before signing up for a plan if you want to be happy with it. This especially applies to dental insurance, as it is optional for most health plans, meaning that you’ll need to put a bit more thought into your options, and whether you need it to begin with. Let’s take a look at the relationship between dental insurance, dental implants, and how you can find ways to afford the procedures that you need.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Dental implants falling into the category of cosmetic dentistry. In other words, dentistry designed mostly for looks, rather than necessity. While this may seem odd considering the functionality of dental implants, it’s just the way it is. The reason this is significant is because cosmetic dentistry typically isn’t covered by most dental insurance plans. This is because dental insurance is closely linked to health insurance, and only covers issues that are directly related to your health, not your looks. This may sound depressing, but there are ways around this that can help you get dental implants at reduced costs if you really need them.
Cosmetic Dentistry Insurance
As previously mentioned, a dental plan tied to health insurance likely won’t cover cosmetic procedures, however, there are special plans you can buy that are specifically made to cover these procedures. These cosmetic dental plans can be a big help if you are involved in sports or activities that could result in the need for implants, or if you are growing older, and want the reassurance of knowing that it will be easier to afford dental implants when the time comes.
Cosmetic dentistry insurance plans are varied, and all have their own options, and fees. Some are exclusively for cosmetic dentistry procedures, while others can also cover the various medical procedures that may be involved with the process, such as if you were involved in an accident that did substantial damage to your teeth and/or jaw. You can even find plans that cover just the need for dental implants, if that’s all you want.
Getting What You Need, When You Need It
The key to getting the right plan at the right price is to first consider what you need and why. Do you really need dental implants, or are dentures good enough? Are you regularly exposed to situations which could result in an injury that could require dental implants? Considering these questions, and talking to a knowledgeable insurance agent can help you find the plan that’s right for you.
Another thing to consider are the premiums that you need to pay. Dental implants are getting cheaper all the time, but they can still be pricey. This can lead to higher premiums which you’ll need to take into consideration, as well as your deductible if there is one. Remember, an insurance company is out to make a profit, if you show up trying to get cosmetic dental insurance right before you have a procedure done, don’t expect things to go in your favor, if they will even agree to insure you at all.
Stay Smart, and Get a Good Deal
In the end, dental insurance is best used in situations in which you predict there may be a need for it in the future. If you suspect that dental implants are something you’ll need at some point in time, then looking for a special insurance plan may not be a bad idea. But, if you need dental implants right now, you may be better off working out a payment plan with your dentist, or finding third party financing to meet your needs.
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