Are implants covered by insurance?

Asked by: Ms. Juliana Boyle  |  Last update: November 14, 2025
Score: 4.9/5 (24 votes)

Some insurance policies list dental implants as cosmetic procedures, which can limit your coverage options. There are, however, cases when dental insurance picks up a portion of your procedure, like the post and abutment placement, which can cover 45% of the total cost. So, in short: it primarily depends on your plan.

How much does most dental insurance pay for implants?

Many plans will cover them if you need them due to an accident, but not if the reason is cosmetic. If your plan does cover your implants, it will typically only cover a percentage of the costs, often 25% to 50%. And you may need to wait six months, a year, or more to get the highest amount of coverage.

Are dental implants ever covered by insurance?

If your dental implant is medically necessary, your dental insurance plan may cover some of the costs. You can also use a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to pay for medically necessary dental implants.

Does insurance cover implant replacement?

Health insurance policies may pay for the capsulectomy or the removal of tight scar tissue around the implant and the implant removal, but they do not pay to have the breast implant replaced. Implant replacement in face of capsular contracture is considered elective.

What is considered medically necessary dental implants?

When Is A Dental Implant Medically Necessary? Teeth implants are considered medically necessary when you have lost more than half of all teeth. They can also support a dental prosthesis, such as a denture or bridge. In some cases, dental implants may help prevent further bone loss in the jaw.

Dental Implants 3 - Gundersen Health - Are implants covered by insurance?

17 related questions found

How can I qualify for dental implants?

dentures, but these 3 requirements tend to be especially important:
  • Your Age. Your age can play a major role in finding the right choice for your tooth replacement. ...
  • The State of Your Health. ...
  • Your Jawbone Density. ...
  • Other Options To Restore Your Smile. ...
  • Find out whether dental implants are right for you.

Who is ineligible for dental implants?

Common Reasons Preventing You from Getting Dental Implants

These reasons include gum disease, jaw bone structure, bruxism, pre-existing health conditions, and poor oral health.

What if I can't afford an implant?

If you can't afford dental implants, you can replace missing teeth with a removable partial or complete denture.

Why won't insurance cover dental implants?

One of the primary reasons dental insurance doesn't cover implants is the high cost associated with the procedure. Insurers typically focus on cost-effectiveness and consider implants elective rather than essential. This exclusion is a major source of frustration for individuals in need of dental implant treatments.

What are the cons of gummy bear implants?

The Gummy Bear implants do have some drawbacks as well.
  • Some women may find that they can be a little too firm.
  • The incision for Gummy Bear implants can be a little larger.
  • They still carry the same potential risks of other implants, such as capsular contracture, asymmetry, infection, etc.

How do people afford dental implants?

The most common way people pay for dental implants is to apply for dental financing. Dental financing gives you the option to pay for dental work over an extended period, usually between two and seven years.

What is the most dental insurance will cover?

Understanding Dental Insurance Coverage
  • 100% for preventive care including cleanings, exams, and X-rays.
  • 80% for basic procedures, such as fillings.
  • 50% for major procedures, such as crowns and dentures.

How painful is getting a dental implant?

Most patients do not experience discomfort during their treatment. Once the dental implant procedure is over and anesthesia has worn off, it is normal for patients to experience some discomfort. Common side effects of dental implant treatment include soreness in the teeth, gums, and jaw surrounding the treatment area.

How can I get money to pay for dental implants?

7 Ways to Pay for Your Dental Implants
  1. Out of Pocket/Personal Savings. Consider tapping into your rainy-day fund to cover dental implant costs. ...
  2. Dental Insurance. ...
  3. Dental Financing. ...
  4. Flexible Spending Account (FSA) ...
  5. Health Savings Account (HSA) ...
  6. Borrow From Your Retirement Plan or Home Equity. ...
  7. Dental Grants.

Is there a cheaper alternative to dental implants?

Full or partial dentures are cheaper options compared to dental implants. Dentures depend on natural suction, as well as adhesives and pastes, to stay in place. Partial dentures are popular alternatives to implants for your molar teeth or other types of teeth.

Why are dental implants so unaffordable?

Dental implants cost more than other tooth replacements because they involve multiple procedures, advanced materials, and expertise from specially trained professionals. While the upfront cost is higher, their durability and long-term benefits make them a worthwhile investment for many.

How can I get dental implants covered by insurance?

For medical insurance to cover dental implants, the procedure often must be connected to a medical condition or an accident. The key is finding a medically necessary reason to justify the implant procedure.

How much will Delta Dental pay for implants?

There are three types of plans for individuals that you can purchase to cover implants: Delta Dental PPO Plan offers 50% coverage for implants. Delta Dental Premier Plan offers 40% coverage for implants. Delta Dental PPO Plus Premier Plan offers 40% coverage for implants (or 30% coverage for out-of-network)

Will dental implants ever be affordable?

Technological improvements could lead to cost reductions. New manufacturing methods, materials, and techniques may lower overhead costs, making implants cheaper over time. However, while technology can enhance efficiency, the initial investment in new equipment could temporarily maintain or increase costs.

Who is not eligible for dental implants?

3. Hemophilia or Bleeding Disorders: Conditions impairing blood clotting may risk excessive bleeding during and after implant surgery. 4. Osteoporosis: Reduced bone density may affect the stability and longevity of dental implants.

How can I fix my teeth but I don't have money?

Free Dental Clinics
  1. Nonprofit clinics. Some cities have dental clinics that specifically serve people with low incomes, no insurance, or who otherwise can't afford care.
  2. Donated services. Some state or national charities use donated labor and materials to give free care. ...
  3. Private dentists.

Can you get the implant for free?

There's a good chance you can get the implant for free (or at a reduced price) if you have health insurance. Because of the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare), most insurance plans must cover all methods of birth control, including the implant.

What disqualifies you from dental implants?

Patients currently undergoing radiation treatment (or who have undergone radiation treatment in the past) affecting their face and neck are poor candidates for receiving dental implants.

Can I claim dental implants on my taxes?

But that's not all – did you know that dental implants are tax deductible? It's true! According to the IRS website, payments for “false teeth” are deductible as long as they exceed 7.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income.

Who is a poor candidate for dental implants?

Patients undergoing or previously undergoing radiation therapy are not good candidates for dental implants. Patients with specific medical conditions or poor health, in general, shouldn't consider implant surgery. Pregnant ladies should wait for their childbirth before receiving implant treatment.