Are implants tax deductible?

Asked by: Prof. Harley Rogahn DVM  |  Last update: October 3, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (24 votes)

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.

Can dental implants be written off on taxes?

To answer your question, yes, dental implants can be tax deductible under IRS Topic 502: Medical and Dental Expenses.

Can I write off breast implants on taxes?

Yes, the IRS will allow you to. write off your breast augmentation, your Bbls, and your lip fillers. if you meet these 3 tests. One, you have to be able to prove that your income. has increased in proportion to your implants. 2, it has to be required and useful for your line of work.

Are dental implants considered medical or dental?

Dental insurance companies may exclude or limit coverage for dental implants because the procedure is considered cosmetic and not medically necessary. Some may also exclude coverage if you were missing the tooth before coverage began. Different parts of the procedure also may be excluded or only partially covered.

What dental procedures are tax deductible?

Only medically necessary dental treatments are deductible, such as teeth cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, X-rays, fillings, braces, extractions, dentures, and dental-related prescription medications. Cosmetic procedures (like veneers and teeth whitening) and non-prescription medicines are not tax-deductible.

Are Dental Implants Tax Deductible? | Federal Tax Resolution

40 related questions found

Is it worth claiming medical expenses on taxes?

The medical expense deduction covers a wide variety of expenses. However, because of the high Standard Deduction and the 7.5% of AGI threshold requirement, it can be difficult to benefit unless you have a lot of out-of-pocket costs.

How much is dental deductible?

Simply put, a deductible is the amount of money that you must pay before your dental insurance kicks in. For most standard dental insurance plans, the annual deductible is around $50. Imagine you need a dental service that will cost $300, and your insurance coverage rate is 80%.

What makes dental implants a medical necessity?

In many cases, dental implants can be defined as medically necessary because: They improve chewing power, which can lead to improved nutrition and a reduced risk of some systemic diseases. They can prevent further tooth loss. They are superior to other forms of tooth replacement.

What does dental implants fall under?

Dental implants fall under the “Class C Major” section, subsection Prosthodontics.

Why aren't dental implants covered by insurance?

Many insurance companies consider dental implants purely a cosmetic, and therefore not medically necessary procedure and will not cover them. But anyone who is missing teeth knows that replacing the missing teeth is critical to their health and general wellbeing.

What are IRS qualified medical expenses?

Medical expenses are the costs of diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, and for the purpose of affecting any part or function of the body. These expenses include payments for legal medical services rendered by physicians, surgeons, dentists, and other medical practitioners.

Will insurance pay to take implants out?

Most insurance companies will not cover any cosmetic procedures and some will not cover complications from previous cosmetic procedures. However, many companies consider removal of breast implants medically necessary for patients with any of these conditions: Ruptured silicone gel breast implants.

Can I claim a tummy tuck on my taxes?

Plastic surgery (unless medically necessary)

The IRS says you can deduct the cost of plastic surgery if it is necessary to improve or correct a deformity resulting from a congenital abnormality, an injury incurred in an accident, trauma or a disfiguring disease.

Are dental implants worth the expense?

While the process may seem long, the final result for dental implants is worth your investment and time. In addition to considering the cost of dental implants, it would be beneficial to consider the improvement it makes in your quality of life and the long-term health benefits you gain.

What proof do I need to deduct medical expenses?

You should also keep a statement or itemized invoice showing:
  • What medical care was received.
  • Who received the care.
  • The nature and purpose of any medical expenses.
  • The amount of the other medical expenses.

Can you get a refund on dental implants?

If you can prove your dentist was at fault, you can file a complaint with the state dental board and notify your insurance company. Based on the second opinion, you can decide whether it is appropriate to ask for a refund.

Is there a downside to dental implants?

The risks and complications you are taking for dental implants include infection, damage to other teeth, delayed bone healing, nerve damage, prolonged bleeding, jaw fractures and more. If you are willing to take these risks, dental implants might be right for you.

How much does most dental insurance pay for implants?

In general, most dental implant insurance policies will cover a portion of the cost of the procedure. However, the percentage they cover varies widely from policy to policy. Some policies may only cover 50% of the cost, while others may cover up to 70%. Again, it all depends on your particular policy.

Are dental implants a medical expense?

Dental implants are classified as a medical expense when they are necessary due to tooth loss from an injury or illness. In such cases, individuals may be eligible to deduct these costs from their taxes. However, if the purpose of the treatment is solely cosmetic, it typically does not qualify for tax deductions.

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.

Who is not a good candidate for dental implants?

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
  • Smoking — Smoking slows the body's natural healing process and affects the process of osseointegration through which a dental implant becomes fused with your natural bone tissue. ...
  • Gum disease. ...
  • General health. ...
  • Diabetes. ...
  • Medications. ...
  • Radiation therapy.

Who is not eligible for dental implants?

A dental implant relies on the bone structure in your jaw for support. If the bone structure is lacking, this can prevent you from getting a dental implant. Bone loss happens for various reasons, including osteoporosis and gum disease. Conditions such as these can lead to the deterioration of the bones in your mouth.

Are dental expenses IRS deductible?

Medical expenses include dental expenses, and in this publication the term “medical expenses” is often used to refer to medical and dental expenses. You can deduct on Schedule A (Form 1040) only the part of your medical and dental expenses that is more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI).

What is the best insurance to have for dental?

Investopedia found Delta Dental to be the best dental insurance company for people looking for standalone plans because of its great coverage and customer satisfaction. However, Physicians Mutual or Spirit may be a better fit if low costs are your main concern.

Do you have to pay a deductible every time you go to the dentist?

Dental Deductible, Copay, and Coinsurance

You will pay your dentist for any non-preventive dental care until you meet this plan deductible. Preventive dental care is covered 100% by most dental plans, so the deductible doesn't apply to these plans. Dental copays are fees you may have to pay when you visit a dentist.