The American Academy of Implant Dentistry reports that 3 million Americans have dental implants, and that number is growing by 500,000 each year. Some studies predict that nearly 6% to 23% of Americans will have dental implants by 2026.
There are several different ways to receive dental implants, from a single implant with an abutment and crown to multiple implants with removable or non-removable replacement teeth. Depending on how complex the procedure is, it might take more than a year, and it might cost a lot. It could take up to nine months from start to finish.
Dental implants cost about $1,600 to $2,200 per tooth or more with restorations and sedation. Here’s what you should know about paying for them, including insurance and savings options.
Are implants covered by dental insurance?
You may find that your dental insurance doesn’t cover all costs associated with getting implanted, leaving you on the hook for a large portion of the cost.
Your dental insurance policy may cover dental implants if you meet your deductible; however, your coverage may only cover some aspects of getting an implant, such as consultations, X-rays, anesthesia, and the type of crown.
It is worth noting that the reason for your dental implant can also affect your insurance coverage. Most dental insurance policies cover implants after an accident, but they won’t cover them if they are cosmetic.
Cosmetic implants, for example, may be covered up to 50% by your insurance. Again, coverage rules vary, so be sure to check with your insurer ahead of time.
It is also possible that dental plans won’t cover you if you already had a missing tooth before your coverage began.
Dental implants are covered by medical insurance?
The exception may be if you suffer a severe injury, such as from a car accident, resulting in damage to your mouth. In this case, your health insurance may cover dental implants deemed “medically necessary.”
Dental implants that are considered medically necessary may also be covered by Medicare plans.
There are, however, few dentists who can place implants and accept health insurance or Medicare plans.
Is it possible to pay for dental implants with FSA or HSA funds?
It is possible to use a flexible spending account (FSA) or a health savings account (HSA) to pay for your dental implant procedure.
The flexible spending account (FSA)
Depending on your employer, you may be able to use your FSA funds to pay for a wide range of out-of-pocket health care expenses.
A receipt for your implant and a doctor’s letter of medical necessity may be required.
The health savings account (HSA)
A HSA can be used to pay for dental procedures like dental implants – but only if you’re not getting the implant purely for cosmetic reasons.
Health savings accounts (HSA) are similar to flexible spending accounts (FSAs), but you can get them through your employer or on your own if you have a high-deductible plan.
Dental implants: how to save money
- The first step is to compare the prices of different dentists
It is important to remember that not all dentists will offer their services at the same prices. The quality of the services offered may be the same but the prices are different. If you will restrict yourself to one particular dentist, you will not be able to realize other cheaper options that are available. It is also important to take some time and go through the available websites of different dentists while comparing the prices of the services they offer. You will then choose the one with the lowest price and the quality of service meets your required standards.
- Make sure you shop around
You can find the best deal whenever you make a major purchase or investment by comparing prices and shopping around. Get a second or even third opinion when it comes to dental implants. Dentists who specialize in dental implants can often offer the best prices.
- The third step is to use dental insurance
Ask your dentist how you can apply your dental insurance benefits to the cost of dental implants if you have dental insurance.
To reduce costs, you should also speak to your dental insurance provider about your benefits and how to maximize them. If you don’t have dental insurance, you could consider a dental savings plan.
- Get rid of the extras
Dentists may recommend procedures that aren’t really needed. This is why it’s important to get a second opinion, as well as to get a quote from an implant specialist.
Good dentists will never push you to do more than is necessary when it comes to dental implants. They’ll work diligently to lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
- Find out if a payment plan is available
Despite these steps, if you still cannot afford dental implants, don’t give up hope. Ask your dental implant dentist about flexible payment plans.
If you don’t have insurance, you may be able to negotiate a competitive price or qualify for a layaway plan. If you don’t have insurance, you may look into self-financing.
- Read other people’s comments about the dentist’s prices
These refer to those comments that other people have posted regarding the prices of the services they experienced. You can take your time to read them on their websites or even social media pages. Choosing the dentist based on their negative comments means you need to look for cheaper options, and if they are positive, you can choose that particular dentist and you will find a lower price for the services.