How dental insurance treats implants and cosmetic work

Implants are often a major procedure

Many dental plans sort treatments into groups such as preventive, basic and major. Implants are often counted as a major procedure. Depending on the plan, that can mean partial coverage, coverage only in certain situations, or no coverage at all. Two patients with the same carrier can have different benefits, because employers choose what to include.

Purely cosmetic work is usually not covered

Treatment done only to change how teeth look, such as whitening or veneers for appearance, is usually not covered by dental insurance. Plans generally pay for treatment that is needed for health or function.

Structural crowns may be partly covered

A crown placed because a tooth is cracked, heavily filled or weakened is a different story. Because it protects the tooth, part of the cost may be covered. The same procedure done for looks alone usually is not. Your dentist will explain which category your treatment falls into, and the plan makes the final call. You can find more about these treatments in our veneers and crowns section.

Annual maximums and waiting periods

Many plans limit how much they will pay in a plan year. This is often called an annual maximum. Some plans also have waiting periods before certain treatments, such as major procedures, become eligible for coverage. The details differ for every plan, so it is worth asking your carrier or employer about both.

We check benefits and give you a written estimate

You should not have to decode your policy on your own. Our team checks your benefits, and after your exam you receive a written estimate that separates what insurance is expected to pay from what you would pay. You will know the numbers before treatment begins. Estimates are based on the information your plan provides, so your dentist will confirm what applies to you.

Each office is in network with a different list of plans, so please check the plans we accept by office or call the office you plan to visit.

Ways to pay over time

• Cherry: see your payment plan options in about a minute, with 0% financing for 12 to 18 months available to qualified applicants at all three offices.
• HSA and FSA: these accounts can usually be used for dental treatment. Check the rules with your plan administrator.

Details are on our financing page, and the office can share the application link.

Ask before you decide

If you are weighing an implant or a smile makeover, a consultation is the best time to ask about cost. You will see your options, a written plan and an honest estimate, with no pressure to decide that day.