At my last checkup, I asked the dentist for a consultation to see what my options were for a couple missing teeth. I wasn’t sure how affordable dental implants were. I got my estimate and it shows that my insurance is only picking up a very small portion of it. I really figured that they would pick up about half of the total bill. Does this sound right? Is there a way to get them to cover more so I can go forward with treatment?
-Reagan
Dear Reagan,
Dental implants can be pretty pricey, but their benefits are even greater than their cost. Unfortunately, dental insurance doesn’t help much when it comes to creating more affordable dental implants. In fact, many plans have no coverage at all. Others will only pay for half of the crown that goes on top and that’s after you pay a deductible. There are a few plans that cover more, but they are a rarity.
This doesn’t mean that working with your dentist you can’t find a more afforable plan to get dental implants. Every dentist is different in what they offer. Some of them stage out your implants. Others, like Dr. Perry, offer mini implants.
The key is communication. Let your dentist know what you have to work with budget wise and he or she can help you determine the best treatment option for you.
This blog is brought to you by Baton Rouge Dentist Dr. Ryan Perry.