Cosmetic Dentistry and Insurance: What You Need to Know
Refining your smile boosts self-confidence and may enhance your self-esteem and quality of life, but getting treatment involves navigating insurance. Are all enhancements cosmetic or are some essential dental treatments? Will your insurance cover your procedures? Here’s what to know about cosmetic dentistry and insurance.
Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments
Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dental work that aims to improve or enhance the appearance of your smile. With cutting-edge technologies, your cosmetic dentist can correct stains, mask gaps, chips, or cracks, realign your teeth, and even change the shape of your gums and teeth.
These treatments include:
- Teeth whitening
- Gum contouring
- Porcelain veneers
- Dental bonding
- Braces
- Dental implants
Does Insurance Cover Cosmetic Dentistry?
The most common question about cosmetic dentistry is whether insurance covers the procedure. In many cases, cosmetic dentistry is elective or non-essential and therefore not covered. However, some plans may pay part of the cost of certain procedures.
Types of Dental Insurance Coverage
Most dental plans cover four elements of care:
- Preventative, such as check-ups and cleanings
- Restorative, such as fillings and crowns
- Endodontics, including root canals
- Surgery, like tooth removal or biopsy
Treatments are generally only covered in each area when they are essential for long-term health or disease prevention. However, some cosmetic treatments may involve essential procedures that improve your overall health, which your plan may cover.
For instance, dental implants usually fall under cosmetic dentistry. However, if you need to remove a damaged tooth to improve your oral health before getting an implant, your plan may cover the extraction costs.
Additionally, most plans cover prosthodontics, such as bridges or dentures, because of the impact of missing teeth on long-term health. However, you may still have to pay co-pays and deductibles.
Orthodontics Insurance Rider
Many plans offer orthodontic coverage, such as clear aligners or traditional braces, but this coverage is typically through a rider or add-on that extends your policy. Riders are available for individual or group policies, which you can choose when needed.
Other Cosmetic Dentistry Funding Options
While some plans may pay for parts of procedures through special coverage, you may need to get creative with funding. Fortunately, there are a few options.
Savings and Financing
One option is to finance your treatments through savings. Set aside a certain amount every week or month and book your procedures when you have saved money. It may take some time, but it will help you avoid debt. However, loans and credit cards are another popular financing option, especially for larger payments.
Payment or Membership Plan
Many dental studios offer payment or membership plans to help you finance your dental health. At Aesthetic Smiles, we offer a VIP Experience Plan, which includes annual preventive, routine, and emergency treatments. This plan also includes a 15% discount on all treatments, giving you better access to the care you need and want.
Radiate Confidence with a New Smile
Aesthetic Smiles Dentistry is a cosmetic dentist and orthodontist studio in Shenandoah, Texas. We offer a full menu of dental services in a state-of-the-art clinic with a luxurious experience, providing expert and comfortable care. To learn more about cosmetic options, schedule an appointment.