Does Dental Insurance Cover Cosmetic Dentistry?

Does Dental Insurance Cover Cosmetic Dentistry?

It can be tough to get insurance to cover the procedures you want or need. When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, things can get even more complicated. Some cosmetic procedures are covered by certain insurance plans, but not all of them will be.

Traditional dental insurance plans focus on procedures that are considered medically necessary. This is in contrast to cosmetic procedures – they don’t offer any medical benefit other than the improved look of the teeth. But that doesn’t mean cosmetic procedures aren’t worthwhile!

Not every insurance plan covers dental health. Luckily, if you do have dental insurance, some cosmetic procedures may be partially covered. It all just depends on the plan.

What Dental Procedures are Considered Cosmetic?

There are a few cosmetic dental procedures that can help you achieve your dream smile. Here are some of the most common:

Teeth Whitening:

A teeth whitening procedure uses chemicals to remove stains and discoloration from your teeth, leaving them looking brighter and whiter.

Veneers:

Veneers are artificial covers that go over the visible surfaces of your teeth. They’re usually made of porcelain, and can help give you a more even, symmetrical smile.

Shaping:

Shaping is a procedure where we modify the shape of your tooth to make it look nicer. This is usually done by filing down the tooth.

Gum Contouring:

Gum contouring is when we remove excessive soft tissue that’s covering parts of our teeth. This can help improve the look of your smile.

Dental Plus Plans are insurance plans that offer enhanced coverage for procedures like these, often at a reduced out-of-pocket cost.

When is Cosmetic Dentistry Covered by Insurance?

Many cosmetic dental procedures can be partially covered by insurance, but there usually has to be a demonstrated medical benefit in addition to the aesthetic improvement. Fortunately, many cosmetic dentistry procedures do support long-term oral health.

Although tooth whitening and gum contouring are seldom covered by insurance, veneers, bonding, and crowns may be eligible for coverage in some circumstances. A dental exam can help determine if these procedures are necessary to maintain strong, healthy teeth.

For more information on does dental insurance cover cosmetic dentistry check out the American Dental Association.