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Does Dental Insurance Cover Implants?

Dental insurance helps cover routine cleanings and exams, as well as a portion of basic services and major procedures. However, most dental insurance plans don't cover dental implants.

While Aflac's network dental insurance doesn't cover implants, our supplemental dental insurance plans for individuals and families may help reduce your overall dental expenses. These plans pay cash benefits that you can use toward eligible dental costs that fall outside your network plan's coverage.

3 Min Read

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made to support artificial teeth.
  • Many dental insurance plans won’t cover implants, but some may help cover the cost if the implants are deemed medically necessary.
  • While Aflac dental insurance doesn’t cover implants, our network and supplemental dental insurance plans can help cover preventive care, basic services and major services, with optional hearing and vision coverage available.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts that a dentist places in your jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Over time, your bone grows around the post and holds it securely in place. Once the area heals, your dentist attaches a small connector piece, called an abutment, and secures a custom-made replacement tooth, called a crown, on top.

Dental implants look and function like natural teeth. If you've lost a tooth, an implant may help improve your ability to chew and restore your smile's appearance.

Who needs dental implants?

You may need a dental implant if you've lost a tooth due to an injury, trauma, or serious dental issue. If you lost a tooth in an accident or are experiencing chewing or speaking problems, some insurance plans may classify your dental implant as medically necessary.

Dental implants are less likely to be considered medically necessary if the tooth loss is due to gradual decay or if your motivations are cosmetic.

How does the dental implant process work?

Getting a dental implant can involve several procedures, such as:

  • An initial consultation
  • X-rays of the jawbone
  • Tooth extraction (if the damaged tooth is still in place)
  • Bone graft (if your jawbone needs additional support)
  • Implant surgery, often with anesthesia
  • Abutment placement
  • Crown attachment

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last anywhere from several years to a lifetime. Daily brushing and flossing, along with regular dental checkups, can help keep the new implant secure.

How much do dental implants cost?

Dental implants typically cost between $3,000 and $6,000 per tooth.1 Your total cost will depend on:

  • The number of implants you need
  • The complexity of your procedure
  • Your location
  • Your dentist

Does dental insurance cover dental implants?

If you're searching for dental insurance that covers implants, it's important to review your options carefully. It can be difficult to find dental insurance for implants, as they're often considered cosmetic.

However, some insurance plans may provide partial coverage if your dentist determines that the implant is medically necessary.

What does dental insurance cover?

Aflac's network dental insurance plans offer coverage for:

  • Preventative Care: Routine exams and preventive treatments, typically with no waiting period.
  • Basic Services: Common, non-surgical procedures, which may require a waiting period.
  • Major Services: Medically necessary surgical procedures, which may involve a waiting period.

Aflac also offers supplemental dental insurance that can provide cash benefits to help offset the cost of eligible services your network plan doesn’t cover.

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Is dental insurance worth it?

Although Aflac dental insurance doesn't cover implants, our plans can provide the following benefits:

  • Lower out-of-pocket costs: Dental insurance can help reduce the costs of preventive care, basic services and major procedures.
  • Enhanced oral health: Dental insurance typically covers up to two cleanings or dental exams per year. With regular cleanings and daily care, you can reduce the likelihood that you'll need an expensive dental procedure.
  • Dental implant care: Just like your natural teeth, your dental implants may last longer and remain in good condition if you keep up with your routine cleanings and dental exams.

Aflac network dental insurance plans give you the freedom to work within- and out- of- network providers. Additionally, our supplemental dental insurance for individuals and families can help provide additional coverage.

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