The allure of the perfect smile has drawn crowds to cosmetic dentistry treatments like dental veneers. Unfortunately, the price tag that sometimes accompanies veneers can be a quick deterrent. If you are interested in getting veneers, you may be looking for ways to cut costs. Specifically, you have likely wondered, “Will insurance cover dental veneers?”. Below, we outline the factors that influence insurance coverage for dental treatments and share information to help you determine if you qualify.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin tooth-colored shells that a dentist can secure to the front and sides of your teeth. They are an effective option to treat cosmetic dental concerns such as crooked, discolored, cracked, or chipped teeth. There are multiple types of dental veneers, including porcelain, composite, removable, and more. You should consult with a cosmetic dentist to determine which type will best suit your needs.
Will Insurance Cover Dental Veneers?
Because dental veneers are typically considered a cosmetic enhancement, most insurance policies do not cover the cost of veneers. However, all hope is not lost. In situations where dental veneers are deemed medically necessary or are part of a larger restorative treatment, insurance may help cover the cost. The type of insurance you carry and your individual policy will also play a role in whether your policy covers this cosmetic treatment.
Medical Necessity
The grey area in the world of insurance coverage lies in the differentiation between necessary and cosmetic. Medical necessity refers to treatment that is required to improve a person’s health. In the case of dental veneers, that generally would relate to the function of your teeth, mouth, and jaw or severe pain that could be relieved with veneers.
Veneers have a greater chance of being covered by insurance if your teeth have damage because of trauma or you have severe teeth discoloration as a result of a medical issue unrelated to lifestyle choices.
Veneers are considered cosmetic rather than medically necessary in cases where this procedure is to improve the appearance of your smile for reasons unrelated to your health.
Types of Dental Insurance
Your insurance plan will be a significant contributing factor to your likelihood of receiving coverage for veneers. The three most common insurance plans are:
- PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): PPO insurance plans provide some coverage for cosmetic procedures, but coverage can vary greatly between providers.
- HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): HMO insurance typically focuses on preventative care rather than cosmetic enhancements. It is less likely to cover the cost of veneers.
- Indemnity Plans: Indemnity plans may cover part of the cost of dental veneers, but you should refer to your policy details to confirm this information.
Alternative Financing Options
If you have your heart set on dental veneers to transform your smile, but your insurance will not cover the cost, consider alternative financing options.
- Payment Plans: A growing number of dental offices now offer in-house financing or monthly payment plans. This can be a great option if your insurance policy does not cover dental veneers but you are not in the financial position to pay for the full cost upfront.
- Dental Financing Companies: As cosmetic dentistry has grown in popularity, third-party financing services have also become more easily accessible. These financing companies are available to help manage the costs of cosmetic enhancements.
Dental Veneers in Upland
Determining if your policy covers dental veneers involves several factors, including your insurance policy and your reason for seeking dental veneers. If you are in the market for dental veneers, consult with our office to discuss the procedure. Our team can help you determine your financing options and start you on your path to a beautifully restored smile.