Dental implants are beneficial for those with missing teeth and specific other oral problems. However, getting them can be pretty expensive. According to a cost survey by the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute (ADAHPI), a single implant, on average, costs between $3,100 and $5,800, which not many can afford without breaking the bank. But the good news is that a few insurance policies help cover the cost.

What are dental implants?
An implant is a surgically affixed device that acts as a substitute for a tooth. Unlike dentures and dental bridges, they are permanent, hence considered a better alternative by many.

What are the advantages of a dental implant?
Most dentists recommend implants over alternatives like dentures because of the benefits mentioned below:

Improved speech and comfort
Ill-fitting dentures can cause mild to severe speech impairments over time, including slurring and mumbling. Moreover, since they are foreign bodies inside the mouth, dentures feel slightly out of place. There are no such problems with permanent implants.

Easier chewing of food
Dentures can make chewing food difficult because they are not permanently fixed. There is a constant fear of them slipping out of place with continuous jaw movement. On the other hand, implants function as one’s own teeth. Users can chew easily and confidently without pain or discomfort.

Improved appearance
Since dental implants are designed to mimic real teeth and feel natural, they do not affect one’s appearance. Further, the fixtures help maintain mouth structure and strengthen the jaw bone. They fuse with the bone over time, gradually becoming a part of the body.

How much does a dental implant cost?
The price varies drastically since no two fixtures are the same. But getting even a single implant can be very expensive in most cases. Those looking for a full-mouth implant can expect to shell out anywhere between $60,000 and $90,000! So, it is best to be financially secure with an insurance policy.

Does Medicare cover dental implants?
Medicare is the country’s national health insurance program. Unfortunately, it does not directly cover dental care procedures, including cleanings, fillings, extractions, dental implants, dental plates, or other services. Part A of the policy, or Original Medicare, may cover a person’s hospital stays if they undergo a complicated dental treatment, but not the procedure itself.

Which insurance plans help with dental implants?
Since Original Medicare does not cover the costs of an implant, one can sign up for Medicare Advantage or opt for a separate, stand-alone insurance plan. Here is a closer look at both options:

Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage, also referred to as Medicare Part C, offers additional benefits than Original Medicare, such as hearing, dental, and vision care. It is optional, provided by private insurance companies in partnership with the government. But note that not all Medicare Advantage plans cover implants. Some may only cover routine cleaning, dental exams, and X-rays. Before signing up, one must speak to the provider to confirm if the preferred implant procedures are included. An advantage is that they come with potentially lower premiums, making them suitable even outside the scope of dental expenditure.

Stand-alone insurance
Those who do not want to consider Medicare Advantage can purchase stand-alone insurance. While Medicare covers a range of health services, a stand-alone policy protects against a specific risk or cost, such as dental procedures. However, many people do not find it suitable because they need to pay a higher premium.

What are the add-on dental insurance options for seniors on Medicare?
Senior citizens with Original Medicare may not get relief from the costs. Like anyone else, they must choose from the two options mentioned above. It is advisable for seniors to opt for Medicare Advantage as it offers more benefits at a lower cost. Some insurance companies with the best dental plans for seniors on Medicare are UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Humana, and Kaiser Permanente. These companies may have policies specially designed for seniors. They also offer various savings plans to bring down the price further, making them suitable for many.

Irrespective of the type, it is best to have an insurance plan that offers comprehensive coverage for dental implants, even if one has to pay a slightly higher premium. When choosing an insurance company, a few must-consider factors include their network, discounts, waiting periods, and fee structure. Further, individuals must compare a few options and do some prior research on how to get help with dental implants to save as much money as possible.