What Dental Procedures Are Covered by Medical Insurance?
Introduction
If you’re like most people, you probably think of dental insurance as separate from medical insurance. While dental insurance usually covers routine check-ups, cleanings, and basic procedures, it typically doesn’t cover more extensive dental work. That leaves many people wondering what dental procedures, if any, are covered by their medical insurance. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to that question in depth.
Understanding Medical Insurance Coverage for Dental Procedures
Before we dive into the specifics of what dental procedures are covered by medical insurance, it’s important to understand how medical insurance covers dental procedures. While dental insurance is specifically designed to cover dental procedures, medical insurance may cover certain dental procedures in certain circumstances. These circumstances usually involve the dental procedure being necessary for a patient’s overall health.
Basic Dental Procedures Covered by Medical Insurance
While medical insurance doesn’t typically cover routine dental care, there are a few basic dental procedures that it may cover. These procedures include:
1. Extractions
If a tooth is causing a medical issue, such as an infection or abscess, medical insurance may cover the cost of extraction.
2. Oral Surgery
Certain types of oral surgery, such as the removal of a tumor or biopsy of oral tissue, may be covered by medical insurance.
3. Trauma
If a patient experiences trauma to their teeth, such as a broken tooth due to an accident, medical insurance may cover the cost of the necessary dental work.
Dental Procedures Not Covered by Medical Insurance
While medical insurance may cover certain dental procedures, there are many dental procedures that it doesn’t cover. These procedures include:
1. Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry, such as teeth whitening and veneers, is not typically covered by medical insurance.
2. Orthodontics
While orthodontic treatment is often necessary for a patient’s overall health, it is not typically covered by medical insurance.
3. Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry, such as fillings and crowns, is not typically covered by medical insurance.
How to Determine if Your Medical Insurance Covers Dental Procedures
If you’re unsure whether or not your medical insurance covers a specific dental procedure, there are a few steps you can take to find out:
1. Contact Your Insurance Provider
The first step is to contact your insurance provider and ask them about the specific dental procedure you’re interested in. They’ll be able to tell you whether or not it’s covered and what your out-of-pocket costs will be.
2. Speak with Your Dentist
Your dentist will also be able to tell you whether or not a specific dental procedure is covered by medical insurance. They may also be able to recommend alternative treatments that are covered by your insurance.
Conclusion
While medical insurance doesn’t typically cover routine dental care, there are certain dental procedures that it may cover. If you’re unsure whether or not your medical insurance covers a specific dental procedure, the best course of action is to contact your insurance provider and speak with your dentist. With the right information, you can make informed decisions about your dental health and ensure that you’re getting the care you need.
FAQs
Can I use my medical insurance for routine dental cleanings?
No, medical insurance typically does not cover routine dental cleanings.
Will medical insurance cover the cost of braces?
No, medical insurance does not typically cover orthodontic treatment.
Will medical insurance cover the cost of dentures?
It depends on the circumstances. If dentures are medically necessary, such as in the case of severe periodontal disease, medical insurance may cover the cost.
