Are Dental Implants Covered by Dental Insurance?
October 4, 2025
Dental implants are one of the most effective and long-lasting ways to replace missing teeth. However, one of the most common questions patients ask before starting treatment is: “Are dental implants covered by insurance?” The answer depends on your specific insurance plan, but understanding how coverage works can help you plan financially and make the best decisions for your oral health.
Understanding What Dental Implants Are
A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once healed, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, creating a durable and realistic replacement for one or more missing teeth.
Because implants improve both the look and function of your smile, many people prefer them over other options like bridges or dentures. However, they can also be more expensive upfront, which makes insurance coverage an important factor to consider.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Implants?
Traditionally, many dental insurance plans considered implants to be a “cosmetic” procedure, and therefore didn’t offer coverage. Fortunately, that has started to change. More modern plans now recognize dental implants as a necessary restorative treatment for maintaining oral health and overall well-being.
That said, coverage still varies widely. Some plans may pay for a portion of the procedure—such as the crown or extraction—but not the implant post or abutment. Others may cover the procedure partially if it’s deemed medically necessary, such as when tooth loss affects your ability to eat or speak properly.
Parts of the Implant Process That May Be Covered
A full dental implant involves several steps, and each step may be billed separately. Depending on your insurance, coverage might apply to:
- Tooth extraction: If a damaged or decayed tooth needs to be removed first.
- Bone grafting: If you need additional bone to support the implant.
- The crown: The visible portion of the implant (some plans treat this like a standard crown).
- Diagnostic services: X-rays, CT scans, and exams related to treatment planning.
However, the implant post and abutment (the connector piece) are often the most expensive components, and these may or may not be covered.
How to Check Your Coverage
The best way to find out what’s covered is to review your insurance policy details or contact your provider directly. Ask specific questions such as:
- Does my plan include dental implants or restorative care for missing teeth?
- What percentage of the procedure is covered?
- Are there annual maximums or waiting periods?
- Is pre-authorization required before treatment?
Your dental office can also help by submitting a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Alternative Payment Options
If your insurance doesn’t cover dental implants, don’t lose hope. Many dental offices offer financing plans, payment schedules, or third-party credit options that make treatment more affordable. You can also use Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to pay for part of the cost using pre-tax dollars.
While dental insurance coverage for implants is improving, it still depends heavily on your plan. Always check with your provider and your dentist’s team before starting treatment. Even if insurance doesn’t cover everything, remember that implants are a long-term investment in your oral health—often lasting a lifetime when cared for properly.
About the Practice
Are you looking to replace missing teeth with the closest alternative? Here at Annigan Dental, Drs. Henry Hsue and Julia Frederickson can help you through the process with dental implants. We have the unique ability to place and restore implants in-house, no referrals needed! Our experienced and compassionate dental team has several years of experience in this field, so you’re getting the very best care available. Ready to start your journey to a beautiful new smile? Schedule an appointment online or call (425) 492-6898.
