For people with chipped, cracked, discolored, or irregularly shaped teeth, dental veneers are a wonderful solution for restoring their healthy, radiant smile. At $400 to $2000 per tooth, veneers can get pricey, but depending on the materials used and the patient’s oral hygiene practice, they can last from 5 to 15 years. Unfortunately, because veneers are considered a cosmetic dental treatment, they are not typically covered by insurance. There are some circumstances, however, in which insurance plans will partially cover the cost of dental veneers. Here’s what you need to know.
Restorative dentistry vs cosmetic dentistry
Most dental plans cover restorative dental procedures but not cosmetic dental procedures. Restorative dentistry refers to basic or major dental procedures that keep your teeth healthy and functional. These include fillings, root canals, bridges, crowns, dentures, and other medically necessary procedures aimed at correcting or preventing dental issues that affect the patient’s oral health and functioning. Cosmetic dentistry refers to elective procedures that are done for aesthetic purposes only. These include teeth whitening, bonding, and other procedures that enhance the appearance but do not improve functionality. Typically, dental veneers fall into the category of cosmetic dentistry, and are therefore not covered by insurance, but there are exceptions to this rule.
Dental veneers can be used for both restorative and cosmetic purposes
While dental veneers do enhance the appearance of a healthy smile, they can also be used to restore functionality and prevent future dental issues. When veneers are used to optimize oral health and functioning, they are sometimes covered by insurance plans. It’s important to note that every insurance company and every insurance plan is different, and the only way to know for sure if your veneers are covered is to contact your benefits administrator. In general, dental veneers may be considered restorative if:
If your dentist is placing veneers on your teeth for restorative purposes, the billing specialist will need to indicate on your claim that the procedure was performed to repair damage, prevent deterioration, or reasons of medical necessity.
Need dental veneers? Come see us at University Dental in San Diego!
A beautiful, radiant smile does more than just look good in a mirror. It boosts confidence, improves mood, and can even have a positive impact on your career and social relationships. The more confident you feel about your smile, the more you’ll share it with others, making the world a more beautiful, friendlier place. Stained, chipped, or cracked teeth can make you want to hide your smile, but dental veneers can help you set your smile free. Whether you’re looking to enhance your appearance or restore functioning, we can help. And if your insurance plan does not cover your veneers, ask us about financing options. For more information or to schedule a consultation or appointment today, give us a call at (619) 582-4224.
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