It’s not uncommon to be unsatisfied with the look of your smile, but fortunately, cosmetic dentistry encompasses various dental procedures that can be used to enhance smile aesthetics. However, people often hesitate to proceed with treatments due to cost concerns. Although dental insurance covers preventive and restorative treatments, does it include cosmetic dentistry? Keep reading to learn whether dental insurance can lower treatment costs for those interested in improving the look of their pearly whites.
What Does Dental Insurance Usually Cover?
Dental insurance intends to alleviate the financial strain of dental care and improve its affordability so that patients can more easily access the care they need. Insurance coverage varies across different dental treatments, and not all procedures receive the same level of coverage.
Dental insurance typically covers preventive procedures entirely, such as checkups and cleanings, whereas restorative treatments like dental fillings or root canals may receive 50-80% coverage. The level of coverage is contingent on the classification of the procedure by your insurance provider.
Is Cosmetic Dentistry Ever Medically Necessary?
While cosmetic dental treatments like teeth whitening serve a purely aesthetic purpose, some boundaries for other procedures are more ambiguous. For instance, individuals with damage to their teeth due to accidents may seek dental crowns to restore their smiles.
Individuals with minor cavities may require dental fillings to restore the tooth’s function and appearance. Larger cavities or tooth infections will likely need dental crowns. Since these treatments provide both restorative and cosmetic benefits, they may receive partial coverage.
The coverage of cosmetic dentistry by dental insurance is conditional, and only partial coverage is available in some cases. If you are considering cosmetic treatments, it is advisable to schedule an initial consultation with your dentist. With the guidance of a professional, you can make informed decisions on the best way to work towards achieving a radiant and beautiful smile you’re sure to adore!
About the Practice
At Newport Dental Associates, Dr. Nicholas Baldelli and his welcoming team provide comprehensive dental services to help you achieve your oral health goals. From preventive to cosmetic and restorative treatments, their extensive range of services caters to the varying dental needs of patients. Whether you want to revamp your smile or maintain its vitality, Dr. Baldelli can guide you through every step of the process. For more information on how to improve the look of your pearly whites or to book an appointment with the team at Newport Dental Associates, visit their website or call them at (401) 847-7662.