The loss of a tooth, whether due to injury, decay or age, can significantly impact one’s quality of life. It can affect one’s confidence, ability to eat and speak, and overall well-being. Fortunately, a dental implant has emerged as a reliable and practical remedy for a missing tooth. Yet, opting for dental implants can be pricey, and not everyone can afford it. Many people in India are unaware that they may have options to help offset the cost of dental implants. This article delves into various methods to help cover dental treatment costs.
Are dental implants covered by health insurance?
Typically, standard health insurance plans exclude coverage for dental treatments. The patient must bear any expenses for dental procedures that aim to improve facial appearance. Health insurance providers will only cover dental procedures that are medically necessary and recommended by a certified medical practitioner. In cases where a condition has the potential to become life-threatening if left untreated, health insurance will also provide coverage for dental treatment.
Several insurers have recently started providing dental insurance as an add-on. This additional coverage offers protection for oral check-ups, root canal procedures, extractions, preventive treatment, and filings. On the other hand, dental insurance usually excludes cosmetic treatments like dentures, prostheses, jaw alignment, and orthodontics.
Dental treatment can involve costly procedures. Hence it is extremely important to go through the policy wording to comprehend the exclusions of your healthcare plan. If you have a doubt and require clarification about the exclusions and limitations of your medical policy, you must reach out to your insurance provider. You can talk to the insurer’s customer care department or visit the nearest branch of the insurance provider. It would be wise to have all your queries answered before you invest in the policy.
When does insurance cover dental implants?
Insurance coverage for dental implants is typically contingent upon specific circumstances:
- Accidental Dental Injury: If teeth are damaged or lost due to an accident, certain health insurance policies may cover the cost of necessary dental procedures, including implants, especially if hospitalisation is involved.
- Comprehensive Health Plans with Dental Riders: Some insurers offer comprehensive health insurance plans that include optional dental riders, which may cover a portion of the costs associated with dental implants.
How to get dental implants covered by medical insurance?
You can cover dental-related treatment costs in the following ways.
Purchase a dental insurance rider to supplement your health insurance coverage and deal with dental issues.
The Government of India offers several schemes that provide eligible individuals with free or subsidised dental treatment.
Many dental clinics in India offer payment plans that allow patients to pay for treatment in instalments over time. This can be a good option for those who cannot afford to pay for such treatments upfront.
This is becoming an increasingly popular way to raise funds for medical expenses, including dental treatment. Multiple platforms in India allow individuals to create fundraising campaigns and share them on social media to raise money for dental treatment. One must bear in mind that such platforms do not cater to people looking for cosmetic enhancements.
Many dental colleges offer treatment at a reduced cost compared to private clinics. Dental students conduct various procedures and offer treatment under the supervision of experienced dentists. This can be a good option for those who cannot afford private dental treatment.
Things to remember when buying dental insurance
When selecting a health insurance policy with dental coverage, consider the following:
- Coverage Scope: If you are relying on a health insurance policy for family, verify whether the policy covers only basic dental procedures or extends to major treatments like implants.
- Waiting Periods: Be aware of any waiting periods before dental benefits become active.
- Sub-Limits and Co-Payments: Understand any sub-limits on dental procedures and whether co-payments are required, which could affect out-of-pocket expenses.
- Network of Dental Providers: Check if the insurance plan has a network of dental practitioners, which can facilitate cashless treatments and potentially lower costs.
- Exclusions: Carefully read the policy's fine print to identify any exclusions, such as cosmetic dental procedures, to avoid unexpected expenses.
Conclusion
While obtaining coverage for dental implants through health insurance in India can seem challenging, it is not as complicated as it looks. By properly researching and selecting comprehensive health insurance policies that include dental benefits, understanding policy specifics and maintaining thorough documentation, individuals can enhance their chances of receiving financial assistance for dental implant procedures. Prioritising oral health and aligning it with suitable health insurance coverage is a smart strategy for managing dental care expenses effectively.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.