Does Insurance Cover Teeth-Whitening – It has been observed that the majority of dental insurance plans do not provide coverage for teeth-whitening procedures. However, a limited number of dental insurance providers do offer some level of coverage for teeth whitening, albeit with certain conditions. For instance, these policies may impose a waiting period before the coverage for teeth whitening becomes effective.
Therefore, if you are considering teeth whitening and have dental insurance, it is crucial to thoroughly review your policy. Or contact your insurance provider to determine if teeth whitening are covered. And if there are any waiting periods associated with such coverage. By doing so, you can avoid any potential surprises and make informed decisions about your dental
Dental Insurance Plans that Cover Teeth Whitening
Company Dental Insurance Plan Name
| · Ameritas: PrimeStar Access |
| · Anthem: Essential Choice PPO Platinum |
| · Delta Dental: Delta Dental PPO Individual-Premium Plan |
| · Guardian Direct: Diamond |
How much Does Teeth Whitening Cost with Insurance?
The expense of teeth whitening when utilizing dental insurance depends on the extent of coverage and reimbursement provided by the specific insurance plan. Here are some illustrative examples of teeth-whitening costs with insurance:
The Delta Dental PPO For instance offers coverage for teeth whitening at 80% after a six-month waiting period. If the cost of whitening is $600, this Delta Dental plan would reimburse $480. This leaves the insured individual responsible for the remaining $120.
On the other hand, the Guardian Direct Diamond plan provides reimbursement for teeth whitening at 50% after a six-month waiting period. In this scenario, if the procedure costs $600, the insured individual would pay $300. While the dental plan would cover the other half of the expense.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost without Insurance?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the typical cost of in-office teeth whitening for a single arch. This refers to external whitening of either the top or bottom teeth, is approximately $293. Consequently, the cost of having both the upper and lower sets of teeth professionally whitened would amount to around $600.
However, it is worth noting that the cost of teeth whitening can be significantly higher if internal bleaching is required. On average, internal tooth whitening is priced at approximately $272 per tooth. Therefore, if internal whitening is necessary for all eight top teeth that are visible when smiling, the total cost could exceed $2,100. These figures underscore the importance of understanding the potential costs associated with teeth-whitening procedures and the factors that can influence them.
How Long Does Tooth Whitening Last?
The duration of the effects of in-office professional teeth whitening typically spans approximately one year. With the longevity of teeth whitening outcomes being contingent on the specific bleaching technique employed. It is important to manage expectations, as a single in-office whitening session. Or the use of a single whitening strip kit is unlikely to yield permanent results. This is especially in cases of severe staining where multiple whitening treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome.
Given the unique nature of each individual’s teeth, it is challenging to predict precisely how long the effects of a particular whitening treatment will endure. Additionally, lifestyle factors play a significant role in determining the longevity of whitening results. For instance, habits such as consuming soda, coffee, tea, red wine. Or smoking can diminish the duration for which teeth remain white following a whitening procedure. Understanding these factors can help individuals manage their expectations and make informed decisions regarding their teeth-whitening treatments.
FAQs
Why doesn’t dental insurance cover teeth whitening?
Dental insurance usually covers preventive, restorative, and medically necessary procedures. However, teeth whitening is primarily a cosmetic treatment aimed at improving the appearance of teeth rather than addressing functional or oral health issues. As a result, it is less likely to be covered by insurance.
Are there any exceptions when dental insurance covers teeth whitening?
In some cases, teeth whitening may be covered by insurance under specific circumstances. Coverage can vary depending on the insurance plan and its terms. For instance, insurance might cover teeth whitening if it is deemed medically necessary to address a particular dental health issue or if it is required due to a traumatic dental injury.
Are there any supplemental dental insurance plans for teeth whitening?
It’s unlikely to find a supplemental dental insurance plan that specifically covers whitening or cosmetic services. The only way to get supplemental dental insurance for whitening would be to purchase a second dental insurance plan that covers such treatments. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of dual coverage. As a second dental plan raises your overall premium and you don’t get double the benefits.
What are some ways to reduce the cost of teeth whitening?
Some ways to reduce the cost of teeth whitening include using over-the-counter products, taking advantage of dental insurance plans that cover part of the procedure. Or financing options, and discounts and promotions offered by dental offices. It’s essential to consult with a dentist to determine the best option for you and to get an accurate cost estimate.
