Is Cosmetic Dentistry Covered by Insurance?
Cosmetic DentistryOne of the biggest barriers to getting a smile makeover is cost. Patients often ask, 'Will my insurance pay for veneers or whitening?'
Dental insurance is designed to cover *essential* health needs, not aesthetic ones. Because of this, purely cosmetic procedures are rarely covered. However, there is a gray area where 'cosmetic' and 'restorative' overlap, and that is where you might find some financial help.
The General Rule: Need vs. Want
Insurance companies categorize procedures into two buckets:
- Restorative (Medically Necessary): Fixing a broken tooth, filling a cavity, or treating gum disease. These are typically covered (50-80%).
- Cosmetic (Elective): Whitening, veneers for straight teeth, or gum contouring. These are typically NOT covered (0%).
The Loophole: Restorative 'Cosmetic' Procedures
If a procedure improves your smile *but also* fixes a health problem, insurance may pay for a portion of it. For example:
- Crowns: If you need a crown because a tooth is broken (health need), you can choose an all-porcelain white crown (cosmetic benefit). Insurance will pay the standard rate for a crown.
- Gum Grafting: If your gums are receding and exposing roots (health need), a graft will also make your smile look better. This is often covered.
- Orthodontics: Some plans cover braces if they correct a bite that is causing jaw pain or chewing issues.
Financing Options
Since insurance likely won't foot the whole bill, most cosmetic dentists offer flexible payment options to make treatment accessible:
- CareCredit: A popular healthcare credit card that often offers 0% interest financing for 6-24 months.
- In-House Payment Plans: Some offices allow you to split the cost over several monthly payments directly with them.
- HSA/FSA: You can use your pre-tax Health Savings Account dollars for many procedures that have a restorative component.