Many people desire a whiter brighter smile. One popular method to achieve this is dental bleaching. However, the cost of dental bleaching can be a concern for some individuals. One question that often arises is whether dental insurance covers the cost of dental bleaching.
Unfortunately, the answer is not straightforward. Whether dental bleaching is covered by dental insurance depends on the individual policy and the insurance provider. In general dental insurance plans do not typically cover cosmetic procedures including dental bleaching as they are considered elective procedures.
Factors to Consider
When determining whether dental bleaching is covered by dental insurance there are several factors to consider –
- Type of Insurance Plan – Some dental insurance plans may offer coverage for dental bleaching as part of their cosmetic services. It is important to review your insurance policy to see if dental bleaching is included in your coverage.
- Reason for Bleaching – If dental bleaching is being used to address a dental health issue such as stains caused by medication or trauma it may be considered a medically necessary procedure and may be covered by insurance.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs – Even if dental insurance does not cover dental bleaching it is still important to discuss the cost of the procedure with your dentist. Some dental offices offer payment plans or financing options to help make dental bleaching more affordable.
Alternative Options
If dental insurance does not cover dental bleaching there are alternative options to consider –
- Over the Counter Products – There are many over the counter dental bleaching products available such as whitening toothpaste strips and gels. While these products may not be as effective as professional dental bleaching they can still help improve the appearance of your teeth.
- Professional Dental Discounts – Some dental offices offer discounts on cosmetic procedures including dental bleaching for patients without insurance coverage. It is worth inquiring about any available discounts or promotions.
- Flexible Spending Accounts – Some employers offer flexible spending accounts (FSAs) that can be used to pay for dental bleaching and other cosmetic dental procedures. FSAs allow you to set aside pre tax dollars to use for medical expenses not covered by insurance.
Whether dental bleaching is covered by dental insurance depends on your specific policy and insurance provider. While many dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures such as dental bleaching there may be exceptions for medically necessary cases.
If dental insurance does not cover dental bleaching there are alternative options available to help you achieve a whiter brighter smile. Over the counter products professional discounts and flexible spending accounts are all options to consider.
It is important to discuss your options with your dentist and review your insurance policy to determine the best course of action for achieving the smile you desire.
