Dental implants can completely transform your smile—but they also come with a hefty price tag. If you’re considering implants, you’re probably asking the big question:
“Does dental insurance cover implants?”
The answer: Sometimes—but not always. Coverage varies significantly by plan, and many traditional policies offer little to no help with implant costs. In this guide, we’ll break down what to expect, how to find dental insurance that does cover implants, and smart ways to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
💰 What’s the Cost of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are one of the most effective, long-lasting solutions for missing teeth. But quality comes at a cost:
- Single tooth implant: $3,000–$5,000
- Implant-supported bridge: $5,000–$15,000
- Full mouth implants (All-on-4): $20,000–$50,000+
These prices typically include the implant post, abutment, and crown—but not additional procedures like bone grafting or extractions, which add more to the total.
🦷 Do Dental Insurance Plans Cover Implants?
Here’s the tricky part. Traditional dental insurance often considers implants “cosmetic” and doesn’t cover them. But things are changing. Today, some premium or high-tier dental plans do offer partial coverage for implants.
✅ What You Might Get Covered:
- The surgical placement of the implant post
- The crown (the visible part)
- Associated procedures (e.g., X-rays, extractions, anesthesia)
🚫 What’s Often Not Covered:
- Bone grafting
- Tooth removal (sometimes)
- Full implant cost (most plans only cover a percentage)
🏆 Best Dental Insurance Plans for Implant Coverage (2025)
Here are a few providers known for offering better-than-average implant benefits:
1. Guardian Direct – Diamond Plan
- Covers up to 50% of major procedures, including implants
- $1,500 annual maximum benefit
- No waiting period for preventive; 12-month wait for implants
2. Delta Dental – PPO Premium Plan
- Offers up to 50% coverage for implants
- Large national network
- Typically has a 6–12 month waiting period
3. Cigna Dental 1500
- Covers major procedures (including implants) at 50%
- $1,500 annual benefit
- Orthodontic coverage included
4. Spirit Dental & Vision
- Up to $5,000 annual max (rare!)
- No waiting periods on major services
- Implant procedures included in major care
5. Denali Dental
- Coverage increases the longer you stay enrolled
- Up to 100% after 4 years
- Implant coverage varies by tier
📝 Tips for Finding the Right Plan
Here’s how to shop smart:
✅ Read the fine print: Make sure “implants” are specifically listed as covered.
✅ Watch the waiting period: Some plans require you to wait 6–12 months before major procedures are covered.
✅ Check annual max limits: Most dental plans cap annual benefits at $1,000–$2,000, which might only cover part of an implant.
✅ Consider discount dental plans: These aren’t insurance, but they offer pre-negotiated implant rates with certain dentists—great if you’re paying out of pocket.
🧠 What If My Insurance Doesn’t Cover Implants?
You’ve got options:
- Dental savings plans: These give you discounted implant pricing through participating providers.
- Health savings accounts (HSA) or flexible spending accounts (FSA): Use tax-free funds to pay for implants.
- Payment plans: Many dentists offer financing through companies like CareCredit or in-house plans.
- Dental schools: Teaching clinics often offer implants at reduced rates under professional supervision.
✅ Final Thoughts
Getting dental implants is a big decision—and a big investment. While not all dental insurance covers implants, more providers are starting to include them in premium plans. If you’re planning ahead, compare policies carefully and consider the long-term benefits of having strong, natural-looking teeth again.
💡 Pro Tip: If implants are medically necessary (due to trauma, illness, etc.), your health insurance might cover part of the cost.