Does Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover Dental Implants?
- Some Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plans may cover dental implants, though dental benefits can vary from one plan to the next and may not be available with all plans. Learn more about BCBS Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare dental coverage.
While Original Medicare (Medicare Parts A and B) doesn’t typically cover any routine dental care, some Medicare Advantage plans – such as Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plans – can cover routine dental care benefits Original Medicare doesn't cover.
Although plan benefits and availability can vary, some Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Medicare Advantage plans may cover dental implants. You should check directly with your plan provider or your plan Evidence of Coverage to learn more about whether dental implants are covered by your plan.
When Do BCBS Medicare Plans Pay for Dental Implants?
Dental implants may not covered by all Medicare Advantage plans. Some plans may offer an annual allowance beneficiaries can use to help pay for certain dental care services or items.
Depending on the plan you have, you might have an annual allowance for dental care that you can use to help pay for dental implants.
While some Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare plans may not cover a dental implant itself, some plans may cover some of the things related to the procedure. For example, the process of getting implants will require an dental exam and some X-rays, both of which may be covered by a Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plan that includes dental coverage.
Preparation for oral surgery may require a tooth extraction to clear way for the implants, and tooth extractions may generally be covered by some plans. You will likely be put under anesthesia during the procedure, which may also be covered. A Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plan that includes dental coverage may also pay for the crown or bridge that is used on top of the dental implant.
So while the implant itself may not always be covered, you may be able to receive coverage for other important dental care services.
Call the number on your Medicare Advantage plan card to find out more about what dental services are covered by your plan and how much they may cost.
Should I Get Implants Through BCBS?
Implants can offer some advantages over non-implanted dentures, such as more stability in the mouth, stronger chewing and improved speech and appearance.
Dental implants can cost anywhere between $1,500 and $6,000 per tooth out of pocket, depending on the exact nature of the implants and the specific type of issue being addressed.
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