Dental Insurance Articles
Teeth Whitening Coverage Under Dental Insurance Plans
2010-08-02
Teeth whitening is fast becoming the norm rather than the exception. While there are rapidly expanding options for over-the-counter teeth whitening products-everything from trays to strips-having professional teeth whitening services is still a popular option for those who are serious about having a white, radiant smile. Professional dental services also include a range of semi-permanent and permanent options that cannot be found over-the-counter, including porcelain veneers, bonding, and in-office one-shot whitening processes that eliminate the need for using trays once or twice per day over a two to three week period. With all of these professional options, many people are searching for a dental insurance quote that will include teeth whitening.
This is why the question on many people's minds these days is-is teeth whitening covered by dental insurance plans? The simplest answer is-usually not. When it comes to a dental insurance quote, teeth whitening is almost always considered "cosmetic dentistry," and as such, will not be covered by most dental insurance plans. In the insurance industry, the word cosmetic is just another word for elective or optional, and insurance quotes highlight medically necessary procedures only. However, this does bring to light a loophole by which teeth whitening services might be covered by dental insurance. If the insured needs a mouth restoration or reconstruction, if a dental procedure damages or discolors the teeth such as when orthodontia causes discoloration to the enamel, or if there is some other circumstance by which recoloration of the teeth can be lumped in with medically necessary dental work, then the insurance plan may have a provision to provide at least partial coverage for teeth whitening services that may include bleaching, bonding, veneers or other color restoration services. This is why it is so important to review a dental insurance quote thoroughly with the insurance agent in order to understand all the cases whereby medically necessary and possibly cosmetic dental surgery may be eligible for claims and reimbursement through the insurance company.
It is important to remember that because cosmetic dentistry is not covered under most dental insurance policies, there will be no official recourse for poorly done work other than to deal with the practitioner directly for redress. It is important to research the qualifications of the dentist who will be performing the cosmetic dental procedure to ensure high quality work. Risks associated with such work include damage to the tooth's enamel and to the roots of the treated teeth. While the procedure may not be covered by insurance, it is still advisable to seek professional counsel from the family dentist prior to agreeing to any cosmetic dental procedure. This can save time, pain and money in the long run.