Securing a captivating smile may become your reality, yet it frequently comes hand in hand-with a substantial price tag. When you possess dental coverage, it's a common occurrence to ponder whether elective dental procedures such as dental Facade find their way into your policy's embrace.
Regrettably, in most instances, the response tends to lean towards the negative. Nevertheless, prior to relinquishing this aspiration, it's prudent to delve into the exceptions to this established norm. Furthermore, exploring avenues to mitigate the cost of acquiring Facade is a course of action worth considering.
Why Contemplating Facades is Worthwhile
Much like a counterfeit fingernail conceals a natural one, a Facade disguises the surface of a tooth, creating a deceptive but aesthetically pleasing appearance. Crafted to mimic the look and texture of authentic teeth, the Facade consists of thin layers of porcelain or resin composite material, each typically about one millimeter in thickness.
Dissimilar to a dental crown that envelops an entire tooth, Facade are exclusively affixed to the front portion of the tooth. Furthermore, while dental crowns are primarily employed for the restoration of teeth, often following a root canal procedure, Facade predominantly serve cosmetic purposes.
They are proficient in concealing discolorations, rectifying irregularly shaped teeth, closing gaps, and masking chips, fractures, and damaged teeth. The number of teeth receiving Facade may vary based on the underlying rationale.
The process of acquiring a Facade involves a sequence of at least three distinct appointments. Initially, the dentist conducts x-rays, captures photographs, and takes impressions of the teeth. Any cavities or other dental issues present in the patient must be addressed before proceeding with the veneer application.
In the subsequent appointment, the dentist prepares the tooth by delicately removing a portion of the surface enamel. This step provides the tooth with the requisite texture for the veneer's adhesion. Following this procedure, the patient is fitted with a temporary veneer, allowing them to continue with their eating and drinking habits.
After a span of approximately two weeks, the exceptionally durable veneer, expertly crafted in a dental laboratory, is affixed using bonding cement. Resin composite Facade generally maintain their integrity for about five years, while those crafted from porcelain can endure for over a decade.
The Price Tag of Exceptional Dental Aesthetics
Concealing imperfections with Facade can come at a substantial expense. Resin composite, a material akin to what is commonly used for dental fillings, can range from $400 to $1,500 per tooth. On the other hand, porcelain, known for its premium quality, demands a higher investment, typically falling within the range of $925 to $2,500 per tooth. In sprawling urban areas, where the cost of living is notably elevated, these figures can easily surpass the aforementioned averages.
It is imperative to keep in mind that these prices solely pertain to the Facade themselves. Should a patient have existing cavities or require other dental procedures before embarking on the veneer journey, this will entail an additional cost. Furthermore, contingent upon the dentist chosen, there might be an added fee for the initial consultation and the necessary x-ray examinations as well.
Facade and Restorative Dentistry Protection
Dental insurance policies distinguish between cosmetic and restorative procedures. Cosmetic treatments are generally considered elective, which means that services like Facade, teeth whitening, and even dental implants may not be encompassed by insurance coverage.
If a procedure is deemed medically necessary, insurance is more likely to provide coverage. Restorative dentistry can, under certain circumstances, fulfill this requirement. For instance, a dental implant aimed at replacing teeth lost due to an accident could be considered a medically necessary procedure. Similarly, a veneer designed to rectify a damaged tooth may fall into this category.
Patients are advised to thoroughly examine their benefits to determine the extent of their coverage. Moreover, discussing the proposed treatment with the dentist is crucial to ascertain whether there exists a valid medical rationale for the dental work.
If the procedure is solely intended to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the teeth, it is highly probable that an insurance claim would be denied. Conversely, if a veneer holds a dental health benefit, insurance might contribute towards a portion of the expenses. For example, a veneer that shields the exposed edge of a fractured tooth or corrects a malocclusion by realigning a misshapen or pointed tooth may be recognized as a valuable restorative measure.
Surprisingly, the replacement of a Facade is often more likely to receive insurance coverage than their initial placement. This is because, when a Facade is installed, a portion of the tooth enamel is typically removed. As a result, when it becomes necessary to replace them, it is viewed as a crucial step to safeguard the patient's oral health. Beneath the veneer, the tooth remains vulnerable and potentially compromised.
Certain insurance policies allow for the addition of benefits if the insured party is willing to pay a higher premium. It may be feasible to extend coverage for cosmetic procedures, orthodontics, and even teeth whitening. To determine which procedures can be covered and at what percentage of the total cost, it is advisable to review your policy or consult your benefits administrator.
Reducing the Cost of Facade
There are several avenues to explore for reducing the expense of Facade, especially if you lack dental insurance or if your current dental coverage excludes this procedure.
Choice of Material: Opting for resin composite Facade instead of porcelain can lead to cost savings, although it's worth noting that porcelain Facade have a longer lifespan, lasting twice as long. Your dentist can guide you in making the best selection based on your dental history. For instance, individuals who grind their teeth might find porcelain Facade more durable due to their ability to withstand wear and tear.
- Visibility: Facade are rarely applied to molars since they are not readily visible. If your veneer's purpose is mainly cosmetic, you might consider having it placed exclusively on the most prominent teeth. Many individuals choose to have Facade on their upper front six or eight teeth while skipping the lower ones. The decision hinges on the imperfections you wish to conceal and what aspects of your smile are most noticeable.
- Timing: Although insurance may not cover the cost of the Facade, it may contribute to the expense of preliminary examinations, x-rays, and fillings. However, most insurance policies have waiting periods, necessitating at least six months between appointments. It might be prudent to delay getting a Facade for a few months to leverage your insurance benefits for the initial examinations and any essential preliminary dental work.
- Travel: Given that the cost of dental procedures can vary based on location and the cost of living, you may discover a more affordable option for Facade in a different city, state, or even country. Travelers can often find excellent deals on a wide range of elective dental treatments that are not typically covered by insurance.
Heading to get the Facade
Opting for a Facade is becoming an increasingly popular choice. You can seize the opportunity to benefit from more cost-effective providers in various regions of the country and internationally. This becomes the perfect solution when your dental insurance does not extend its coverage to the Facade.
The Dental Health Society can assist you in identifying skilled cosmetic dentists who offer veneer procedures at a reduced cost. After your treatment, you can take a trip and explore a new destination or select a city where you can reconnect with friends and family.
To commence your exploration of the possibility of getting Facade, implants, or any superficial dental procedure, simply complete our online search tool, and we'll take care of the rest.