Dental Insurance – Time to Reevaluate Exclusions?
I’ve been experiencing jaw clenching and teeth grinding at night, and I need a night guard to protect my teeth. I’ve noticed some wear on a few teeth, and my dentist even found a minor chip on one of my back teeth, likely caused by this issue. Unfortunately, my insurance plan excludes coverage for night guards. However, it seems that not using one could lead to higher costs for both me and the insurance company in the long run, especially since the night guard costs $750. Is there any way to persuade my insurance provider that covering this expense would be beneficial for them to prevent future dental repairs? Or is that approach unlikely to yield results?
It sounds like you’re in a bit of a pickle! While it can be frustrating that dental insurance excludes night guards, you might have a few options to consider.
First, check if your insurance policy has any clauses about medical necessity—some insurers might cover night guards if you can demonstrate that they are essential for preventing more costly dental issues down the line. You could ask your dentist to write a letter explaining your situation, the risks associated with not using a night guard, and how it could prevent future treatments.
Another approach is to appeal your insurance company’s decision. Make sure you gather any supporting documentation, including dental records, photographs, or any exam results that substantiate your need for a night guard.
Finally, you could also check if your insurance allows for any flexibility in coverage for devices like a night guard due to extenuating circumstances, especially if you’re facing potential future costs for dental repairs. Even if they don’t cover it initially, they might reconsider upon review of the risks involved.
Good luck, and I hope you find a solution that works for you!