With healthcare costs steadily increasing in India, even basic dental procedures can put an additional burden on you. Various dental treatments, such as orthodontic procedures and root extractions, require significant out-of-pocket expenses.

However, often people think these expenses are automatically covered under their health insurance policy. Most standard health insurance plans do not provide comprehensive coverage for routine dental treatments. In this blog, we will understand what is covered and excluded in dental insurance plans.

Understanding Dental Insurance

Dental insurance is a type of health insurance policy that covers eligible dental expenses and procedures. It is available as standalone and add-on covers under different health insurance plans.

The dental insurance coverage may vary from provider to provider. Before buying the plan, it is important to read the policy wording to know the inclusions, exclusions, etc of the plan.

Dental Procedures Covered Under Health Insurance Policy With Dental Cover

The coverage offered under a health insurance policy with dental cover depends on your insurer and policy terms. Some of the commonly covered dental treatments include:

In-patient Treatment

Dental cover for treatments that require hospitalisation due to an accident, injury, or a medically necessary illness. Eligible expenses may include hospital room charges, surgeon’s fees, and other treatment-related costs, as per the policy terms.

OPD Treatment

Some health insurance policies with OPD benefits cover outpatient dental procedures that do not require hospitalisation. This may include treatments such as tooth fillings, tooth extractions, root canal therapy, and consultations, subject to the policy’s coverage limits and conditions.

Accident-related Dental Procedures

Most health insurance plans cover dental procedures if the damage is caused by an accident. For example, treatment for broken or knocked-out teeth following a road accident or fall may be covered if hospitalisation is required.

What is Not Covered Under a Health Insurance Policy With Dental Cover?

There are various exclusions which are not covered under the health insurance policy with dental cover.

Cosmetic Procedures

A health insurance policy with dental cover does not cover procedures to improve appearance, such as teeth whitening, veneers, etc. If the procedure is medically necessary due to an accident or injury, it may be covered.

Self-inflicted Injuries

Dental treatments required for injuries resulting from intentional self-harm or attempted suicide are typically excluded from health insurance coverage.

Adventure Sport Injuries

Any expenses incurred for dental treatment following injuries sustained while participating in hazardous or adventure sports are generally not covered unless the policy.

How to Buy Health Insurance with Dental Cover?

Buying a health insurance policy with dental coverage is an easy process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

  • Step 1: Understand your dental needs and requirements before buying a plan.
  • Step 2: Compare plans from different insurers and choose the one that fits your needs.
  • Step 3: After selecting the plan, visit the insurance provider’s official website.
  • Step 4: Choose an adequate health insurance plan with dental coverage.
  • Step 5: Fill out the necessary personal details and upload the required documents.
  • Step 6: Once done, make a payment for a health insurance policy with dental cover.
  • Step 7: After successful payment, the policy document will be sent to the registered email address.

Conclusion

Dental treatments can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses, especially when they involve surgeries or emergency care. With a health insurance plan with dental cover, you can reduce these hefty dental expenses.

Insurers like TATA AIG offer dental covers with their individual, family and other health insurance plans. You can review the coverage, inclusions, exclusions, waiting period and more from various insurers to make informed decisions.