Understand BCBS crown and bridge basics
If you’re checking out bcbs covered dental crown and bridge benefits, you want clear info on costs, coverage levels, and paperwork. As a retiree or caregiver, you’ll appreciate knowing what your out-of-pocket might be, and how to avoid surprises at the dentist’s office.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this article
- How BCBS FEP Dental covers crowns and bridges
- A quick glance at other major insurers
- Tips to estimate costs and find in-network care
- Ways to make the most of your benefits
What crowns and bridges cover
Crowns and bridges are Class C major services in BCBS FEP Dental plans. Crowns cap weakened or damaged teeth. Bridges fill gaps by anchoring false teeth to adjacent crowns. Both restore chewing, speech, and your smile’s look.
When you need a crown
You might get a crown if you have
- A cracked, worn, or large filling tooth
- A root canal that needs protection
- Cosmetic reshaping for stained or misshapen teeth
When you need a bridge
Bridges step in when you’re missing one or more teeth. You’ll get
- Pontic teeth (false teeth) anchored by crowns on healthy neighbors
- Help preventing bite shift and gum issues
BCBS benefit levels and limits
BCBS FEP Dental offers two benefit tiers: Standard Option and High Option. Your share and deductible depend on which you choose.
| Plan option | Deductible per person | Crown & bridge coinsurance |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Option | $75 | 50% after deductible |
| High Option | $50 | 40% after deductible |
Key points to remember
- You’re responsible for the deductible, then coinsurance kicks in
- Annual maximums apply (check your plan summary)
- Out-of-network care may cost more
Navigating prior authorization
BCBS FEP Dental recommends submitting a pretreatment estimate before you start major work. This isn’t a payment guarantee but gives you a nonbinding Explanation of Benefits (EOB). It breaks down what BCBS will likely cover and what you’ll pay.
Steps for a smooth approval
- Ask your dentist to submit a pretreatment estimate
- Include X-rays and a detailed treatment plan
- Wait for the EOB to review your share
- Confirm any changes if your plan or eligibility shifts before treatment
Compare major insurer coverage
It’s smart to know how BCBS stacks up against other big names. Here’s a quick overview for seniors who juggle dental care decisions.
Cigna restorative care
Cigna covers crowns and bridges as major services, typically at 50% coinsurance after a deductible. For details on finding an in-network dentist, check in-network restorative dental care with cigna.
Aetna restorative services
Aetna also treats crowns and bridges as Class C services, usually covering 50% after you meet your deductible. Learn more at aetna covered restorative dental services.
UHC dental work
UnitedHealthcare’s plans vary by region, but most senior plans cover bridges and crowns at 40%–50% in-network after deductible. For specifics, see restorative dental work with uhc coverage.
Delta Dental reconstruction
Delta Dental often pays 50%–60% for crowns and bridges once your deductible is done. If you’re considering a bigger rebuild, explore full mouth reconstruction delta dental coverage.
Plan your crown and bridge treatment
Knowing coverage is one thing. Planning your treatment timeline and budget is another. Here’s how to get prepped.
Estimate your out-of-pocket costs
- Request a pretreatment estimate, as noted above
- Compare costs from two to three dentists
- Check if additional treatments—like post and core buildup—affect your share
Find an in-network dentist
In-network dentists agree to BCBS’s negotiated fees, so you’ll pay less. More than 99.9% of members have at least one BCBS provider within 15 miles. To get started, search for a restorative dentist accepting bcbs insurance.
Consider alternative materials
Crowns come in several types—porcelain fused to metal, all-ceramic, gold alloys. BCBS covers the cost based on plan allowances, not material choice. If you want a premium material, be ready for extra costs.
Maximize your dental benefits
You’ve paid premiums, so it makes sense to squeeze every dollar of coverage out of your plan. Here are simple moves to boost your value.
- Schedule preventive cleanings every six months to avoid bigger fixes
- Bundle treatments in one calendar year to use up your annual maximum
- Use the AskBlue SM BCBS FEP Dental Plan Finder tool to compare options
- Track your deductible resets (they usually renew each January)
- Ask your dentist about in-office specials or senior discounts
Key takeaways
- BCBS FEP Dental covers crowns and bridges as Class C major services
- Standard Option pays 50% after a $75 deductible, High Option pays 40% after $50
- Pretreatment estimates help you plan ahead and reduce surprises
- Other insurers—Cigna, Aetna, UHC, Delta Dental—offer similar major service benefits
- In-network care saves you money, and preventive visits keep costs down
Ready to protect your smile and budget? Reach out to your dentist today to start the pretreatment estimate process. Then enjoy a healthier, more confident grin knowing you’ve made affordable choices.
