If you’re hunting for Cigna covered implant retained dentures to fill gaps in your smile, you’re in the right place. Implant-supported dentures combine the stability of dental implants with the affordability of removable prosthetics, and Cigna’s dental plans can help you cover part of the cost. You’ll learn how coverage works, what steps to take, and how to maximize your benefits so that swapping gaps for confidence is easier than you think.
Here’s the one-sentence promise: by the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to navigate Cigna’s implant denture benefits, from choosing the right plan to finding an in-network provider and securing precertification.
Understanding implant dentures
What exactly are implant retained dentures? Think of implants as sturdy anchors (titanium posts inserted into your jawbone) that hold a removable denture in place. They act like roots, so your denture won’t slip or click when you eat or speak.
Why they appeal to seniors
- Exceptional stability, so you can enjoy harder foods without worrying
- Bone preservation benefits (the implants stimulate jawbone health)
- Durability that often exceeds 20 years with proper care¹
Let’s be honest, slipping dentures can be embarrassing. Implant supported options restore confidence and chewing power in a way that traditional dentures simply can’t match.
¹Source: Research shows dental implants last 20+ years when maintained properly.
Exploring Cigna coverage
Cigna’s dental insurance offerings vary by plan type, and not all include implant benefits. Here’s a quick rundown of plans that may help cover implant retained dentures:
- Cigna PPO plans
- Typically cover implants at 50 percent after deductible
- Subject to an annual maximum and waiting period
- Cigna DHMO plans
- Usually exclude implant surgeries but offer discounted fees through in-network providers
Coverage details to watch for
- Annual maximum limits (for many PPO plans, implant services count toward a $1,000–$2,000 yearly cap)
- Waiting periods (most policies require 6–12 months before major restorative services kick in)
- Lifetime implant maximums (some plans include a separate lifetime cap for implants)
Here’s the thing, reading the fine print can be a headache. That’s why it pays to call Cigna’s customer service or ask your dentist to request a benefit summary.
Comparing PPO and DHMO
Choosing between a PPO and a DHMO plan can feel like splitting hairs, but implant coverage is often the deciding factor. Let’s break it down:
| Feature | Cigna PPO plan | Cigna DHMO plan |
|---|---|---|
| Implant coverage percentage | 50% of allowed amount | Generally excluded |
| Annual maximum | $1,000–$2,000 | No maximum for covered services |
| Waiting period | 6–12 months | Typically none for basic care |
| In-network flexibility | You choose any licensed dentist | Must see DHMO provider |
| Out-of-pocket cost | Higher premiums, partial cost sharing | Lower premiums, set co-pays |
Key cost-sharing details
- With PPO you pay 50 percent of the implant procedure cost after deductible
- DHMO members may get deep discounts on related services but no implant coverage
- Annual maximums often mean you’ll hit the cap if you need two or more implants in one year
Need a deeper comparison on bridge coverage? Check out how Cigna handles dental bridge replacement coverage.
Getting precertification approval
Most implant procedures require precertification (prior authorization) to ensure Cigna will contribute to the bill. Following these steps can reduce surprises:
- Gather documentation
- X-rays, treatment plans, and clinical notes from your dentist
- A written estimate for surgery and prosthetic phases
- Submit a request
- Through Cigna’s portal or via fax/phone (see Master Precertification List for Providers)
- Use the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) 278 transaction set for digital requests
- Wait for decision
- Cigna typically responds within 10–14 business days
- Emergency services leading to inpatient stays are exempt but must be reported within one business day
Let’s walk through this step by step: your dentist prepares an estimate, you or the office submits an ePA request via portals like EviCore or CoverMyMeds, then Cigna’s Coverage Review Department signs off. Having in-network providers handle the paperwork can speed things up.
Finding in-network providers
Why go in-network? Your out-of-pocket costs drop, reimbursement is smoother, and your dentist is already set up with Cigna’s billing processes. Here’s how to locate someone near you:
- Use Cigna’s online provider directory
- Call customer service to confirm your dentist’s status
- Ask your local restorative practice if they participate in Cigna networks
Pro tip: search under in-network restorative dental care with Cigna to see providers specializing in implant services.
Benefits of in-network care
- Pre-negotiated fees for implant surgeries and attachments
- Direct billing to Cigna, reducing upfront costs for you
- Faster precertification and claims processing
Working with certified implant dentists
- Look for credentials like “Diplomate, American Board of Oral Implantology”
- Check patient reviews for successful implant-retained denture cases
- Ensure your dentist’s lab partners have experience crafting denture prosthetics
Maximizing your coverage
Even with 50 percent coverage on a PPO, implants can be pricey. Here are ways to stretch your benefits:
- Pre-treatment estimates
- Request a full benefits breakdown before you commit
- Schedule treatments strategically
- If you’re close to a new benefits year, plan implant placements early to use a full year’s maximum
- Coordinate medical and dental plans
- Some medical plans cover bone grafts or oral surgery when medically necessary
Year-end planning tip: if your remaining dental maximum is low, consider scheduling related procedures like bone grafts or even a routine cleaning before December 31.
Exploring replacement solutions
Not ready for implant retained dentures? Cigna covers traditional options too. Let’s compare cost and coverage:
| Solution | Longevity | Cigna coverage | Out-of-pocket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Implant-supported dentures | 20+ years¹ | 50% on PPO plans | Moderate-high |
| Removable dentures | 5–7 years | 50–80% on PPO, DHMO co-pays | Low-moderate |
| Fixed bridges | 10–15 years | 50% on PPO, not on DHMO | Moderate |
¹With proper maintenance
Traditional dentures and bridges often come with shorter waiting periods. If you need a quick turnaround, ask about cigna denture stabilization coverage or check bridge details via cigna dental bridge replacement coverage.
Planning your implant journey
Ready to take the plunge? Here’s a rough timeline:
- Consultation and exam
- Impressions, scans, and jawbone assessment
- Surgical phase
- Placement of titanium posts under local anesthesia
- Healing period of 3–6 months for osseointegration
- Restorative phase
- Abutment placement and final denture fabrication
- Try-ins and adjustments for fit and comfort
- Aftercare and maintenance
- Daily cleaning around implants
- Regular checkups every 6 months
For the final crown-like attachment, ask about cigna covered permanent crown placement if you need custom abutments that look like natural teeth.
Keeping your investment healthy
- Brush twice daily with a soft brush
- Use implant-safe floss or interdental picks
- Schedule professional cleanings and exams regularly
Key takeaways and next steps
- Implant retained dentures offer stability, bone health benefits, and longevity of 20+ years.
- Cigna PPO plans usually cover implants at 50 percent, subject to annual maximums and waiting periods. DHMO options exclude implants but offer discounted fees.
- Precertification is essential: gather documentation, submit an ePA or EDI 278 request, and wait 10–14 business days for approval.
- Choose in-network providers to reduce out-of-pocket costs and speed up claims. Try searching via in-network restorative dental care with Cigna or finding a cigna in-network dental implant provider.
- Maximize benefits by timing treatments, coordinating medical coverage for grafts, and using pre-treatment estimates.
- If implants aren’t right for you, explore traditional dentures or bridges, with options like cigna denture stabilization coverage to increase comfort.
Next action: request a benefits summary from Cigna, book a consultation with an in-network implant dentist, and start closing those smile gaps today. Have questions about your plan? Drop them in the comments so we can help you feel confident every step of the way.
