How to Pay for Dental Implants
Dental implants are a way to enjoy life without worrying about chewing, pain, loose dentures, and the health-related consequences caused by plates, removable bridges, and false teeth. Few — if any — dental insurance plans cover implants. Despite that, prices for these surgical procedures are coming down as a result of competition.
If the installation of your implant won’t wait for prices to fall, consider the following payment options.
Line of Credit
Apply to your bank, credit union, or another lender for a line of credit tied to your home or other tangible assets to underwrite your dental implant procedure. Use this method to finance the work.
If your line of credit is secured by real estate, you could get a tax write-off on the interest you paid. If you file an itemized tax return, ask your accountant about writing off all or a portion of your dental implant surgery.
No- or Low-Interest Payment Plan
Ask your dentist about whether their practice offers a no- or low-interest payment plan. Dental practitioners sometimes work with banks to offer credit to patients in return for business volume. These are rarely interest-free.
Request paperwork from your dentist to apply for their financing program, but don’t sign anything until you check other options to make certain you’re getting the best deal.
Borrow Money
Borrow cash from a relative with the understanding that you’ll pay them back with interest. Draw up a promissory note if you choose this option. Bring your checkbook with you when you’re ready to make payment and ask your dentist if he or she is willing to give you a discount on a cash payment.
Zero-Interest Credit Card
Apply for a zero-interest credit card that’s to be used only to pay off the cost of your dental implant. Study offers that come in the mail to see which one has the longest period before interest begins to accrue. Divide the cost by the number of months for which the card accrues no interest and pay that amount each month.
By the end of the year, the implants will be paid off and your credit score will be enhanced as a result of your timely payments.
Medical Credit Card
Get a credit card issued exclusively for medical and dental emergencies. These cards offer credit limits commensurate with credit scores, so even a large bill — $25,000 for example — can be put on this type of card and financed over three, six, 12, 24, 36, or 48 months. Some plans are interest-free.
The longest ones are interest-bearing. This type of credit is particularly useful if you’re having your entire mouth done. CareCredit is a popular provider of medical credit cards.
