Most medical insurance plans typically cover some major oral surgery procedures. But does this also apply to Blue Cross Blue Shield? Well, that is a question you will get an answer to in this article.
does Blue Cross medical insurance cover oral surgery?
The short answer is yes. Blue Cross Blue Shield medical insurance provides coverage for oral surgery and other major dental procedures. However, only dental surgeries that are deemed medically necessary will be covered.
This may include oral surgeries related to trauma or accidents, or dental surgeries that are required as part of a broader medical treatment plan, such as surgeries needed before organ transplants.
The specific oral surgery procedures that are covered under a particular BCBS medical policy will vary depending on the plan that you choose. Regardless, most BCBS medical insurance will cover at least some basic oral surgery if not all types.
Oral surgery can include a wide range of procedures, such as:
- Wisdom teeth removal
- Dental implant placement
- Jaw surgery
- Root canal surgery
- Gum surgery
- Oral cancer surgery
Also read: The Standard Dental Insurance Plans Review
Cost of Blue Cross oral surgery?
The cost of Blue Cross oral surgery could vary based on several factors, including your specific BCBS plan, the type of oral surgery, the surgeon’s fees, and any applicable deductibles, and copayments.
For example, the cost of oral surgery for Blue Cross Blue Shield of California Dental Standard HMO plan is $40, while oral surgery costs $34 for its Dental HMO plan.
Also, out-of-pocket costs for oral surgery may be higher if the surgery is performed by an out-of-network dentist.
In addition, some Blue Cross dental plans may have annual deductibles that must be met before coverage begins.
The image below highlights Blue Cross Blue Shield of California dental plans coverage and their benefits.
Also read: AAA Dental Insurance For Massachusetts & Rhode Island
What does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover for dental
Blue Cross dental program covers many categories of dental services which include;
- Diagnostic & Preventive Services
- Miscellaneous Services
- Restorative Services
- General Services
- Endodontic Services
- Periodontic Services
- Oral Surgery Services
- Crowns, Inlays/Onlays Services
- Prosthodontic Services
Blue Cross Blue Shield Association that offer oral surgery policy
Here is a list of some of the Blue Cross Blue Shield companies in the BCBSA network that provide oral surgery coverage in the U.S.:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan: Serving residents of Michigan.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois: Serving residents of Illinois.
- Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield: Providing coverage in Pennsylvania.
- HealthNow New York Inc.: Providing coverage in New York.
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas: Serving residents of Texas.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida (Florida Blue): Providing coverage in Florida.
Tips for reducing the cost of oral surgery
- Choose an in-network dentist.
- Get a pre-determination of benefits from your insurance company.
- Consider financing options, such as dental credit cards or payment plans.
- Ask your dentist about discounts for paying cash or upfront.
Also read: Costco Dental Insurance Plans Review: Is It Worth It?
Wrapping up
Blue Cross Blue Shield does provide oral surgery surgery, you can do well to visit their website to find out more about their different dental plans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Is there a waiting period for oral surgery coverage under Blue Cross dental insurance?
Waiting periods for specific dental procedures, including oral surgery, may vary by insurance plan. Some plans have waiting periods before certain services are covered, while others may not. For that, it is important you check your plan’s terms for details.
What if I need oral surgery that is not covered by my BCBS dental policy?
If you need oral surgery that is not covered by your BCBS dental policy, you may have to pay for the procedure out of pocket.
Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover wisdom teeth extraction?
Yes, the Blue Cross Blue Shield oral surgery plan covers wisdom teeth extraction or removal.