All-on-4, full-arch, and full-mouth implant cases are some of the most transformative treatments in dentistry—but they’re also some of the most financially intimidating for patients.
While these procedures are often seen as “cash-only,” there are real opportunities for partial insurance reimbursement. The key is knowing when—and how—to use medical billing correctly.
Let’s Start with the Truth: Most dental insurance plans don’t cover full-arch implants outright. Even if there’s some coverage, annual maximums are usually too low to make a real dent.
But here’s what many practices don’t realize: medical insurance may offer partial reimbursement for certain parts of the treatment—if you know how to submit it.
When Medical Billing Might Apply Here are some common situations where medical billing could be considered:
- Trauma-related tooth loss
- Medical conditions that impact oral function (e.g., bone loss due to cancer treatment or autoimmune disease)
- Severe functional impairment (like inability to chew or speak properly)
- Congenital defects like Anodontia
In these cases, the procedure must be considered medically necessary. That means documentation is everything.
What You Need to Bill Medical for Implants. If your team wants to attempt medical crossover, you’ll need:
- A clear narrative of medical necessity
- Diagnosis codes (ICD-10-CM)
- CPT® codes, not just CDT
- Referrals or supporting documentation from physicians, if applicable
- Imaging and clinical notes
Most in-house dental teams don’t have time to learn this process—let alone stay updated as requirements change.
How a Billing Partner Can Help. At Insurance Billing Experts, we’ve seen firsthand how a well-documented, correctly submitted claim can give patients access to support they didn’t know they had. Our team:
- Identifies which cases qualify for medical review
- Handles coding and documentation from start to finish
- Submits and follows up on both dental and medical claims
- Provides clear guidance so your treatment coordinators can focus on the patient—not the paperwork
It’s Not About Promising Magic. It’s About Knowing What’s Possible. Not every case will qualify. But when they do, the impact is huge. Even a few thousand dollars of coverage can be the difference between “I want this” and “I can’t afford this.”
Let us help you give your patients the clarity—and support—they deserve.