
Delta Dental insurance may cover some TMJ treatment and surgery, but the extent of coverage varies depending on the plan. Some Delta Dental plans cover TMJ treatment and surgery as part of their comprehensive dental coverage.
Delta Dental's standard coverage typically includes treatments for TMJ disorders, such as occlusal adjustments, bite therapy, and splint therapy. However, more invasive procedures like surgery may require a separate rider or additional coverage.
According to Delta Dental's policy, TMJ treatment and surgery may be considered medically necessary if it's related to a dental condition, but it's ultimately up to the insurance company's discretion.
Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage for TMJ treatment can be a bit tricky, but it's essential to understand what's covered and what's not. Medical insurance policies may cover physical therapy or medications, while dental insurance policies may cover splints or mouth guards.
It's crucial to contact your insurance provider before beginning treatment to determine what treatments may be covered and if you'll owe any out-of-pocket costs. This will help you avoid any surprise medical bills.
Factors affecting coverage can include medical necessity, policy limitations, pre-authorization and documentation, and in-network providers. These factors can impact the coverage provided by Delta Dental for jaw surgery.
Delta Dental typically covers procedures that are deemed medically necessary. If your jaw surgery is considered medically necessary to correct a functional issue or alleviate pain, it is more likely to be covered.
If you choose to receive jaw surgery from an out-of-network provider, your coverage may be reduced, or you may be responsible for a higher percentage of the costs. It's advisable to consult with your insurance provider to determine if your surgeon is in-network.
To navigate the coverage for jaw surgery under Delta Dental policies, be sure to:
- Ensure you obtain any necessary pre-authorization for jaw surgery.
- Pre-authorization helps you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.
By understanding these factors and following the necessary steps, you can ensure that you receive the coverage you need for your TMJ treatment.
Treatment and Surgery
Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, can correct issues like misalignment, malocclusion, and skeletal discrepancies, offering functional improvement, pain relief, and enhanced aesthetics.
Delta Dental's coverage for jaw surgery varies based on your policy and condition, and it's crucial to review your dental insurance policy thoroughly if considering jaw surgery.
Jaw surgery is considered medically necessary for functional issues, like bite problems, which may receive partial coverage under Delta Dental.
Medical necessity is crucial for coverage, so if the surgery corrects functional issues, it's more likely to be covered by Delta Dental.
Cosmetic procedures may not be covered by dental insurance, and you should review your plan documents or contact Delta Dental to grasp your specific coverage details and any potential exclusions.
Delta Dental's coverage for jaw surgery may have limitations such as waiting periods, pre-authorization requirements, and criteria for medical necessity.
It's essential to contact Delta Dental or your insurer for specifics on covered procedures, pre-authorization requirements, and potential out-of-pocket expenses, ensuring a clear understanding of your coverage.
Financial Options
If you're concerned about the cost of TMD treatment, there are financial options available to help. Third-party financing can be a viable option for those seeking TMD treatment but worried about the cost.
You can take out a loan from a healthcare financing provider specifically for covering TMD treatment expenses, which can be spread over time to avoid upfront payment. Some providers offer flexible repayment terms and competitive interest rates.
CareCredit and Delta Dental are third-party providers that offer interest-free financing for a specific period, making it an attractive option for those looking to keep their costs low. Research different financing providers and compare the loan terms to determine the best third-party provider for your financial needs.
No Dental Coverage
Delta Dental's coverage for jaw surgery is generally provided when it's medically necessary, but not for purely cosmetic or elective surgeries.
Coverage for TMJ procedures is available, but botox injections to treat temporomandibular joint disorders are not covered by Delta Dental.
There is no dental billing code for TMJ botox injections, which is why no dental insurance, including Delta Dental, covers this procedure.
If you're planning to get TMJ botox treatment, you'll have to pay out of pocket for it, as it's not a recognized insurance billing procedure.
The cost of TMJ botox treatment will depend on the number of units needed to treat your condition.
Delta Dental's policy on TMJ botox coverage is not unique to their insurance, as no dental insurance covers this procedure.
Typically Covered Expenses

Surgical fees for jaw surgery may be covered by Delta Dental, depending on your plan and the surgery's reason.
Delta Dental may cover anesthesia and facility charges for jaw surgery, but this depends on your specific plan and policy details.
Some expenses, like consultations and tests, may also be covered, but it's essential to review your plan documents or contact Delta Dental for precise coverage details.
Additional costs, such as follow-up visits and orthodontic treatment, may be covered under certain plans, but this varies depending on your policy and treatment plan.
Here's a breakdown of what's typically covered for jaw surgery:
Third-Party Financing for Medical Expenses
If you're concerned about the cost of medical expenses, you have options. Third-party financing can be a viable solution for covering treatment costs. This involves taking out a loan from a healthcare financing provider specifically for medical expenses.
CareCredit and Delta Dental are two examples of third-party providers that offer flexible repayment terms. They also offer competitive interest rates to help spread the cost of treatment over time. Some providers offer interest-free financing for a specific period.
Researching different financing providers is crucial to determine the best option for your financial needs. Comparing loan terms will help you make an informed decision.
Why Invest in Treatment?

Investing in treatment is a crucial step towards alleviating TMD symptoms and improving your quality of life. Depending on the severity of your condition, treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medications, dental devices, or even surgery.
The cost of treatment can vary depending on the type of treatment required, but it's essential to consider the potential benefits when weighing the costs. By investing in TMD treatment, patients can experience significant improvements in their overall well-being.
TMJ Treatment and Botox
Botox injections for TMJ treatment don't have a dental billing code, which is why it's not covered by dental insurance. This is a common issue with TMJ botox treatment, as no dental insurance has coverage for it.
The lack of a billing code is the main reason why TMJ botox treatment is not covered by dental insurance, including Delta Dental. Unfortunately, this means that if you elect to have this procedure done, you'll have to pay out of pocket for it.
Some insurance providers may consider Botox for TMD a cosmetic treatment and may not cover it, while others may cover it as a medically necessary treatment.
Key Takeaways:
Delta Dental insurance coverage varies depending on your specific plan.
Some Delta Dental plans may cover jaw surgery if it is deemed medically necessary.
It is essential to check with Delta Dental to understand your plan's coverage for jaw surgery.
Delta Dental may require pre-authorization for jaw surgery to be covered.
Here's a quick rundown of what to consider when it comes to insurance coverage for jaw surgery:
- Check your Delta Dental plan to see if it covers jaw surgery
- Consult with your dentist or oral surgeon to determine if jaw surgery is necessary
- Review your specific Delta Dental policy to understand your coverage
- Pre-authorization may be required for jaw surgery to be covered
Is Botox Covered?
Botox for TMJ is not covered by dental insurance, including Delta Dental, because there is no dental billing code for it.
Every dental treatment has a unique billing code, but Botox injections for TMJ treatment does not have one. This is why no dental insurance, including Delta Dental, covers it.
You'll have to pay out of pocket for TMJ Botox treatment, and the cost will depend on how many units you need to treat your condition.
Some insurance providers may consider Botox for TMD a cosmetic treatment and may not cover it, while others may cover it as a medically necessary treatment.
You should check with your insurance provider to determine what treatments may be covered and what your out-of-pocket costs may be.
Even if your insurance covers TMJ procedures, Botox is not included, so you'll still be paying out of pocket for every subsequent visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TMJ considered a medical or dental condition?
TMJ disorders can be caused by either medical or dental issues, making it a condition that requires a joint assessment by both medical and dental professionals. To determine the cause, patients should consult their dentist for a full evaluation.
Sources
- https://www1.deltadentalins.com/wellness/conditions-and-treatments/articles/tmj.html
- https://www.jacksonavedental.com/post/does-delta-dental-cover-botox-for-tmj
- https://www.nassoolsennapolitano.com/cost-of-tmj-disorder-treatment/
- https://www.acefamilydental.com/does-delta-dental-cover-jaw-surgery/
- https://benefits.usg.edu/health-and-well-being/dental
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