1. Health

What is a Missing Tooth Clause?

From , former About.com Guide

Updated: March 22, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Question: What is a Missing Tooth Clause?

Answer: More than 90 percent of dental insurance policies carry a missing tooth clause. A missing tooth clause protects the insurance company from paying for the replacement of a tooth that was missing before the policy was in effect.

For example, if you lost a tooth before your coverage started and later decided that you would like to have a partial, bridge or dental implant to replace the missing tooth, the insurance company would not have to pay for that service if they have a missing tooth clause in their dental plan.

Should You Buy Dental Insurance?

More Dental Care Q&A

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.