Dental insurance allows many people to enjoy some well-deserved peace of mind when it comes to their oral health care, but insurance policies cover different procedures at different rates. Since each plan is unique, it’s important to understand what your policy covers before committing to dental treatment. Here’s a quick guide to the coverage dental insurance typically provides as well as a few tips for getting the most out of your plan.
Preventative Care Is Almost Always Completely Covered
If there’s anything insurance companies love to do, it’s encouraging their policyholders to avoid the need for expensive medical or dental procedures down the road. In keeping with this trend, dental insurance policies typically cover preventative care such as biannual routine exams and cleanings at 100%. This incentivizes people to get the care they need to prevent oral health issues that are much more expensive to treat.
Insurance Usually Offers Partial Coverage for Restorative Procedures
Many patients see their dentists for minor repairs such as fillings and tooth extractions every year, and dental insurance companies typically cover these procedures by about 80%. On the other hand, major procedures such as crowns, bridges, and dentures are usually covered by about 50%. In either case, dental insurance can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Insurance Rarely Covers Elective Procedures
While cosmetic dentistry has allowed millions of people to enjoy the benefits of having a beautiful smile, it is quite rare for dental insurance to cover procedures like veneers and teeth whitening. While insurance plans typically cover treatments that are considered medically necessary, cosmetic dental work is regarded as an elective procedure. However, your insurance may offer partial coverage for a veneer or a metal-free restoration if it is used to restore a damaged tooth.
How Can I Get the Most from My Insurance Plan?
Insurance policies generally involve a yearly maximum, meaning that they will pay out as much as a certain amount of money annually, and unused funds do not roll over to the next year. However, Americans leave vast sums of money on the table by not taking advantage of these benefits before the year’s end. Understanding what your plan will pay for can help you affordably receive the care you need and receive all the benefits that you pay for.
Oral health is a crucial part of your overall well-being. Knowing the details of your insurance plan can help you keep your mouth in great shape while saving you money.
About the Author
Dr. Erin M. Prach earned her dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and is set to achieve Diplomate Status with the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. She is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association and the Wyoming Dental Association. Her office offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as sleep apnea treatments. To schedule your next exam and cleaning, contact her office online or dial (307) 337-4770.