Dental Insurance FAQ: The Basics
We at Spring Creek Dentistry understand that dental insurance can be a tricky thing to navigate. Evaluating dental plans and considering deductibles, benefits, which treatments are covered, and the mountain of other information insurance companies provide can be a headache in and of itself. Dr. Oakley wants every Spring resident to have the power to control their own health, so here’s a simplified guide to the basics of dental health insurance. As always, if you have a question, don’t be afraid to give us a call!
Dental Insurance
Dental insurance is an excellent investment that helps Spring residents ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles. However, in order to get the best value from your dental insurance, there are a few things you need to know. Here are the answers to the most common questions we hear at Spring Creek Dentistry:
What is dental insurance?
Having dental insurance means that an insurance provider will pay for a percentage of the dental care that you need every year. Plans vary in terms of how much they cost, how much they cover, and which dentists are included. If you would like to know if Dr. Oakley is included in your provider network, please call Spring Creek Dentistry today.
What do dental insurance plans cover?
Insurance carriers cover dental procedures in three fundamental categories: preventative (examinations, routine cleanings, x-rays etc.) basic/restorative (cavity fillings, tooth extractions, etc.), and major (crowns, bridges, surgical extractions, dental implants, etc.). The classification of procedures varies according to each insurance company, but the majority of dental insurance plans have “100-80-50” coverage, which means routine cleanings, checkups and diagnostic care are paid for in full, 80 percent of the cost of fillings, root canals, and other basic procedures are covered, and 50 percent of the cost of dental implants and other major procedures are covered. Cosmetic dental procedures, such as whitening treatments are not usually covered.
What are premiums, copayments, deductibles, and maximums?
- Premiums – These are the basic yearly or monthly cost of your dental insurance. Premiums do not include copayments or deductibles.
- Copayments- Some plans require you to pay a flat rate per visit or a percentage of the cost of each visit.
- Deductibles- For each plan, there is an annual amount that you must pay before the insurance will cover expenses. After your deductible is met, your insurance plan will cover a percentage of the cost of your dental care.
- Maximums- Most plans include a maximum dollar amount that will be paid for your dental expenses. You are responsible for any amount exceeding your maximum.
When do benefits renew?
Benefits are usually calculated yearly and renew on the 1st of January. It is important to know that unused coverage does not carry over to the next year.
If you have specific questions about your dental insurance, you can contact your insurance provider or give Spring Creek Dentistry a call. We are always happy to answer any questions that help keep Spring smiles beautiful and healthy!
Sources
http://www.humanadental.com/tools/faqs.asp
http://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/dental-insurance-1.aspx
http://www.ehealthinsurance.com/content/health/Dental-Insurance-FAQ.shtml