Having dental insurance will help save you money when you have a cavity or other dental problems. Dental insurance can cost a lot and may not cover certain procedures, so it is best to do your research about what your dental insurance plan covers. Here are some aspects you may not know about dental insurance that can help you make a better decision about what dental plan is best for you.
1- Dental Coverage Pays More For Vital Procedures
Common dental procedures like cleanings, fillings, or checkups will be covered by the most basic dental insurance. Your dental insurance is more willing to pay for these procedures because they are essential for your health rather than just cosmetic.
Some dental insurance will cover more complex dental procedures as well, but you may pay more of your own money for these procedures. For facial reconstruction or other cosmetic dentistry, you will need to pay out of pocket.
2- Dental Policies Can Cover Braces
If you have workplace dental insurance it may actually provide coverage for braces. Some plans have an allowance, which provides a set amount towards the total cost of the braces. Some of these allowances won’t regenerate and will only pay out one time.
3- HMOs Compared To PPOs
Health Maintenance Organizations or Preferred Provider Organization plans are just two of the common plans offered by an insurance brand. HMOs deliver services in a network or providers and have less paperwork. PPOs have higher out-of-pocket costs, but you have more freedom in providers and don’t require referrals.
PPOs often provide more flexibility for patients in their choice of dentist and uses. When your budget is tight, HMOs are better for your needs. HMO plans do restrict your options when choosing a dental professional, but you may be able to receive a better price or lower co-pays when visiting the dentist. Before you choose a dental plan, make sure to do some research about how much you will pay and ask around about what option will be best for you.
4- You Need Basic Restorative Care Coverage
Having coverage for fillings, extractions, and repair of crowns is critical. Dental insurance will often cover 80% of the cost which only requires you to pay 20%. This will save you some major money and can help keep your oral health in check without breaking the bank.
5- Waiting Periods For Dental Work
Saving all your dental work to the end of the month or the first of the month can cause problems when it comes to paying for procedures. Some services will be covered immediately or within the first 30 days, while others may only be covered after you have had dental insurance for 6 months. Your dental plan will also be good for a whole year, so at the end of this period, you will need to replenish the policy and learn about how the policy may change.
6- Out Of Pocket Prices
Some patients opt to pay for dental work out of pocket, but even the most basic procedures can have steep prices. Even a single filling for a cavity can cost $300 dollars and cleanings can cost $200.
Dental insurance will cover some of the cost, which is better than paying the full price yourself. Even the most affordable dental plans will help you be able to pay to take care of your oral health.
7- Purchasing Dental Insurance
Working to purchase dental insurance should start with you choosing a company you enjoy working with. Dental insurance can be purchased year-round and does not require you to purchase it at the beginning of the year. Coverage starts either the day after or days after you submit an application. If you are gaining dental insurance from your workplace, there may be a longer waiting period before you can seek dental appointments.
Sunset Dental
The team at Sunset Dental can help you with insurance forms and all your dental questions. We take the majority of dental insurance and also offer payment plans so that you can take care of your teeth in smaller investment amounts.
At our dental office in Sunset, UT, you can have a brighter and healthier smile with our detailed procedures. We offer family dentistry, cleanings, veneers, implants, root canals, extractions, and more. Contact us to schedule your appointment today!