Knowing you have dental insurance can go a long way towards providing peace of mind, but it can often be overwhelming when you try to understand exactly what your plan covers. Between the confusing jargon and complicated numbers, it’s easy to get frustrated when trying to figure out your policy, but don’t despair. Here’s a breakdown of some common dental insurance questions you might have.
Dental Insurance vs. Health Insurance: What’s The Difference?
If you’re like many people, you’ve probably wondered why your dental insurance is separate from your health insurance. After all, your mouth is part of your body, and your oral health affects your overall health, too. The reason for this is because long ago, the medical field did not acknowledge the dental field as being a part of their practice, and thus the dental community had to forge their own path with everything from dental schools to dental insurance.
Today, despite more experts acknowledging a connection between the two healthcare branches, these insurance plans are still separate. They not only differ in coverage, but they also differ in how they approach insurance. With medical insurance, the emphasis is on covering illnesses, while with dental plans the focus is more on preventive care.
What Does My Dental Insurance Plan Cover?
If you have dental insurance, what exactly your plan covers depends on your individual policy. As a rule of thumb, most plans follow this format:
- Up to 100% coverage for preventive care such as routine exams and X-rays.
- Approximately 80% coverage for basic restorative care such as fillings.
- Approximately 50% coverage for major procedures such as crowns, root canals, and dentures.
How Do I Make the Most of My Dental Insurance?
Though most plans will not pay the full cost of restorations, they do encourage you to reduce your risk of needing them by maintaining your oral health with preventive care. Thus, to make the most of your money, you should always attend your semi-annual dental exams and practice excellent oral hygiene on your own. This includes brushing at least twice a day, flossing at least once a day, eating a healthy diet, and using your teeth only for chewing food.
What if I Can’t Afford the Difference?
Unfortunately, sometimes dental emergencies or repairs can be costly, even with insurance. In these cases, your dentist may offer financing plans to help you break up the cost, so it better fits your budget.
Remember, dental insurance is meant to help protect your mouth through regular preventive care. To safeguard your oral health and make the most of your money, be sure to keep up with your oral hygiene and don’t skip your regular dental appointments.
About Our Practice
At Triosi Dentistry, we take a different approach to patient care. Here, you’re not just a number, but a real person with your own individual needs and oral health goals. Whether you’re one or 101 (or any age in between) we’re here to help you protect your smile and improve your quality of life.
If you’re not sure what your dental insurance plan covers, or if you need financing for any procedure, please speak to our team for more information. To schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call us at 757-300-5799.