Do you know how your dental insurance works? Unpacking the details of your insurance plan may not sound exciting, but knowing the basics can save you money and help you maintain a healthy smile! From key terms to what types of procedures are covered, here are 4 handy tips to get the most out of your dental insurance.
#1: Know the Key Terms
First, let’s review three key terms that everyone should know related to their dental insurance:
- Deductible – This is the minimum amount you must pay for your dental care before your insurance kicks in.
- Co-Pay – Once the deductible is met, you still must make co-payments. A co-pay is a fixed amount paid before receiving a specific dental service. For example, a routine dental checkup may require a $15 co-pay, with your dental insurance covering the rest of the costs.
- Yearly Maximum – Most dental insurance policies set a maximum coverage amount per year. Once you reach this yearly limit, you will pay 100% of your dental care costs out of pocket.
#2: What Does Dental Insurance Cover?
Understanding what types of procedures your dental insurance covers can help you maximize your benefits. Although every plan is different, most dental insurance plans follow the 100-80-50 structure:
- Preventive Services – Routine checkups and dental X-rays are typically covered at 100%.
- Basic Services – Simple extractions, dental fillings and other basic services are typically covered at around 80%.
- Extensive Restorative Services – Crowns, bridges, dentures, and root canals are typically covered at 50%.
#3: Don’t Let Your Benefits Expire!
Many people do not realize this, but most dental insurance deductibles reset at the beginning of each year. If you have already paid your deductible but have not reached your yearly maximum, you could essentially be leaving money on the table when the calendar turns over. Whether you have $50 or $500 left on your yearly maximum, it is better to not let your benefits expire. If you wait until next year for dental treatment, you will likely have to pay your deductible again for a procedure that would probably cost you less money now.
#4: Dental Insurance Plans Change Often
If you like your current dental insurance plan, do not wait until after the coming holiday season to take advantage of your benefits! Dental insurance plans change much more frequently compared to medical insurance. New premiums, deductibles and benefits may be applied at the beginning of the year. Waiting until 2021 to start the dental treatment you have been considering could end up costing you more if your insurance plan changes significantly. All the more reason to get in touch with your dentist sooner rather than later!
If you have additional questions about your dental insurance or want to know the most effective way to use your remaining benefits, talk to your dentist today.
About the Practice
The experienced team at Capron Park Dental is dedicated to providing quality, affordable dental care to the residents of Attleboro, MA and surrounding communities. Capron Park Dental accepts most major dental insurance plans and even has a dedicated staff member – shout out to Dacia! – who works directly with insurance providers to secure the full benefits patients deserve. To learn more, visit the Capron Park Dental website or call 508-222-5950.