Blog

4 things you should understand about dental insurance

As with any insurance product, dental insurance can be difficult to understand.  We answer questions every day for patients who don’t know what to expect from their coverage.  Here are some of the most common questions we get.  If you have any specific questions, don’t hesitate to call our office at 620-663-9133.

1. You don’t have to have insurance to come to the dentist!

Dental insurance can cost as much as $400-500 a year. Many people are surprised to learn how affordable dental care can be. Preventive dental care- regular cleanings, checkups, and x-rays, can cost less than $300/yr. This also allows us to catch any potential problems when they are small, and can be fixed more easily and with less expense.

2. Even though your insurance says it covers a procedure at 100%, it may not pay all of the cost

Some insurance companies pay on something called a “fee schedule”, which sets the maximum fee they will pay. This maximum fee may be set at the at significantly less than the average fee for our area, and only pay up to that amount. There can also be exclusions like only paying for the cost of a metal filling when a white filling would be the better choice.

3. Your benefits may not cover all the work you need

Unlike medical plans, dental plans have a yearly maximum, often around $1,000-$1,500. If you have one or more teeth that need attention or it has been a little while since you have had dental care, it is unlikely that $1500 will cover all needed expenses. Your dental insurance is meant to help off-set some of the cost for your care but is not meant to cover all care. Consider today’s dental plans as a coupon for $1500 with and an expiration date.

4. It is to your advantage to use your benefits

Speaking of that expiration date, if you have insurance, you should take advantage of the benefits you have! Most insurance covers 100% of preventive care, and we know this is the best way to a healthy mouth! So if you have coverage and haven’t been keeping up with routine care, call us and make sure you are using your benefits!