DAVIS DENTAL

Ten Things To Consider Before Purchasing Dental Insurance

Are you looking into purchasing a dental benefits/insurance plan? Here is a list of things to consider before you do. 

1. Will you be able to continue seeing your current dentist? 

If you have a dentist that you really like, you may want to look into an insurance plan that he or she participates with. If your dentist is not on that list, don't be afraid to ask why your dentist has chosen not to participate. They may have a very good reason. Don't let insurance companies fool you into thinking you can only see a dentist that is on their list. Several companies will help pay even if it is not with a participating doctor. 

2. Know what is covered in the plan you are researching. 

Many insurance companies do not cover certain procedures, especially when it comes to preventive treatment. Dental sealants and fluoride are not always covered. Both of these procedures could prevent future decay and save you money in the long run. 

3. Is the treatment you need determined by you and your dentist?

If you are having to choose dental treatment based on what your insurance plan will cover, you may not be receiving the treatment that is best for you. You and your dentist should be making the decision together on what treatment is ideal for your overall health. 

4. What type of dental care is covered?

Does the plan you are researching cover braces, bridges, crowns, or periodontal disease? What about major treatment such as; dentures, implants, or TMJ disorder? 

5. What is your coverage maximum?

Most dental plans cover on average a $1,000-$2,000 maximum per year. This small amount can be greatly diminished after one or two procedures depending on what type of treatment is needed. If you know you need more work than this amount allows, it may not be worth the premiums and remaining out of pocket expense to purchase a dental plan.

6. What if you need to see a specialist?

Some plans do not cover specialist visits leaving you with the entire cost out of your own pocket. 

7. Does the plan cover out of area emergencies?

Nothing is worse than having a toothache while you are trying to enjoy yourself on vacation. Does your dental insurance take care of these types of visits?

8. Does the insurance have a waiting period? 

If you are needing treatment immediately, you are likely going to have to wait 3 months for minor work such as fillings, and one year for major work like bridges and crowns. 

9. Does the plan have a pre-existing condition clause?

Some companies will not cover pre-existing conditions such as missing teeth. If you have a missing tooth that needs to be replaced with a bridge or an implant, many times insurance plans will not cover this treatment. 

10. Do you have an existing crown or bridge that needs to be replaced?

The majority of insurance plans will not pay for a bridge or crown that needs to be replaced if it has been under 5 years. Some companies won't help pay if it has been less than 7 years. 

It is important for you as a patient to consider all of these options before opting to purchase a dental insurance plan. 

Information for this post came from www.investopia.com and www.ada.org