How Does Dental Insurance Work? Let Us Explain!

It’s no secret that oral care in the US can be expensive. In fact, it’s often the main reason why a lot of patients don’t see a dentist to address even their most basic dental care needs.

Luckily, there are a lot of financing options out there that can help ease the financial burden of oral care. One of these options is dental insurance.

If you have insurance or are considering getting it, keep reading to find out exactly how dental insurance works.

What Does Dental Insurance Typically Cover?

Dental insurance involves paying a monthly premium (just like health insurance) which can help cover the full or partial costs of various types of dental treatments.

The types of treatment covered ultimately boil down to the policy you have. Sometimes, people’s health insurance can include some dental benefits, albeit with limited coverage, but there are also dental-specific policies available.

Some common procedures covered by dental insurance can include:

  • Routine exams
  • X-rays
  • Dental cleanings
  • Dental fillings
  • Extractions
  • Root canals
  • Dental crowns
  • Orthodontic treatments, etc.

What Does It Not Cover?

Dental insurance usually covers the cost of procedures done to prevent dental damage or restore oral health. Cosmetic treatments that have no oral care benefit are generally not covered by dental insurance.

Of course, cosmetic and restorative treatments often overlap, so it’s important to consider the context of a treatment. For example, dental crowns added solely for cosmetic purposes (meaning on a healthy tooth) will not be covered by insurance, but they may be covered if the dental crown is used to restore a badly cracked tooth.

However, to fully understand what is and isn’t covered, it’s very important to analyze the policy you have or are about to choose. They usually lay out all the benefits as well as limitations of your coverage, and even how much of the cost you will need to cover.

How Do I Find Out the Cost of My Procedure?

Oral care prices can vary tremendously from dentist to dentist. The best way to find out how much a dental procedure will cost is to simply ask them directly.

If you have insurance, you will need to see how much of the bill the policy covers for that specific type of treatment. For instance, a lot of policies may cover 100% of preventative care like cleanings, but only 50% of restorative care.

Learning everything about your policy is the best way to calculate your dental health costs.

Insurance at Carolina Pines Dentistry

Our practice works with most dental insurance providers to help our patients conveniently access quality oral health care. Moreover, we offer additional patient resources to help them cover the cost of their dental care. 

All your oral health needs are fully met thanks to Dr. Shane Wingler, Dr. Sarah Frye, and Dr. Kathryn Frye.

To get started, book a consultation today!

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