DENTAL INSURANCE

Visiting a dentist without dental insurance can be costly. As the price of cleanings and x-rays continue to rise, many people are beginning to purchase complex dental insurance plans. Many dental insurance plans provide complete coverage, though the majority of these plans only provide limited coverage.

Most detail insurance plans are “in-network” plans. This type of insurance is limiting, since in-network policy holders can only visit dentists who are part of a certain network. In the eventuality that you stumble across an in-network plan that’s irresistible, ask an insurer for a list of dentists who are included in a network plan.

You may find that many dentists who are part of a network plan are not located near your current place of residence. Traveling a long distance to visit with a dentist can be a nuisance (especially if you have a dental emergency). If a list of network dentists includes dentists who are near your home, a network plan may be the most affordable option. You may also find that some network plans provide you with the freedom to choose an “out of network” dentist, though these plans are often limited coverage-wise.

Pay attention to the amount of yearly coverage that any plan includes. For example, a plan may allow up to $1,000 worth of yearly coverage, but once this amount is used up you will have to pay out-of-pocket. It’s tough to anticipate dental emergencies, but it’s best to go with a plan that includes a high yearly coverage amount. Typically, insurance companies that provide dental insurance do not allow more than $1,000 worth of yearly coverage.

Likewise, dental insurance companies set limits for each dental procedure. These limits (called “usual customary and reasonable” limits) may require you to pay for part of a procedure. For instance, a company may allot $60 for a dental cleaning that costs $80. If this is the case, you will wind up paying $20 from your own wallet. Take a good look at these limits prior to purchasing a dental plan of any kind.

Dental insurance companies tend to break down various procedures according to type. The three main categories are basic, restorative, and major. Since all dental plans are different, it’s wise to ask any potential insurer for a list of procedures that are covered under each category type. While some insurers may consider root canals “restorative,” others may not cover this type of procedure. Shopping around for the best dental insurance coverage is the only way to find a plan that will allow you the freedom to choose a dentist, go through the right procedure, and gain the coverage that you need.

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