After weeks of ignoring your toothache, it is time to face the music and schedule a dental appointment. As you reach for your phone, a few questions immediately come to mind. How much is this going to cost? What exactly does my insurance cover? Which practice should I visit? If this sounds all too familiar, then you are not alone. Fortunately, a dentist in Mount Vernon is sharing four tips to help you understand your dental insurance.
#1. Look for “100-80-50”
This sequence of numbers is often found on dental insurance paperwork and refers to the type of coverage you have with different treatments. The “100” indicates that 100% of the cost of preventive care, like a dental checkup and professional cleaning, is covered on your policy. Next, 80% of the cost of basic procedures, like fillings, are included. Lastly, 50% of major treatments, like crowns and bridges, are included.
#2. “Out of Network” Does Not Mean “Out of Coverage”
When it comes to selecting a primary care provider in the medical world, “out of network” does often translate to “out of coverage.” However, the same does not apply to dental insurance. In fact, “out of network” may mean that coverage is still available, but the percentage from the insurance company is reduced.
#3. Pick Your Provider
Did you know that roughly 50% of Americans experience anxiety around going to the dentist? For patients who fall into this statistic or have a hectic schedule that prevents them from attending their routine visits, finding the right provider is crucial. However, that can be difficult if your insurance company dictates that for you. Even if you have to pay a bit more, the best provider is the one who genuinely improves your oral health.
#4. Get Familiar with Your Plan
Routine appointments are conducted bi-annually, but what happens if you need a root canal? Or if you want to fix a chip that happened during a sports-related activity? Being familiar with your plan can be incredibly helpful so there are no surprises along the way. While you can always talk directly with the insurance company, speaking to your dental team can be equally as beneficial!
If pouring over page after page of unfamiliar jargon is getting you nowhere, then you are not alone. Fortunately, you can use the above tips to help you better understand your dental insurance. That way, you can get the dental care you need without the stress!
About the Author
In addition to an undergraduate degree from Miami University, Dr. Eric Buck has a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from The Ohio State University. Today, he stays up to date on the latest that technology and dentistry have to offer by being an active member of numerous reputable organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Ohio Dental Association. If you would like to speak with his team at Cross Creek Dental about your benefits, visit their website or give them a call at 740-392-6156.