According to the American Dental Association, 61.4% of Americans have private dental coverage. Although millions of Americans have dental insurance, less than 3% of people meet or exceed their annual limits. This accounts for billions of dollars lost in dental benefits every year. Despite paying premiums, many people don’t understand how their dental insurance works. Deductibles and annual limits can be confusing. Here’s what you need to know to maximize your coverage.
Understanding Dental Insurance
Your premiums give you access to a nationwide network of professionals who work with your dental insurance to keep oral health costs to a minimum. You’ll benefit from reduced rates for the services you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
You can visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup because 100% of the expenses for preventive dentistry are covered after a copayment. If you require any dental work, your insurance can pay 50% to 80% of the expenses for medically necessary treatments after meeting your yearly deductible.
Annual Deductibles
A deductible is the dollar amount you are required to pay before your insurance will start paying for any restorative services. Depending on your policy, you may have an individual annual deductible or a family annual deductible.
Once your deductible has been met, your insurance will pay a set amount for any dental work during the year, called your annual limit.
Dental Benefits Expire
Your dental insurance benefits don’t last forever. They expire at the end of the year and your deductible resets. Any money you’ve paid toward your deductible will not be reimbursed and won’t carry over if you don’t reach your annual limit.
Don’t throw money down the drain. Your dentist will help you make the most of what you’ve paid for. You can invest in optimal oral health for minimal out-of-pocket expenses.
Maximize Your Dental Insurance
Your dental insurance will recommend choosing a dentist in your network to enjoy more coverage at the time of service. You’ll benefit from pre-negotiated rates for select services to lower the amount you have to pay.
You can still use your insurance at an out-of-network dentist to enjoy more freedom to choose your dentist and the services offered. Your insurance will pay a set amount and you’ll be responsible for any remaining balance.
You can achieve a healthy, attractive smile without spending your life’s savings. Your dental team will work with you to utilize your coverage to help you save money down the road.
About Dr. Rajiv Shekhadiya
Dr. Shekhadiya earned his dental degree from New York University and has regularly continued his education to provide the most up-to-date services. He accepts many dental insurance plans to keep his services affordable for everyone. He is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or contact his office at (469) 607-8009.