There are many things that you need to be aware of when you sign up for a new dental insurance plan. In particular, you may find that your plan comes with a waiting period. What exactly does this mean? Why is there a waiting period in the first place? These are questions you’ll want to find the answers to before you make any commitments. Fortunately, your dentist is here to explain dental insurance waiting periods and how they can affect your ability to get care.
What is a Dental Insurance Waiting Period?
After you purchase dental insurance, your full benefits won’t kick in until a set date in the future. The time before that date is known as the waiting period, and until it ends, your dental insurance carrier will not pay for certain procedures.
The exact length of the waiting period can vary depending on which plan you have. Some waiting periods are as short as a single month, but others can last for up to a year.
Why Does Dental Insurance Come with a Waiting Period?
Dental insurance focuses on prevention, encouraging patients to get the care they need to avoid complex dental issues that require more costly treatments. As such, the waiting period is meant to be a deterrent for those who might only buy dental insurance for a specific procedure and then simply let it expire afterward. This approach is beneficial to both the insurance company and its customers since it helps keep the cost of premiums and coverage low.
Can You Still Go to the Dentist During the Waiting Period?
It should be noted that the waiting period for dental insurance often doesn’t apply to routine preventive care such as biannual checkups and cleanings. Thus, even if you just purchased your dental insurance, there’s a good chance that you will already be able to use it to help pay for a routine dental appointment.
The waiting period is more likely to apply to dental crowns, bridges, and other major forms of restorative dentistry. It’s worth reviewing your plan to see which types of services have a waiting period and exactly how long that period will be.
It’s important to make sure that you fully understand the specifics of your dental insurance plan so that you can take full advantage of your benefits. Speak to your insurance carrier if you have any questions related to the waiting period or any other aspects of your coverage.
About the Author
Dr. Rajiv Shekhadiya went to New York University for his Doctor of Dental Surgery, and he is a proud member of the Texas Dental Association as well as the Dallas County Dental Society. His practice, Celebration Family Dental of Carrollton, is in-network with Delta Dental, Aetna, MetLife, and many other major PPO dental insurance plans. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Shekhadiya, visit his website or call (469) 694-3766.