Taking care of your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health, but it can be costly. Dental procedures such as routine cleanings, fillings, and braces can add up quickly, leaving you with a hefty bill. That’s where dental insurance comes in. This type of insurance can help you cover the cost of dental care, but how exactly does it work? In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about dental insurance.
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What is Dental Insurance?
Dental insurance is a type of health insurance that covers the cost of dental procedures and treatments. It works by paying a portion of the cost of your dental care, leaving you to pay the rest out of pocket. The insurance company usually provides a list of dentists covered under your specific plan. The amount of coverage you’ll receive depends on your plan and the type of procedure you need. Some plans provide more extensive coverage, while others have limitations. If you have questions about your specific plan, we’re here to help.
Types of Dental Insurance
There are two main types of dental insurance: dental health maintenance organizations (DHMO) and preferred provider organizations (PPO). Dr. Christopher Wolberg explains, “At Cedarwood Dentistry, we do our best to make this process really simple for the patient. Right away, we take a patient’s information, including insurance details and member policy number to collect information like copays, potential questions, etc., and we work to make sure each patient is fully educated when it comes to their dental benefit.”
Plan Coverage
When you sign up for dental insurance, your plan will specify what procedures and treatments are covered. This can vary depending on your insurance provider and the policy you choose. Many plans cover basic procedures such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions, while more extensive procedures like orthodontics and root canals may require additional coverage. Dr. Wolberg shares that the staff at Cedarwood Dentistry will always work with patients to fully maximize their dental benefits. He says, “When we have a good understanding of a patient’s dental benefit, we may work with the patient to determine which procedures are most urgent, and we’ll work together to prioritize other items over time.”
Costs and Payments
The cost of dental insurance can vary depending on your location and the plan you choose. Generally, you’ll pay a monthly premium for coverage, and there may be additional costs for certain procedures. Most plans also require you to pay a deductible, which is the amount you’ll pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Once you meet your deductible, you’ll pay a portion of the cost of your dental care, with the insurance company covering the rest.
When it comes to filing claims at Cedarwood Dentistry, we will always counter any claim denials before we send a bill to a patient. Dr. Wolberg explains, “If an insurance company opts not to pay for a specific service, we will always challenge and appeal denials to ensure our patients get every dollar of value out of their dental benefit that they possibly can.”
What Comes Next?
Dental insurance can be an essential investment in your overall oral health. By understanding how it works and what to expect, you can make informed decisions about your dental care and choose a plan that fits your needs and budget. Ultimately, the team at Cedarwood Dentistry is dedicated to making this process as simple as possible. We always look for ways for you to maximize your benefit to get the care you need. If you’re unsure about your plan, give Cedarwood Dentistry a call, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.
At Cedarwood Dentistry, we cultivate dental health through personalized care. We offer a variety of dental services, including family dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and emergency care in Midlothian, Virginia. Whether you last visited the dentist six months or six years ago, we can help bring your smile to life. Schedule your dentist appointment today by calling 804-379-9375.