Dental Insurance

Dental insurance is an integral part of your overall health and well-being.

Most people know dental insurance is essential, but they may not know why. Dental insurance covers preventive care, such as cleanings and checkups, as well as major procedures, like root canals and crowns. That means you can get the care you need without breaking the bank.

Not only is dental insurance necessary for your oral health, but it is also important for your overall health. Studies have shown a link between oral health and heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.

Why Is Dental Insurance Important

Dental insurance carries many benefits, both for your oral health and your overall health.

  • Oral hygiene. Dental insurance helps you maintain good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene is vital for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. It is also beneficial for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Regular cleanings and checkups detect problems early when they are easier to treat.
  • Affordability. Dental insurance can make dental care more affordable. Dental care can be expensive, especially if you need a major procedure like a root canal or a crown. Dental insurance helps you pay for the care you need at a price you can afford.
  • Prevention. Dental insurance covers preventive care, such as cleanings, x-rays, and checkups. Preventative maintenance can help you avoid problems like tooth decay and gum disease. 
  • Peace of mind. Dental insurance gives you peace of mind. Knowing you have dental insurance means you can get the care you need without worrying about the cost.

Overview of Dental Insurance Coverage

 

There are three main types of dental insurance coverage: preventive, basic, and major.

Preventative Care

Preventive care is covered at 100% by most dental insurance plans. This includes routine cleanings and checkups. Getting preventive care is beneficial because it can help you avoid more severe and expensive problems down the road.

Basic Dental Care

Basic dental care is covered at around 80% by many dental insurance plans. This includes fillings, extractions, and X-rays. However, if you have a chronic condition like periodontal disease, you may need more extensive care.

Major Dental Care

Many dental insurance plans with a low monthly premium do not cover major dental care. Dental plans with higher premiums may offer some coverage. This includes dental implants, dentures, and bridges.

Reviewing Your Dental Plan Options

When you are shopping for dental insurance, you will come across many different options. Here is a quick overview of some of the most common types of dental plan options to consider:

    • Premiums. A premium is an amount you will pay for dental insurance each month. Premiums depend on several factors, including the type of dental plan you choose and the coverage it provides.
    • Deductibles. A deductible is an amount you must pay for dental care before your insurance kicks in. Deductibles can vary, so choosing a plan with a deductible you can afford is crucial.
    • Annual maximums. Most dental insurance plans will have an annual maximum benefit. This is the most your insurance will pay for dental care in a year. Once you reach the yearly maximum, you will be responsible for paying the rest of the costs yourself.
    • Co-insurance. Co-insurance is the percentage of dental care costs you will have to pay after you have met your deductible. For example, if your plan has a 70/30 co-insurance, you will be responsible for paying 30% of dental care costs after you have met your deductible.
    • Co-payments. A co-payment is a fixed amount you will pay for dental care. For example, you may have to pay $20 for an office visit co-payment at the time of service.
    • Frequency limits. Many dental insurance plans have frequency limits. This means there is a limit on how often you can receive certain services. For example, you may be limited to two cleanings per year.
    • Wait periods. Many dental insurance plans have wait periods for certain services. This means you will have to wait a certain amount of time after enrolling in the plan before receiving the service.

Tips for Finding the Best Dental Insurance Plan

There are a few things you should keep in mind when you are shopping for dental insurance:

  • Know your needs. Take some time to think about your dental needs. If you have healthy teeth, you may not need as much coverage as someone with many dental issues.
  • Compare plans. There are a lot of different dental insurance plans on the market. It is essential to compare plans before you choose one. Make sure to compare premiums, deductibles, and coverage levels.
  • Check the network. If you have a preferred dentist, ensure they are in the network for the dental insurance plan you are considering.
  • Read the fine print. Dental insurance plans come with a lot of fine print. Make sure you understand what is covered and what is not before you enroll.

Who Needs Dental Insurance

Most people can benefit from dental insurance.

Dental insurance is vital for children. This is because children’s teeth are more susceptible to decay than adults. Having dental insurance can help you pay for your child’s care to keep their teeth healthy.

Dental insurance is also essential for seniors. Seniors are at greater risk of dental problems like tooth decay or gum disease. Dental insurance can help you pay for your care to keep your mouth healthy as you age.

Get In Touch to Learn More About Your Insurance Options

If you have any questions about whether or not you need dental insurance, I can help. As a dental insurance agent, I can help you understand your options and find the right coverage for your needs.  Contact me today to discuss your dental insurance options.

Here is a webpage for your review with Dental Insurance Quotes.