Dentist: Learning More About Your Dental Insurance

Not every dentist is the same when it comes to dental insurance. Some only take certain policies while others are more accepting. If you are currently shopping around for the right coverage, there are several different factors that need to be considered. Take the time to do a little research before making a final decision.

Which dentists can you see?
If you have a favorite dentist, make sure that the office will take your dental insurance. While you can always find another practitioner, some people become comfortable seeing the same person all the time. You can check with your current dental office to double check whether or not the insurance will be accepted or call the insurance company directly. This should be a priority for someone looking to remain with the same practitioner.

Are regular checkups covered?
You already know that you are going to be in to see the dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and check up. Are these visits covered? Many times preventative care is included in the policy. If not the copays are often minor to encourage patients to make those appointments and take care of their teeth and gums.

Can you see a specialist?
If you have a child that is ready for braces or you know that you may need dental surgery in the near future, check to see if your dental insurance covers specialists. While braces are often an out-of-pocket expense, the regular visits may be subject to copay. Look into the details of the plan and find out which services are covered. Look at your family's current dental situation and choose the policy that will work best for the upcoming year.

What are your copays?
Dental insurance usually means paying copays for visits instead of the total cost. Even though these amounts are minimal, they add up quickly. Find out how much it will cost each time you go in to see the dentist. Check to see if copays are more when you need to see a specialist. Remember the more information you have the better.

Instead of just looking at the specifics of a dental plan, make sure that you look at the overall policy and cost. If your employer offers more than one plan to choose from, compare the two side by side, looking for coverage for your favorite dentist and any other treatments or services that you plan to have during the next year.

If you are searching for a policy on your own, read all of the materials you have before making a decision. You need to consider each of the questions above to make the best decision. If you don't have an answer for any one of the questions, take a little extra time to do some research and learn more about the policy.