4 Questions to Ask to Help You Understand Your Dental Insurance Better

Dental insurance is a frustrating topic to navigate for many people. All of the complicated jargon, long wait times on the phone talking to representatives, and varying plan coverage can make understanding your benefits feel impossible. Fortunately, financial coordinators at your dental practice can help you learn more about your benefits and allow you to get the most out of your plan before it renews on January 1^st. To learn more, you can also read below for four helpful dental insurance-related questions to ask to yourself.

What is a Copayment?

If your plan requires you to pay a copayment, this is a fee that you’re responsible to pay each time you receive a dental treatment. Some plans have set, flat fees per visit, while others may require you to pay a certain portion of whatever treatment that you get. The best way to learn whether you have to pay a copayment or coinsurance during your visit is to see if it’s listed on your insurance card or to contact your provider directly. Your dental professional should also be able to help you with this as well.

How Much is Your Deductible?

Every insurance plan has a deductible, which is a set amount that the company will require you to pay before they will begin to cover any treatments that you receive from your dentist. Typically, plan deductibles are around $50 to $100. This means that you’ll need to pay this amount out of your own pocket before your dental insurance benefits kick in. Every year on January 1^st, this amount will reset and has the ability to change, so it’s a good idea to get all of the treatments you need before the start of the new year to save yourself from unnecessary out-of-pocket costs.

Have You Met Your Yearly Maximum Yet?

Every insurance plan also has a yearly maximum, which is a capped-off amount of money that your provider will agree to pay out for your dental treatments. Just like your deductible, it will restart every year on January 1^st. That means that in order to get the most out of your plan, you’ll want to try to meet your maximum before your plan renews.

When Does Your Dental Insurance Plan Renew?

Many people aren’t aware that their plan expires or renews every year. In order to get the most out of your investment in insurance, be sure to visit your dentist twice each year for a checkup and cleaning (which are typically covered completely by your benefits), and make sure to meet or exceed your maximum by December 31st.

Dental insurance is an investment that’s well worth it, as long as you understand your benefits and navigate them effectively. If you ever need help, always remember that you can reach out to your dental office’s financial coordinator to ask questions!

About the Author

Dr. Gustavo Arrechea is an experienced family dentist that is passionate about providing affordable dentistry for patients of all ages. He is dedicated to continuing his education and sharpening his skills by taking advanced courses, allowing him to become certified in Level 2 Sedation. He is proud to accept Medicaid and CHIP as well as virtually all PPO plans. For questions about your dental insurance plan or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 214-233-9460.