Cheers To Your Oral Health

Maintaining good oral health is important for overall well-being. We often take our oral health for granted and need constant reminders to take care of ourselves in that area.  Regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and other preventive measures can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent serious dental problems from developing. However, dental care can be expensive, and many people are unable to afford the cost of routine care and necessary treatments without insurance. There are pros and cons to having any type of medical insurance, but most of the time, you are going to be glad that you have it in your back pocket.  Here are some reasons why you should look into dental insurance.

Financial protection

Usually, you are not expecting a dental emergency or procedure to happen, and since we can’t always predict it, we should be prepared.  Dental insurance provides financial protection against unexpected dental expenses. Routine dental care, such as check-ups and cleanings, are typically covered by insurance, as well as necessary treatments like fillings, root canals, and crowns. Without insurance, the cost of these treatments can quickly add up, and many people are unable to afford them without going into debt.

Encourages preventive care

Dental insurance plans typically cover preventive care, such as check-ups and cleanings, at little or no cost to the patient. While you are usually going to be scheduled every six months for a check-up, this encourages people to visit the dentist regularly, which can help identify potential dental problems early on and prevent more serious issues from developing. We all know that most of us try to push that six months as far out as possible, but preventive care is also important for maintaining good oral health, which can have a positive impact on overall health and well-being.

Access to a wider range of treatments

With dental insurance, patients have access to a wider range of treatments and procedures that may not be available or affordable without insurance. For example, orthodontic treatment and cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening or veneers can be costly without insurance. Having insurance can make these treatments more accessible and affordable.

Peace of mind

Having dental insurance can provide peace of mind knowing that you and your family are covered in the event of unexpected dental expenses. It can also help alleviate the stress and anxiety that can come with dental problems, as patients are able to receive the necessary care without worrying about the cost.

But What Does It Cover?

However, many people are unsure about what types of dental procedures are covered by their insurance plan. In this article, we will discuss what types of dental procedures are typically covered by dental insurance.

Preventive care

Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care, such as regular check-ups, cleanings, and X-rays. These are important services that can help prevent more serious dental problems from developing and can help identify potential issues early on.

Restorative procedures

Many dental insurance plans cover restorative procedures, such as fillings, root canals, and crowns. These treatments are designed to restore damaged teeth and improve their function and appearance.

Periodontal treatments

Dental insurance plans may also cover periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planing, which are used to treat gum disease. These treatments can help prevent further damage to the gums and bones that support the teeth.

Orthodontic treatments

While not all dental insurance plans cover orthodontic treatments, some do provide coverage for braces, aligners, and other types of orthodontic appliances. This can be particularly beneficial for children and teenagers who require orthodontic treatment.

Oral surgery

Many dental insurance plans cover oral surgery, such as tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removal. These procedures are typically covered if they are deemed medically necessary.

Cosmetic procedures

Most dental insurance plans do not cover purely cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening and dental veneers. However, some plans may provide limited coverage for cosmetic procedures that have functional benefits, such as dental implants or partial dentures.

So, It Does Cover Veneers?

Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment that can enhance the appearance of your smile by covering up imperfections such as gaps, chips, and stains. They are thin, custom-made shells made of either porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. While dental veneers can be a great option for improving the look of your smile, many patients wonder if they are covered by dental insurance. In this article, we will explore whether dental insurance covers dental veneers.

The short answer is that it depends on your insurance plan. Some dental insurance plans will cover a portion of the cost of dental veneers, while others will not cover them at all. In general, dental insurance plans tend to classify dental veneers as a cosmetic treatment rather than a medically necessary treatment, which means they may not be covered.

If your dental insurance plan does cover dental veneers, it will likely be for a partial amount of the cost, and you will be responsible for the remaining balance. You may also have to meet certain criteria to be eligible for coverage, such as demonstrating that the veneers are necessary for functional reasons, such as improving your bite.

It’s important to note that even if your dental insurance does not cover the cost of dental veneers, many dental practices offer financing options that can make them more affordable. Some dental offices also offer in-house membership plans that provide discounts on dental treatments, including cosmetic procedures such as dental veneers.

In addition to insurance coverage, it’s important to consider the cost of dental veneers in relation to other cosmetic dentistry options. While dental veneers can be a great option for some patients, there are other treatments that may be more appropriate depending on your specific needs and goals.

For example, if you have minor imperfections such as stains or small chips, teeth whitening or dental bonding may be a more cost-effective and less invasive option. On the other hand, if you have more significant damage or wear to your teeth, dental crowns may be a better option than veneers.

And What Does Dental Insurance Not Cover?

You want to be well aware of what you are looking at before you choose your dental insurance.  That means you want to know what things it doesn’t cover. Here are a few items.  

Implant-supported dentures

Implant-supported dentures are a type of denture that is attached to dental implants for added stability and support. While some dental insurance plans may provide coverage for traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures are often not covered or may have limited coverage.

Elective treatments

Elective treatments, such as teeth whitening, are not typically covered by dental insurance. These procedures are considered optional and are not deemed medically necessary. However, some dental plans may offer discounts or partial coverage for elective treatments.

Pre-existing conditions

Many dental insurance plans have exclusions for pre-existing conditions, meaning that they will not cover treatments for dental problems that existed before the start of coverage. This can be a significant limitation for people with pre-existing dental problems.

Interview Your Insurance

It is essential to research what your dental insurance covers and does not cover before purchasing a policy. Understanding the benefits, limitations, and exclusions of your dental insurance plan can help you make informed decisions about your oral health care and avoid unexpected expenses. While dental insurance can be a valuable investment in your overall well-being, it’s crucial to choose a plan that meets your individual needs and provides the coverage you require. By taking the time to research and compare different dental insurance plans, you can find the best coverage for your budget and ensure that you receive the care you need to maintain good oral health.