Dental insurance in Houston provides discounted rates for comprehensive services necessary for your oral health. 156 Americans have dental coverage; however, only 2.8% meet or exceed their annual limits. Let’s face it, dental insurance is confusing, but don’t let that stand in your way of achieving a healthy smile. Your monthly premiums are an investment in your oral health. Here are 4 things to remember to maximize your annual coverage.
1. Preventive Dentistry is Covered 100%
Dental insurance focuses on prevention to stop common oral health issues from occurring, like tooth decay and gum disease. Preserving your dental health prevents an expensive treatment later. Research shows every $1 spent on prevention can save up to $50 on restorative services.
The American Dental Association recommends a cleaning and checkup every 6 months; however, 35.6% of adults haven’t seen a dentist within the past year. You can visit your dentist regularly using your dental insurance. Most plans cover preventive services 100% after a copayment.
2. Common Restorative Procedures are Covered
If your dentist finds an issue during a routine appointment, you shouldn’t wait to have it treated. However, many people delay procedures because of the cost. Unfortunately, this leads to a larger bill later because the untreated problem will continue to worsen.
You don’t have to risk a dental emergency, even if money is tight. Every plan differs, but most dental insurances cover minor restorative services by up to 80%, while major procedures are covered by about 50%. After meeting your deductible, you can use your yearly allowance to offset the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket.
3. Choose the Right Dentist
Everyone has unique needs and preferences, which means not all dentists will be right for you. Thankfully, you have the freedom to visit any dentist that accepts your coverage to find the best fit for your smile.
Your dental insurance will recommend choosing an in-network dentist because they have pre-negotiated rates for specific services. If you choose an out-of-network location, you can still use your benefits, but you’ll have to pay the difference between your insurance’s allowable coverage and the dentist’s fees.
4. Your Dental Benefits Expire
Your dental benefits don’t last forever. They expire at the end of the year. Anything you don’t use won’t accumulate in the following year. You won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductible, even if you never use your coverage. If you don’t use your coverage before the end of the calendar year, you are throwing money in the trash.
Don’t lose what you’ve paid for throughout the year. Use your dental insurance to invest in the healthy smile you deserve without breaking the bank. Your dentist in Houston will handle all the paperwork to make the most of your monthly investment.
About Dr. Gregory Palmer
Dr. Palmer earned his dental degree at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He regularly continues his education to provide advanced services, like laser dentistry and CEREC. Dr. Palmer works with many dental insurance plans to keep his services affordable. Contact our office today to request an appointment.