A good percentage of American families have dental benefits through an employer or another means. However, it can be confusing to understand at first. You know that you can go to your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups without issue, but what if you have an urgent dental problem that needs to be addressed? Will your dental insurance help to pay for your visit? Here’s what you should know.
Will My Emergency Dental Treatment Be Covered?
Your visit will likely receive partial coverage. However, the percentage of your treatment that is covered depends on the type of emergency that you have and the treatment that you need to restore your oral health. That’s why it’s nearly impossible to know exactly how much you will be expected to pay out of picket and how much will be covered by insurance until after you see your dentist and have the issue identified.
What Does Dental Insurance Cover?
Every dental insurance plan is a little bit different, so you will need to seek this information from your provider to be certain. Here is the typical structure of dental coverage.
- 100% of preventive care
- 80% of basic restorative procedures
- 50% of major restorative procedures
Every plan has a cap on how much it covers each year. This is called an annual maximum. After you reach this, you are fully responsible for all expenses.
What Does This Look Like for Your Visit?
Since your coverage depends on the type of treatment that you require, the cost of your visit can vary a lot. For instance, if your emergency is due to tooth decay and you need to a filling, approximately 80% of your treatment is likely to be covered. If you need a more complete procedure, you might be left responsible for half of the cost. Just remember that the longer your put off a dental problem, the worse it gets. By seeing your dentist for treatment now, you are more likely to save money going forward.
If you are worried about the cost of your emergency treatment, talk to your dental team. Other options may be available to help fit your treatment into your budget. Getting essential dental care shouldn’t mean breaking the bank!
About the Author
Dr. Tracy Morales earned her dental doctorate from the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. Since then, she has been committed to continuing education to keep her knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, she is affiliated with numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, American Academy of Clear Aligners, Academy of Laser Dentistry, Texas Dental Association, and more! To learn more about emergency dentistry or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (817) 214-3333.
