Navigating the world of dental insurance can be confusing, especially when it comes to understanding what is covered under your plan. Dental specialty procedures, such as implants or orthodontics, often involve a different insurance approach than regular check-ups or cleanings. It’s important to know ahead of time what is covered and what treatments you can afford. Here’s what you should know:
Types of Insurance and What they Cover
There are three main types of dental insurance: Indemnity, Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). Indemnity insurance usually covers a significant portion of your treatment cost and offers the flexibility to visit any dentist. PPO insurance also allows you to choose your dentist, but reimbursements are often higher when you select a dentist within your insurance’s network. Lastly, HMO insurance requires you to choose a dentist within the network and generally provides coverage for preventive care but may offer limited coverage for specialty procedures.
Restorative Procedures Versus Cosmetic Procedures
It’s important to differentiate between restorative and cosmetic procedures as it will affect your insurance coverage. Restorative dentistry includes procedures that are necessary to maintain oral health, like fillings, crowns, root canals, or dental implants. Many dental insurance plans cover a substantial portion of these treatments.
On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening or veneers, are considered nonessential and are often not covered by dental insurance. However, it’s crucial to verify with your insurance provider, as exceptions can sometimes be made if the procedure also offers restorative benefits.
Capital Dental Membership Club
If you find yourself without dental insurance, consider the Capital Dental Membership Club. For a low monthly fee, members receive essential preventive care, such as regular cleanings and exams. Additionally, members enjoy a 20% discount on all other treatments, including specialty and cosmetic procedures that typical insurance might not cover. The Membership Club is available for children and adults and can be canceled and restarted anytime.
When considering where to get your specialty procedures, remember the Center for Implant Dentistry not only provides a broad range of specialty services but also offers affordability options, like in-house financing, to ensure everyone can access the oral health care they deserve. Give us a call at 661-663-9600 to schedule an appointment today!