We accept the vast majority of major private insurance plans. We also accept Medicaid and CHIP dental care plans.
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How dental insurance works
Typically dental insurance plans are separated from most medical insurance plans. Therefore, there are a few important things to consider when selecting the right dental plan for you.
Usually, dental insurers categorize the procedures they cover as either preventative, basic, and major.
Most insurance plans cover preventative care such as exams, x-rays, and dental cleanings with minimal to no out-of-pocket expense to you.
Basic procedures, such as periodontics (gum disease) treatments, extractions, fillings, and root canals often require out-of-pocket contributions. Depending on your plan, the insurer will cover anywhere from 50% to 80% of the cost of the procedure; you are responsible for the rest.
Major procedures, such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and oral surgery do require out-of-pocket expenses; however, coverage depends on your plan.
Dental insurance usually does not cover cosmetic procedures.
What to consider when selecting a dental plan
Gentle Dental recommends that you consider the following things when selecting a dental plan for yourself and/or your family:
- How much will the plan cover annually? Note that once you reach the maximum amount of coverage per year, you are responsible for paying the rest. This is different from medical insurance (where insurers max out how much a patient has to pay yearly out-of-pocket).
- Is there a waiting period? If so, how long? Certain dental insurers enforce a waiting period before any treatment is covered.
- Consider usage. What will you use your dental plan for? Is there any dental work you’re going to need, and if so, when? What procedures are you prepared to pay for?
- Consider the cost of the plan you are choosing. What are the premiums and deductibles? And, back to the first point, how much will the insurer cover per year and how will that change over time?
