Okemos, Lansing, East Lansing MI
More Americans than ever currently have dental insurance. At least, that is what the data says, according to the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP). Their research shows that 88% of the U.S. population has some type of dental coverage, either through their workplace, a group plan, an individual plan or public health benefits. However, dental insurance and medical insurance operate differently and have different limitations. Dr. Christine Tenaglia understands that knowing how to use dental coverage can be a challenge. That’s why we put together this guide, today on the blog.
Like any type of insurance, a dental plan has limits.
You may face certain restrictions, based on the rules and regulations of your plan and the policies of your provider.
These restrictions may include:
- A waiting period
- Limits on how often you can go to the dentist on your coverage
- A cap on maximum benefits allowed in a year
- Exclusion of certain services
That last restriction warrants some additional exploration. As a general rule, dental insurance covers procedures such as restorative dental work and oral surgery, but typically does not cover preventive care or procedures that classify as cosmetic dentistry – insurers usually define these latter two categories of treatments as elective.
What you need to know about dental insurance
There are two key terms you need to know about your dental coverage.
Usual and customary: This phrase describes the dollar amount that has been negotiated with your insurer. This sum also may be referred to as an allowable amount. This is the amount of money your insurance provider has agreed to pay for dental care. It is also, oftentimes, lower than the full price of what dentists charge for procedures and treatments. An insurance company pays a negotiated percentage of the total cost, based on the allowable amount.
Deductible: This is the amount that is negotiated by your insurance company and paid out of pocket by the consumer before insurance benefits begin to cover the cost of your care. For example, if you have a $500 deductible, you will need to pay for this amount in services before your insurer provides compensation to the dentist. The requirements of a deductible can vary from company to company, as well as from plan to plan.
How can I make best use of my dental insurance?
Tenaglia Smiles works with, and processes, all types of dental coverage. We do not belong to a managed care network such as an HMO, which may preclude you from receiving certain services or working with the provider you prefer. Our administrative staff can help prepare all the forms you need to use your dental benefits. However, it is important to remember that, in any instance in which insurance does not cover the entire cost of a treatment, you are responsible for paying any remaining financial obligation.
Tenaglia Smiles accepts a wide variety of different payment options, including:
- Cash
- Checks
- Major credit cards, including Visa, Discover, American Express and MasterCard
We also can connect you with third-party financing partners such as CareCredit or Lending Club, and provide a 5% discount on treatments that cost at least $3,000 when the balance is paid fully seven days before the scheduled appointment.
Helping you understand your dental insurance in Okemos, East Lansing, and Lansing, Michigan
You are paying for dental insurance; make sure you are getting the most of your coverage. Our staff is here to help. Just contact the office of Tenaglia Smiles today by calling (517) 347-6733 or visit us online.