By Reno Laser Dentistry
January 07, 2012
Category: Dental Insurance

Dental Insurance an important coverage that we all need, do you have the right plan for yourself or family? Do you really understand what your dental plan covers? What out-of-pocket cost will you have? Looking for the bargain may be wise, but don’t forget to evaluate your needs. Make sure that you have all the facts before making a final decision.

According to the editors at DentalInsurance.com “compiled eight tips to consider when choosing a dental plan.

1. Does the plan give you the freedom to choose?

Your own dentist or are you restricted to a panel of dentists selected by the insurance company? If you have a family dentist with whom you are satisfied, consider the effects changing dentists will have on the quality or quantity of care you receive. Because regular visits to the dentist reduce the likelihood of developing serious dental disease, it’s best to have and maintain an established relationship with a dentist you trust.

2. Who controls treatment decisions?

Many plans require dentists to follow treatment plans that rely on a Least Expensive Alternative Treatment (LEAT) approach. If there are multiple treatment options for a specific condition, the plan will pay for the less expensive treatment option. If you choose a treatment option that may better suit your individual needs and your long-term oral health, you will be responsible for paying the difference in costs. It’s important to know who makes the treatment decisions under your plan. These cost control measures may have an impact on the quality of care you’ll receive.

3. Does the plan cover diagnostic, preventive and emergency services?

If so, to what extent? Most dental plans provide coverage for selected diagnostic services, preventive care and emergency treatment that are basic for maintaining good oral health. But the extent or frequency of the services covered by some plans may be limited. Depending upon your individual oral health needs, you may be required to pay the dentist directly for a portion of this basic care. Find out how much treatment is allowed in any given year without cost to you, and how much you will have to pay for yourself.

Every dental care plan is different. It’s your responsibility to be informed about what your specific plan will cover. As a basis of comparison, the following services should be covered in full, with no deductible or patient co-payment:

  • Initial Oral Examination–once per dentist
  • Recall Examinations–twice per year
  • Complete x-ray survey–once every three years
  • Cavity-detecting bite-wing x-rays–once per year
  • Prophylaxis or teeth cleaning–twice per year
  • Topical Fluoride treatment–twice per year
  • Sealants–for those under age 18

Selecting an insurance program wisely isn’t simple. But having the facts to make an informed decision can make a difference. No plan is perfect; each has its advantages and limitations. Read the fine print. And by all means ask questions. The more you know about dental benefits, the better equipped you will be to select the best coverage for your dental health.”

You can read the entire article at http://www.dentalinsurance.com/di/web/articles/selectingPlan.aspx with the full list of tips to consider when choosing a dental plan.

Contact Dr. McElhinney’s dental practice located in Reno with any questions you may have.

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