If you’ve started a new job recently, you may have dental insurance that you haven’t used, and might not even understand. Dental insurance works a little bit differently from health insurance; there are a few quirks about it that are good to know if you want to make the most of your money.
If you’re curious, here are some facts worth knowing about dental insurance if you want your money to work well for you.
Fact #1: It Covers Care at a Flat Rate
You may be used to the normal healthcare system, and in some ways dental insurance is similar. However, the biggest difference has to do with the percentage at which care is covered.
While health insurance covers a flat rate for all care after your deductible has been reached, dental insurance pays for different kinds of care at different rates. Preventive care, like checkups and cleanings, will tend to be cheaper than restorative care like fillings and root canals.
Fact #2: There are Yearly Maximums
You might have noticed that dental insurance is substantially cheaper than health insurance; often, your premium will be less than a tenth of it. That may have something to do with the fact that, unlike health insurance, dental insurance will only pay out so much money over the course of a single year.
This annual maximum means that you should plan expensive restorative dental treatments so that they are spread across multiple years, ensuring that you don’t exceed either year’s cap.
Fact #3: Many Workplace Policies Cover Braces
For the most part, the standard dental plan you get through the exchange will not cover orthodontic care. That’s why many workplaces offer braces stipends to supplement the dental insurance they offer. You can think of this like an HSA, except that it’s only suitable for one-time use.
If you or someone in your family needs braces soon, it may be worth inquiring with your employer specifically about if they will provide you with that style of coverage.
About Our Practice
At Columbus Dental Arts, we believe that every patient we see deserves a dental team that will go above and beyond to meet their needs. When you visit us, you won’t have to worry about being just plopped in the waiting room or rushed through your appointment; we’ll take the time to get to know you as an individual and tailor your treatment specifically to you.
If you have any questions about how dental insurance works, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (609) 324-9500.