Recent surveys have found that two-thirds of adults and 90% of children have dental insurance. Dental insurance is an investment in your oral health because it allows you to get the services you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy for minimal expenses. If you’re considering dental insurance, or have just signed up for a new policy, you may have a waiting period. Here’s what you need to know about using your coverage during this time.
How Dental Insurance Works
Dental insurance focuses on preventive services to stop common oral health issues from occurring in the first place. Not only does this keep your teeth and gums healthy, but it also reduces your overall dental expenses. Your premiums give you access to a network of dental professionals. You can visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup for a co-payment.
If a problem occurs, like a cavity, your dental insurance will pay some of the costs after meeting your annual deductible. This is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance will cover some of the expenses. You are given a yearly allowance to use toward the cost of medically necessary procedures. Although every plan differs, most policies include:
- 100% of preventive services
- 80% of basic dental services
- 50% of major dental services
Dental Insurance Waiting Periods
A dental insurance waiting period is designed to prevent people from signing up for coverage to have dental work and then canceling their policy afterward. Waiting periods can range from 30 days to 1 year. This doesn’t mean you can’t use your insurance during this time. Instead, only certain services will be covered, like cleanings and checkups. Major dental procedures will have to wait, like dental crowns, bridges, or implants.
Although waiting periods aren’t usual, not all dental plans have them. Many employer-based dental plans don’t have waiting periods. If you are currently insured and plan to change providers, the new provider may waive the waiting period, or limit it to only a couple of months.
While you may not have access to all of your benefits right away, it’s time well-spent. In no time at all, you can use your coverage to invest in your best smile. Your dentist will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to make the most of your annual benefits. They’ll help you achieve a healthy smile without it costing you an arm or a leg.
About Dr. Chung Chien Hsia
Dr. Hsia earned his dental degree from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine and has completed advanced training in sedation, dental implants, and much more. He accepts many dental insurance plans to keep healthy smiles affordable. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (214) 617-9134.
