There are many dental plans available today and they are not all created equal.
There are certain things to know when choosing a dental insurance plan:
Do you have a dentist with whom you are comfortable. If so it is important that your plan allows you to choose your dentist rather than have the plan choose for you. Many plans have a network of dentists who are members of the plan. Is your dentist in the network and if not, can you use the insurance outside of the network?
Does the plan only permit the cheaper dental treatments. Does the plan allow you and your dentist to choose the best treatment for you regardless of the costs?
Does the plan allow for at least two cleanings and exams per year and at least one series of bitewings xrays?
Is there a waiting period before certain types of procedures are covered?
Are the benefit percentages based on the dentist’s actual fees or on an insurance company fee schedule?
Are endodontics (root canal treatment), periodontics, (gum treatment) and prosthodontics (crowns, bridges, dentures) covered. At what percentages are they covered?
Does the plan cover orthodontic care?
What is the plan maximum payout per year?
What is the deductible per year. Is the deductible waived for preventive services?
Is a predetermination required before dental treatment is rendered?
When choosing the perfect dental plan, don’t just consider premiums. A plan may be cheap but you may not get your money’s worth. It always pays to read your plan’s fine print – that’s where you will find the restrictions on your plan.
If you see a plan that seems to fit your needs, check out the company’s track record and see if they have a history of good customer service and timely payment.
You can always check with your dental office and see if they have information about any plan you are considering.
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