If you’re wondering how to get the most out of your dental insurance, you’re not alone. Everyone wants to maximize their benefits and get the most from their monthly insurance premiums, and in this blog from the office of Brett Blacher, DDS, we’ll discuss a few steps you should take to get the most from your plan.
1. Make Sure To See An In-Network Dental Provider
Although you don’t need to see an in-network provider to have your plan cover part of your dental costs, most PPO dental plans will pay more toward your treatment if you see a dentist within your plan.
Most dentists accept a wide variety of insurances. Dr. Brett Blacher, for example, accepts Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, Dentemax, Cigna, Guardian, Humana/Compbenefits, Metlife, and Principal. Just get in touch to ask about our accepted insurances and get the dental care you need in Lombard.
2. Get Two Preventive Exams Each Year
Almost all dental insurance plans cover 100% of the cost of two oral exams and teeth cleanings per year, as well as one set of annual x-rays. Some plans also cover the cost of periodontal care for gum disease, but this may differ between each insurer.
By getting two exams and an annual set of x-rays, you’re making the most of this “free” care. In contrast, if you just see Dr. Blacher every year, you’re basically leaving money on the table!
3. Learn The 100/80/50 Rule
Most dental plans follow the 100/80/50 rule, which means 100% of preventive care is covered, 80% of the cost of basic treatments is covered, and 50% of the cost of major treatments is covered.
Preventive care may include things like oral exams and teeth cleanings. Basic treatments include fillings, root canals, and some other treatments. Major treatments usually include dental bridges, crowns, and dentures.
This is one of the reasons it’s important to get preventive care. Not only is it free with insurance, but catching an oral health issue early may allow you to get a cheaper treatment that’s covered at a higher percentage by insurance, like a filling instead of a dental crown.
4. Consider Your Yearly Deductible & Annual Maximum
Your yearly deductible is how much you need to pay each year before your insurance benefits kick in. Most plans have this set at between $25 and $250, but it can vary. If you hit this deductible, your insurer will pay out according to your individual plan until you reach your annual maximum.
As the name implies, the annual maximum is the total amount your plan will pay toward your dental care each year. Most plans set this at $1,000 to $2,000. Once you reach this limit, you will have to pay for the remaining cost of your care out of pocket.
Contact The Office Of Dr. Brett Blacher To Get The Care You Need In Lombard
At our office, Dr. Blacher accepts all major insurances. And even if you don’t have insurance, we keep costs low and provide financing options like CareCredit so that you can get the treatment you need in Lombard. Contact us online or give us a call.
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