How Can I Maximize My Dental Insurance And Stay On-Budget For Dental Care?

Whether you’ve got a healthy mouth or you think you may have some serious dental health problems in Pineville, you might be wondering how you can get the most from your dental insurance policy. In this blog from Pineville Family Dentistry, we’ll go over a few “rules of thumb” that can help you maximize your coverage.

1. Choose An In-Network Dentist When You Can

Most dental plans are PPOs, which means you can get out of network care, but in-network care is cheaper. And if your plan is an HMO, you will not get any compensation for out of network care.

That means it’s always a good idea to work with an in-network dentist who accepts your insurance. At Pineville Family Dentistry, we’re in-network with GEHA Connection Dental,

Cigna, MetLife, and Delta, so you’ve got plenty of options in Kingsville and Camp Beauregard. 

2. Get Twice-Yearly Oral Exams & Teeth Cleanings

Insurance plans usually cover 100% of the cost of two yearly oral exams and teeth cleanings, as well as a set of x-rays. So if you don’t see Dr. Babb twice a year, you’re not making the most of your benefits. In addition, six-month visits help you keep your mouth healthy and catch potential issues early, reducing your overall dental expenses.

3. Know The 100-80-50 Coverage Structure For Dental Insurance

The vast majority of dental plans use a 100-80-50 coverage scheme, which means:

• 100% of the cost of preventive care will be covered by your plan. This includes things like teeth cleanings and oral exams
• 80% of the cost of basic care will be covered by your plan. This includes things like fillings and root canals
  
• 50% of the cost of major care will be covered by your plan. This includes things like bridges, dental crowns, and dentures

4. Understand Your Yearly Deductible & Annual Maximums 

Before your plan will start paying toward your dental care, you’ll need to meet your annual deductible, which is usually between $25 and $250. Once you reach this threshold, your benefits will begin paying out.

This will continue until you reach your annual maximum, which is usually between $1,000 or $2,000. Both your deductible and maximum will be reset once a year, usually on January 1st. Keep this in mind when scheduling your dental care with Dr. Troy Babb. 

5. Think About Alternatives If You’re Uninsured

At Pineville Family Dentistry, we know that not everyone has an insurance plan, and we think that shouldn’t stop you from getting expert dental care in Pineville. That’s why we offer a $149 New Patient Special for uninsured patients that includes a teeth cleaning, x-rays, and an oral exam. 

Our Dental Savings Plan is also a good option. Individual memberships start at $199/year, and come with 2 exams and teeth cleanings per year, one set of x-rays, one emergency exam/x-ray, and a discount of up to 20% off all other necessary dental procedures.

Contact Pineville Family Dentistry To Get Started Today 

Whether you have insurance coverage or you’re currently uninsured, Dr. Troy Babb and Pineville Family Dentistry are here to provide budget-friendly, expert care in Pineville. Contact us online or call at (318) 704-5757 to schedule an appointment today.