What Do I Need To Do To Maximize My Dental Insurance Benefits? 

Cost is always a concern when getting dental care, especially if you suspect you may have some major oral health issues. So how can you get the most from your insurance benefits in McAllen? Read on to see the steps that North Park Dental recommends you take when planning your care.

1. See An In-Network Dentist For Care

Because most dental plans are PPOs, you will pay less for care if you see a dentist who is “in-network.” You still have the option of out of network care, but this is more expensive. At North Park Dental, we accept Sunlife, Careington, and Cigna, and work with a few other major insurance companies. Call us at (956) 997-4044 for more information.  

2. Get Two Preventive Appointments Each Year

To keep your mouth healthy, you should see Dr. Munoz for a teeth cleaning and oral exam every six months. This also helps you maximize your benefits, since most dental insurance companies cover 100% of the cost of twice-yearly preventive care like teeth cleanings and oral exams.

3. Understand The 100-80-50 Coverage Structure

Unfortunately, dental plans don’t offer full coverage, unlike health insurance. Most plans operate using a 100-80-50 coverage structure.

This means that 100% of preventive care, like teeth cleanings, will be covered by your plan. However, “basic” and “major” treatments are covered at 80% and 50%, respectively. Basic treatments usually include fillings and root canals, while major treatments include crowns, bridges, and dentures.

4. Know Your Yearly Deductible & Annual Maximum 

Dental plans have deductibles that work similarly to health insurance. These range from $25 to $250 in most plans. After you pay your deductible, your insurance plan covers your dental care based on your policy agreement. 

However, it will only pay out up to an annual maximum. This is usually between $1,000 and $2,000. Once you reach this limit, you will pay out-of-pocket for all other treatments for the remainder of the calendar year. 

5. Read Through Your Insurance Agreements For More Information

If you’re not sure what benefits your insurance provides, it’s a good idea to read through your policy information or contact your insurer directly. The above information is only good for general guidance, and policies can vary quite a bit, so make sure you do some research to find out what kind of coverage your policy will give you.

Get Expert Care Without Breaking The Bank At North Park Dental

At North Park Dental, we’re here to help you make the most of your insurance benefits, and we also serve uninsured patients with compassionate care. If you’re uninsured, you can get our New Patient Special for $125, which includes a teeth cleaning and oral exam and a full set of x-rays. 

We also accept many payment options and offer financing through CareCredit. If you need affordable, compassionate care in McAllen, contact North Park Dental online or give us a call at (956) 997-4044 to get started right away.