Supplemental Dental Insurance Explained

Everyone wants to have healthy teeth and gums, but dental care isn’t always affordable. If you’re looking for ways to save money on dental expenses, supplemental dental insurance may be worth considering. This type of insurance can help you cover the costs of routine preventive care, as well as major dental work like root canals and crowns. In this article, we’ll explain how supplemental dental insurance works and how to choose the right policy for your needs.

What Is Supplemental Dental Insurance?

Supplemental dental insurance is a type of insurance policy that pays for some of the dental costs that are not covered by primary dental insurance. It is also referred to as secondary insurance. This type of insurance is different from a typical dental insurance policy, which pays for basic dental care like checkups, cleanings, and X-rays.

Supplemental dental insurance can help you pay for more expensive dental procedures, like root canals, crowns, and implants. It can also help cover the costs of deductibles, copays, and coinsurance payments. Supplemental dental insurance policies can be purchased on their own, or as an add-on to an existing dental plan.

How Does Supplemental Dental Insurance Work?

Supplemental dental insurance works differently than primary dental insurance. Instead of covering a set amount for each service, supplemental insurance pays a percentage of the total cost of the service. For example, if your primary dental insurance covers 80% of the cost of a filling, your supplemental insurance policy may cover the remaining 20%.

The amount of coverage provided by supplemental dental insurance varies depending on the policy. Some policies cover a percentage of the total cost for major dental procedures, while others cover a set dollar amount per procedure. You’ll need to carefully review the policy details to understand what is covered and how much you will be responsible for paying out-of-pocket.

What Are the Benefits of Supplemental Dental Insurance?

Supplemental dental insurance can provide many benefits to individuals and families who need dental care. Some of the benefits of having supplemental dental insurance include:

  • Lower out-of-pocket costs for dental care
  • More comprehensive coverage for major dental work
  • Greater flexibility in choosing dental providers
  • Peace of mind knowing that you have financial protection for unexpected dental expenses

How Do I Choose the Right Supplemental Dental Insurance Policy?

Choosing the right supplemental dental insurance policy can be challenging. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a policy:

Coverage

Take a close look at what is covered under each policy. Make sure the policy covers the dental services you need, including routine preventive care and major dental work. Look for policies that have low deductibles and coinsurance payments.

Cost

Compare the cost of each policy. Look at the premium as well as any additional costs like deductibles and coinsurance payments. Make sure you understand what you will be responsible for paying out-of-pocket.

Provider Network

Make sure the policy you choose has a provider network that includes dentists and dental specialists in your area. You’ll want to be able to choose the dentist you trust and feel comfortable with.

Reviews

Read reviews of each policy to see what other policyholders have to say. Look for policies with high customer satisfaction ratings and positive reviews from current policyholders.

FAQ

What dental procedures are covered by supplemental dental insurance?

Supplemental dental insurance can cover a wide range of dental procedures, including routine preventive care like checkups and cleanings, as well as major dental work like root canals, crowns, and implants.

Do I need supplemental dental insurance if I have a primary dental plan?

Having supplemental dental insurance can provide additional coverage and help lower your out-of-pocket costs for dental care. However, whether you need supplemental insurance depends on your individual dental needs and financial situation. You may want to consider supplemental insurance if you need major dental work or have a history of dental problems.

How much does supplemental dental insurance cost?

The cost of supplemental dental insurance varies depending on the policy and the level of coverage you choose. Expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 per month for a policy.

Can I choose any dentist with supplemental dental insurance?

Supplemental dental insurance policies typically allow you to choose any licensed dentist, whether or not they are in the policy’s network. However, out-of-network dentists may charge higher fees, so you’ll want to consider the cost before making a decision.

How do I file a claim with my supplemental dental insurance?

To file a claim with your supplemental dental insurance, you’ll need to provide the details of the dental procedure, including the date of service and the total cost. Your insurance provider will then determine how much they will cover and send you a reimbursement check.

Conclusion

Supplemental dental insurance can help you save money on dental care and provide financial protection for unexpected dental expenses. When choosing a policy, make sure to carefully review the coverage, cost, and provider network. With the right policy, you can enjoy greater peace of mind and healthier teeth and gums.