Are you getting the most out of your dental insurance?

If you have dental insurance, you’re taking an important step in caring for your oral and overall health. But are you getting the full value of the benefits your coverage has to offer?

How to get the most of your dental insurance

Trying to figure out whether you’re getting the most out of your dental coverage can be confusing. Use these tips below to make sure you are getting the full value of having benefits.

Take the time to understand your dental insurance plan

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t read the fine print in your dental coverage information. Although it’s not the most exciting thing to do, it’s an important step in understanding your dental insurance plan. Use our handy infographic for help with some of the most common insurance terms.

Having a clear understanding of the costs you may be responsible for is an important step in getting the most out of your dental insurance. Don’t make the mistake of skipping out on treatments because you don’t understand your insurance plan.

Use preventive oral health care services

One of the most important things you can do to make the most out of your dental insurance plan is to go to regular check-ups and cleanings. Because preventive care is the focus of dental insurance, most dental plans cover 100 percent of the cost of preventive services, so there’s no additional cost to you.

Seeing a dentist twice a year not only keeps your mouth healthy but can also help detect potentially serious (and costly) issues early. Dentists are trained to look for oral health problems like gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer at regular check-ups so they can be treated before they become severe. Taking advantage of preventive services may save you from expensive treatments down the line.

Use in-network dentists

While you are free to see any dentist you choose, dental insurance covers more when you visit a dentist who’s in-network. In-network dentists agree to accept pre-established fees for services. Because out-of-network dentists are not under contract with an insurance provider, they can charge patients at any rate and benefits are not likely to cover costs.

With Delta Dental, you also get balance billing protection when visiting an in-network dentist. That means the dentist has agreed to accept the negotiated fee for the service and cannot bill you the difference between the negotiated fee and what the dentist charges.

The good news is that 96% of dentists in South Dakota are in-network, making it easy for you to find a dentist who works best for you!

Reach out to your insurance provider 

If you’re having a hard time understanding your dental insurance, you may find yourself avoiding procedures that can improve your oral health. Don’t let this be the case! Always reach out to your dental insurance company’s customer service team with questions regarding costs and coverage. They should be able to answer any questions you have and clarify any confusion around your plan.

Getting the most out of your dental insurance plan doesn’t need to be difficult

Remember, dental insurance is designed to help you maintain good oral health and manage the costs of dental care. By being proactive, informed, and using your benefits effectively, you can get the most out of your dental coverage.

To learn more about dental insurance, check out this blog.