How prevention pays

Preventing tooth decay and gum disease is less expensive than treating them with more extensive procedures. Reducing gum disease is also connected to better overall health for those with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy, and rheumatoid arthritis. Dental benefits focused on preventive care are the most effective way to promote better oral and overall health at a lower cost.

What does Prevention Pays do for my dental plan?

Our dental plans have what’s called an “annual maximum benefit.”  The annual maximum benefit is the total dollar amount the dental plan will pay for covered services during a plan year. Having our Prevention Pays feature exempts diagnostic and preventive dental services and some periodontal (gum disease) services from the calculation of the plan’s annual maximum benefit.

You’re covered for preventive care.

Having Prevention Pays means preventive services like exams, cleanings, x-rays, and periodontal maintenance cleanings are covered even if you have reached your annual maximum benefit. It also means you have more benefits available to help pay for treatment procedures like cavity fillings, crowns and root canals if they’re needed.

The new standard in dental plans.

Starting July 1, 2020, the Prevention Pays feature will be included in existing fully insured plans and becomes a standard part of our fully insured dental plans. On average, the Prevention Pays feature extends an additional $500 in coverage every year!

Note: other plan design details like deductible, co-insurance, and frequency limits, if any, still apply.  Self-insured plans are not automatically included, but may include the feature. Check your specific dental plan for details.

Maximum value with Health through Oral Wellness®.

Plans with our Health through Oral Wellness program include added preventive care benefits if you’re at high risk of tooth decay or gum disease. Adding Prevention Pays means you will also be covered for the additional preventive care benefits you may unlock through your Health through Oral Wellness risk assessment.

Prevention Pays is another way Delta Dental of South Dakota helps you unleash your #SmilePower.