01 Feb How Do I Best Use My Dental Insurance?

If you have a dental insurance policy, you may be wondering how you can make the most of your insurance when it’s time to get dental care. In this blog from Smile Society General Dentistry, we’ll help you learn a bit more about the basics and give you some top tips. 

1. Make Sure You See An In-Network Dentist

First and foremost, it’s important to see a dentist that actually accepts your insurance plan. Failing to find an in-network dentist means you’ll probably pay a lot more for your care. At Smile Society General Dentistry, we accept most insurance plans from Principal, MetLife, United Healthcare, Delta Dental and more. You can contact us for more information. 

2. Understand The 100/80/50 Rule

Most dental plans follow the “100/80/50” rule, which means 100% of the cost of preventive care, such as teeth cleanings, is covered. 80% of the cost of  “basic procedures” like fillings is covered, and 50% of the cost of “major restorative care” like dentures, bridges, or crown is covered. 

3. Know Your Annual Maximum & Deductible

These two concepts are related but distinct, and it’s important to know both to get the most from your dental insurance. 

• Deductible – This is how much you pay out-of-pocket for dental care before your dental plan begins to pay for your treatment. This is usually between $25 and $250. Once you’ve paid this much, your plan will pay for further treatment until you reach your annual maximum.  
• Annual maximum – Dental plans have an annual maximum. Once your insurer has paid this amount toward your dental care each year, you will pay the remaining costs out-of-pocket. This usually ranges from $1,000 to $2,000. 

To maximize your benefits, you want to make sure you hit your deductible when you need dental work, but that you stay below your annual maximum each year. 

4. Get Two Teeth Cleanings & Oral Exams Each Year

Most dental plans cover 100% of the cost of two yearly teeth cleanings and oral exams, as well as annual x-rays. Make sure you come and see Smile Society General Dentistry every six months for your consultation with Dr. Singh or Dr. Sulaiman. If you don’t, you’re leaving money on the table! 

5. Consider An In-House Membership Plan

If you don’t have insurance, we also offer an in-house membership plan for a low monthly cost. For adults, this cost is $25/month. This covers 2 teeth cleanings and exams, all necessary x-rays, and 1 emergency exam with an x-ray each year. You’ll also get discounts on all of your other treatments at Smile Society General Dentistry. Give us a call at (609) 779-2054 for more information. 

Need A General Dentist In West Windsor? We’re Here To Help!

 At Smile Society General Dentistry, we serve patients of all ages, and we accept all major insurance coverage. Not only that, our in-house plan makes it easy to get the care you need even if you don’t have insurance. Contact us today or call now at (609) 779-2054 to schedule your next appointment.