Across the country, many people do not have access to dental insurance. But even if your workplace does offer dental benefits, or you are willing to pay for insurance through the marketplace, it may not be the bargain that it seems to be. For some people, an in-house dental plan may actually save them much more money in the long run.
At Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale proudly offers a great in-house dental plan. Our personalized plans offer generous discounts on many procedures. And because you don’t have to worry about unexpected costs or high deductibles, it is much easier to budget for your dental care.
If you are closely watching your budget or simply want to be a good steward of your finances, contact us to learn more about our in-house dental plan.
What exactly does insurance cover?
Many insurance plans will cover all preventive services (i.e., exams and cleanings) at 100%. Basic treatments, like root canals or fillings, may be covered at 100% to 80%. However, they may have strict requirements as to exactly what they will cover. For example, an insurance company may only cover the cost of basic metal fillings, not tooth-colored composite. Other restorative treatments – like crowns, dentures, and bridges – may be covered at anywhere from 80% to 50%.
Insurance usually does not cover the cost of elective cosmetic treatments. They may cover some orthodontia, but there is usually a limit as to how much they will cover and for how long.
Is dental insurance worth it?
Dental insurance may be worth it, depending on your unique health and how good your policy really is. Financial guru Dave Ramsey points out that, on average, Americans spend $370 a year on routine preventive dental care. The average cost of dental insurance is $47 a month. If you multiply this by 12, you are paying $564 per year.
Now, of course, if you face an unexpected dental procedure, you could wind up paying much more without insurance. But you also have to consider your yearly maximum. Unlike medical insurance, which will cover all of your costs after a certain limit, dental insurance will stop covering you after you reach a certain amount. Plus, there are some restorative procedures, like implants, which will not be covered at all.
What are the advantages of an in-house dental plan?
An in-house dental plan makes routine preventive care very affordable. Moreover, it often offers discounts on procedures that insurance would deem “non-essential” and therefore not covered. For instance, many in-house plans will significantly cut the costs for teeth whitening or orthodontia. You also don’t have to worry about unexpected claim denials, fine print clauses, or hidden fees.
Learn More About Our In-House Dental Plan Today
To find out if our in-house dental plan is the right fit for your budget and oral health, contact Austin Laser Dentist today.
Reach us online or call us at (512) 346-4690.
