Dental Insurance Articles
Three Popular Dental Insurance Coverage Options
2010-11-21
Dental insurance coverage is available in several different plans. It's important to know all of the coverage options that are available for you to choose from so that you opt for the plan that is the best fit for your needs. Without the proper plan, you may find yourself paying for dental services and treatments that should be covered. Many people cannot afford to pay for expensive dental services out of pocket.
A traditional dental plan, also referred to as an indemnity plan, allows patients to pay for services as they are received. Typically, an indemnity plan will cover the full amount of most preventative services and routine check ups. For more comprehensive services, an indemnity plan will cover a majority of the cost. Indemnity plans will pay for the amount that they deem to be reasonable and usual. If the dentist charges more than that determined amount, the patient will be responsible for the remainder.
Managed care dental insurance coverage is another one of the most popular dental coverage options available. With this type of plan, patients will receive a comprehensive list of dental coverages in exchange for a monthly premium. Managed care is getting more popular these days because by paying a monthly premium to a dental health management organization (DHMO), patients can go to the dentists who belong to the DHMO for all their dental treatment needs (as indicated on the dental plan) within the time set on the insurance policy. Services such as cleaning, regular check ups, and x-rays are normally provided to patients at no charge, but more complex treatments, such as root canals, require the insured to pay a portion of the cost. With a managed care plan, patients must use the services of a dental provider within an approved network.
In a PPO, or preferred Provider Organization things operate much like a health insurance plan. A dental PPO is similar to managed care in some ways. Patients have the flexibility to use the services of a dental provider located in or out of the network. Like a managed care dental plan, patients are required to pay a monthly premium in order to receive these services. A patient may be required to pay a higher deductible and co-payments if seeking treatment outside of the network.
By understanding all of the coverage options that are out there, you will be better informed and aware of the benefits and exclusions of each plan. You should always compare the cost of premiums and what requirements the plan has regarding your freedom to choose what dentist will provide your care. By comparing different dental insurance coverages, you will understand what services are covered and which are not.