At Dental Arts of New Orleans, we know the world of dental insurance can seem like a strange, difficult system. You’re weighing the options for the various plans, comparing deductibles, trying to understand the benefits, getting clarity on treatment options and much, much more. Just wading through the piles of paperwork can be frustrating!
Our goal is that every member of our local New Orleans community possesses the knowledge they need to navigate this system and take control of their oral health.
In order to do that, we’ve developed this quick breakdown that will give you a basic understanding of dental insurance.
Dental Insurance Basics
Dental insurance can be an important investment to ensure that you’re able to afford and plan for a healthier, happier mouth. If you want to get the most value from your plan, there are a few aspects you need to understand.
Let’s walk through a few of the most common questions we hear at Dental Arts of New Orleans.
What is dental insurance?
- Dental Insurance is not Medical Insurance.
- Dental Insurance was never intended to cover more than 50% of the most expensive dental procedures.
- When you sign up for dental insurance, you now have a plan that will pay for a certain percentage of your yearly dental care. Every plan is different; so make sure to consult your insurance carrier to learn how much they cost, how much they cover, etc.
What do dental insurance plans cover?
Insurance providers include dental procedures in three fundamental categories:
- Preventative – examinations, routine cleanings, x-rays, etc.
- Basic/Restorative – cavity fillings, tooth extractions, root canal therapy, etc.
- Major – crowns, veneers, bridges, surgical extractions, dental implants, etc.
What are Premiums, Deductibles, and Maximums?
- Premiums – Yearly/monthly cost of your dental insurance.
- Deductibles – Annual cost required before insurance kicks in to cover any dental work. After you pay your deductible, your coverage includes a percentage of the cost of your dental care.
- Maximums – The maximum cost that your insurance will pay. You are held responsible for any expenses exceeding this number.
Why are you not on my plan?
We can not provide the Dental Arts quality of care based on what some insurance plans pay.
Why do I have to pay anything?
No insurance plan covers Dental Treatment at 100%.
When do benefits renew?
Your benefits are typically determined annually on a fiscal or calendar year.
Note: Any coverage you do not use within the year will not carry over to the following year.
If you have specific questions about your dental insurance, please contact your insurance provider directly.
You can be sure that we will maximize your insurance benefits.
We hope this FAQ will help you navigate the world of dental insurance. If you would like to get more information on dentistry, dental hygiene, orthodontics or how Dental Arts can help you get the results you want for your oral health, please contact us.
Dental Arts is a full-service general dentistry and orthodontic practice for the entire family. For more than three decades, we have been providing the highest quality dental and orthodontic care available to the residents of New Orleans. Explore the Dental Arts difference today.
