Top 5 Misconceptions about Dental Insurance

Dental insurance plans can often be very confusing to new patients. Patients often have various misconceptions about their dental insurance and what’s covered. Understanding the ins and outs of dental insurance can be a lot easier with the right resources.

Dental insurance Tryon Family Dentistry

Dental Insurance Misconceptions

Dental insurance is unlike other insurance, as it is a benefit that mitigates the risk of loss versus eliminating it like different types of insurance. Always keep in mind that dental insurance plans are benefit plans that offer discounts on some things.

A typical dental insurance plan will cover preventative dental services, such as dental cleanings, exams, and x-rays but will only discount other services dentists offer. Once a patient reaches their yearly maximum, the discount disappears, and patients must pay out of pocket. Some dentists get around this by providing insurance without annual maximums.

So, what misconceptions can we lay to rest about dental insurance?

• Dental insurance is actually insurance. No, it is not insurance. As discussed, it’s a benefits system that helps with discounts on some services while covering minimal ones. A dentist can help determine what procedures are covered by a patient’s insurance and plan their dental care visits accordingly to save time and money. This level of care benefits patients who have low yearly maximums or have already met their maximum.

• Dental insurance covers any treatment a patient needs. Unfortunately, dental insurance will not cover treatments for pre-existing conditions. While some companies make exceptions for dental necessities, it’s often rare for this to happen. Many providers require a six-month premium before covering any significant dental.

• Dental insurance keeps up with inflation prices. If dental insurance kept up with the price of inflation, annual limits would require raising from $1,000-$1,500 to $5,000-$5,500 to cover costs of materials, precious metals, labor costs, laboratory fees, and other costs associated with dental procedures.

• Dentists require dental insurance to see a patient. Not all dentists are the same, but many dental practices work hard to provide the dental care a patient needs without relying on restrictive dental insurance plans. Insurance is not a requirement to see a dentist, but insurance plans force dentists to perform procedures they may not recommend as the best option simply due to cost and coverage.

• Patients are required to see an in-network / preferred provider. Many insurance companies try to force their clients into seeing an in-network dental practice. This “rule” is not a requirement, and many dentists will bill various insurance companies. Dental offices like Tryon Family Dentistry work with their patients regardless of the patient’s insurance coverage.

Seek the Dental Care You Need

Don’t let dental insurance misconceptions prevent you from seeking the dental care you need. The longer an issue is allowed to fester, the worse off your dental health can get. If a dental problem like an abscess is left untreated, it can significantly impact a patient’s overall health. Give Tryon Family Dentistry in Raleigh or Zebulon a quick call and set an appointment with us. We can help prolong your dental health, improve dental hygiene, and prevent your smile from fading. For more information, contact us.

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“I just moved to the area and needed to find a new dentist. After looking through tons of reviews, I settled on this dentist, and after my visit decided that this place will be my new go-to! The doctor was fantastic. Was so thorough, took the time to explain to me what was going on with my teeth, always checking to make sure that I was doing okay, and was so friendly and caring. I would recommend them to anyone. I’ll be back.”
- Ashley K.
★★★★★
“Love this place – I can’t recommend Tryon Family Dentistry enough! I’ve been coming to them for about 3 years and I’ve never even considered going anywhere else. The office is nice and the people are great.”
- Molly Katolas
★★★★★
“I have been going to Tryon Family Denistry for the past six years and I absolutely love it. The staff are always friendly and courteous. They engage in conversation so as to take your mind off what they are doing. Dr. Leo is awesome as well and has great beside manners. If you are looking for a great dentist office then look no further.”
- Kiawana Fulford
★★★★★
“My dental assistant is Gloria, who is always super friendly, masterfully efficient and skilled, and amazing at answering all of my questions and anticipating anything out of the ordinary that Dr. Leo may need for his evaluation. Dr. Leo is my fabulous dentist who is also very friendly, skilled and efficient, takes whatever time is needed for my evaluation and questions, and provides honest assessment. He runs a high caliber business that has been consistently pleasant, remains way ahead of the technology, and the entire office is always extremely clean and bright. Highest regards and recommendations!”
- Jill Beavin
★★★★★
“Thanks to our awesome patient Cheryl for taking the time to talk about us and our services. We are so glad to have you as a patient!”
- Cheryl
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“Had another wonderful experience at Tryon Family Dentistry today! I felt safe during this pandemic due to the constant cleaning/disinfecting I observed. Everyone there goes out of their way to ensure your comfort and address any/all questions you may have.”
- Leslie Meilhon
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