Dental insurance is different from most other insurances and some people may be frustrated and put off proper maintenance of their teeth and gums because they may worry that it could get too expensive. Proper dental care is important for the health of your teeth, gums, and your entire body. A healthy mouth is important to having a healthy body. If teeth are not properly cared for, bacteria and plaque build-up can get into your bloodline and affect the overall health of your body. This article is meant to help you understand dental insurance so you can figure out what coverage you have or can get for you and your family. The following are some things to consider as you try to maintain healthy teeth and gums…

Understanding Dental Insurance

Individual will pay premiums to the insurance company and the insurance company will then pay a certain amount towards dental coverage. Sometimes it’s a percentage and sometimes it’s a flat amount for certain procedures. Here are some of the different types of dental insurance plans that you can purchase.

PPO Dental Insurance

This is a very common type of dental insurance and stands for Preferred Provider Organization (PPO). This insurance will give you access to a network of dentists that contract with this insurance company and as long as you go to a provider in that network, you will get a substantial discount on the services. If the provider is in the network, you will also get a larger percentage of your bill paid by the insurance company.  You may be able to go outside the network but the services will cost more and the percentages the insurance company will pay will be much lower.

DHMO Dental Insurance

Another popular form of dental insurance is Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO). You will also use a network of providers when you use this type of insurance.  Generally smaller services and maintenance are usually 100% covered expenses. However, more extensive services will require you to pay a co-pay or coinsurance.

Discount Dental Plans

With discount dental plans, you will contract with a network of providers who will give you a discount on procedures because you pay for the discount plan. Most times you will have to pay a certain amount in cash to the dentist at the time the services are rendered.

Need help in understanding your dental insurance? If you are confused and don’t understand anything on your plan, you can always talk to us!



About Tri-State Family Dentistry
