When it comes to understanding dental insurance, many patients often feel overwhelmed and/or frustrated with the process and terminology. Whether it is learning what kind of coverage is available, how benefits work, or attempting to understand how to reach one’s deductible, trying to grasp the fundamentals usually requires enlisting the help of a trusted professional. If you’re struggling to figure out what a deductible is and how you can reach it, keep reading.
What is a Deductible?
A deductible is the amount you are required to pay before your dental insurance company will begin to pay for available services.
The amount, which is typically quite low (i.e., $50), is set by your insurer and is based on a single calendar year, as this is the common timeframe for most dental plans. There are two types of annual deductibles as well – individual and family.
How Does a Deductible Work?
To save when visiting the dentist’s office, you’ll first need to make sure that you’ve paid your deductible. If, for instance, it is $50, that amount must be met before your dental insurance company will agree to pay 80% for a minor restorative service (i.e., dental filling).
By meeting your deductible, you can greatly reduce the amount of money that comes out of your pocket when visiting the dentist.
This is why your dental team strongly encourages you to use your dental insurance benefits before the end of the year. In doing so, you will avoid losing out on money that is provided to you by your insurer. This can include your annual maximum, which is the total amount your insurance company will pay in a single year for your oral healthcare needs.
So, if your dentist recommends that you undergo root canal treatment to address an infected tooth, you’ll want to make sure to take advantage of the savings once your deductible is paid. While it might seem like a good idea to put it off until the following year, you run the risk of not only developing more serious symptoms but also allowing your benefits to expire. This means that you’ll be required to pay your deductible once again after the start of the new year, as benefits do not typically roll over.
About Grand Dental – Channahon
Grand Dental – Channahon cares about patients receiving access to high-quality dental care that is affordable. This is why we are in-network with several dental insurance companies. Partnering with these plans allows us to offer services at a lower price, ensuring that each individual keeps more money in their pocket when visiting our office. If you are looking to save the next time you arrive for a checkup and cleaning or a more complex procedure, visit our website or call (815) 240-9009 to learn how we can help.