When it comes to dental emergencies, many people are unsure if their insurance will cover the cost. Fortunately, many dental plans include provisions for urgent care or after-hours care. However, it is important to keep in mind that you may still owe a deductible, a co-pay, or a large percentage of the cost of emergency treatment. Most dental benefits cover emergency care provided by dentists or emergency dental clinics.
Deductibles, annual maximums, and copays should remain the same as those for standard dental care. Employees can often access their dentist's care even when emergencies occur outside of regular office hours. Many dentists offer numbers after hours, so it is important to encourage employees to make a plan at their next appointment for emergency care and to ask the dentist what number they should call. Emergency care provided by non-network dentists may not be covered under the plan, such as the DHMO, which is another good reason to remind your employees to check their coverage.
When looking for dental insurance, it is essential to make sure the patient knows exactly what the plan covers and what it doesn't. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care, such as cleaning and x-rays. Some may even cover a higher percentage of emergencies. Just remember that the patient should do the research; yes, dental insurance is expensive.
However, the policyholder will be happy to have it in case an emergency arises. In addition to your insurance plan, your dentist may offer additional financing options to help pay for emergency care. When you have a medical emergency, the idea of paying for emergency dental treatment with or without dental insurance can sometimes dissuade you from going to the dentist. It really depends on what the dentist says about the policy holder; they can determine if it's a dental emergency or not.
Outside of normal business hours, other care options for a dental emergency include an urgent care center or an emergency room for serious oral injuries. On the other hand, a filling that has fallen out, a small tooth that has chipped, or a broken wire in orthodontic appliances can all be factors that could take until the dentist has an appointment; but always talk to your dentist for instructions on what steps to take. Review your dental insurance plan to see how dental emergencies are covered and how much you and your plan can pay for emergency dental services.
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