I need to understand how dental insurance works. I have a dental insurance PPO plan through my job, but it could be better. I am considering removing it and getting just the medical. Why have insurance if you have to pay the dentist? I thought it would not cost me anything to see the dentist for any services, yet I just had to pay $100.00 for primary care.

Reply: Dental insurance can be a bit confusing, but I’m here to help you understand it better. It’s great that you have a dental insurance PPO plan through your job, but I understand that you’re considering removing it and getting just the medical. However, it’s important to note that dental insurance is designed to make dental care more affordable, not completely free. Just like medical insurance, dental insurance has a cost paid out by the insured. While it may seem like an additional expense, the cost of dental insurance is often less than the potential cost of dental procedures, making it a wise investment in your dental health. 

You may wonder why you should have dental insurance if you still have to pay the dentist for services. The truth is that dental insurance is meant to help you save money on dental care, not eliminate all costs. However, having dental insurance can still be worth the price, even for preventive care. Let me give you an example. 

Consider this scenario: you only require preventive care, which encompasses office visits, bite-wing X-rays, oral exams, and basic cleaning. Without insurance, these services can range from $200 to $400. However, most low-cost HMO plans range from $8 to $20 a month, and preventive care is typically free. This stark difference in cost highlights the significant savings dental insurance can provide, even for basic care. This should reassure you that dental insurance is a wise financial investment, even for routine check-ups. 

Moreover, dental insurance plays a crucial role in managing the costs of more extensive dental care services. For instance, if you require a root canal, dental implants, or orthodontic treatment, the expenses can escalate rapidly. In such situations, dental insurance acts as a safety net, helping you manage these unexpected costs and ensuring you can access the necessary care without financial strain. This knowledge should make you feel prepared for any unforeseen dental issues and secure in the knowledge that you’re covered. 

Therefore, while dental insurance may not cover all costs, it remains a valuable investment in your overall dental health and well-being. If you have any questions or concerns about your dental insurance plan, don’t hesitate to speak with your employer or insurance provider for more information. Remember, your dental insurance is not just about financial savings, but also about ensuring you can maintain your dental health and well-being in the long run.

If you have any queries related to dental insurance and are looking for a plan that fits your needs better than your current one, feel free to contact us. We are always here to help you out. You can visit our website, MedicareCard.com, for more information on our dental insurance plans. Additionally, you can also call us at 310-534-3444 for a personalized consultation. Our team of experts will be more than happy to assist you in finding the best plan that caters to your dental needs and budget. Dental insurance can sometimes be confusing, but we are here to guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision. So, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.