Dental emergencies are stressful enough on their own, so the last thing you want to worry about is the bill. Fortunately, most dental insurance plans provide some coverage for emergency visits. But what can you expect your benefits to cover, and what do you need to prepare for ahead of time? Keep reading to learn more about the most common benefits dental insurance provides for emergency care.
What’s Typically Covered
Most insurance providers cover at least one emergency exam per year, and many plans cover 50% or more of the cost for common emergency procedures. That said, coverage varies significantly from one plan to the next, and benefits can be confusing if you don’t know what to look for. So, it’s always worth looking over your plan or talking to your provider to confirm coverage.
Why the Cost Isn’t the Same for Everyone
Every dental emergency is different, so the cost of treating your case will be different depending on your needs. Two patients with similar toothaches might walk away with two very different treatment plans—one needing a filling, the other needing a root canal and crown.
So, your dentist won’t be able to give you an accurate cost estimate over the phone. Instead, they’ll need to see you, examine the injury, and determine the right course of treatment.
What If My Plan Doesn’t Cover Enough?
If your coverage falls short, most dental practices offer ways to help spread out the cost of your treatment. No one wants to see you suffer financially because you had a tooth knocked out. So, don’t let cost concerns keep you from seeking care. Untreated dental emergencies typically get worse and more expensive the longer they’re left alone.
Getting the Most from Your Benefits
If you’re not sure what your plan covers, your dental office can often help. They’ve had to navigate benefits for thousands of patients and often know the ins and outs of various plans better than most. They can find the best use of your benefits and incorporate them into a cost estimate before you leave, so you have a plan going forward.
Insurance won’t always cover every cost that comes up, but it’s often the best way to reduce the cost of dental emergencies. So, the next time you’re stressing over pain in your smile, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dental team. They can help you plan ahead so you can focus on getting better instead of your bank account.
About the Practice
At Devonshire Dental of Boston, our team offers same-day emergency appointments, so we can see you quickly. We’ll also help you look over your insurance benefits and file claims on your behalf to make your care as stress-free as possible. Call (617) 350-7474 if you’re experiencing a dental emergency, and our talented team will be there.