It happened when you least expected it. You were watching a scary movie when all of a sudden, you felt a sharp pain after biting down on an unpopped popcorn kernel. As you may know, the first thing you should do in this situation is contact your emergency dentist and make an appointment. However, you may be hesitant to schedule that visit if you’re worried about the cost. After all, will dental insurance in Spring House even cover urgent dental care? Continue reading to find out!
Types of Dental Insurance Plans
First things first, you need to consider the type of dental insurance plan you have to better understand what you can expect to pay should a dental emergency arise. Let’s take a closer look at the three most common types:
- Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) – This plan grants you the option to visit a dentist both in and out of your provider’s network. However, you’ll have a lower out-of-pocket cost if you decide to stick with an in-network practice.
- Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO) – With this option, you’ll be required to visit a dentist that your provider has approved of. You may not be eligible for coverage if you seek care outside of the approved list.
- Discount Dental Plans – These programs provide you with a pre-negotiated rate that you can expect to pay by receiving dental care from a select group of dental practices. While none of your services will be covered, you’ll get a discount on the care you receive.
Will Dental Insurance Cover Emergency Dental Care?
A portion of your emergency visit may be covered if you have a PPO or DHMO plan with available benefits. Of course, the amount you’ll be expected to pay will vary depending on the type of treatment you need. While the replacement for a knocked-out tooth may not be covered, diagnostic care like X-rays might be. If you need a complex treatment like root canal therapy, you may be responsible for paying a portion of the cost while your dental insurance may only cover 50% of the restoration needed for the tooth in question.
How Can Your Dentist Help?
No one wants to worry about their budget while experiencing a dental emergency. Fortunately, your dental team will happily explain your financing options during your appointment to help you find a solution that works best for your needs. They’ll review the details of your dental insurance policy to figure out how to effectively maximize your benefits. Additionally, you can take advantage of options like an in-house membership plan and CareCredit financing to make your emergency care more affordable.
If you’re not sure what your dental insurance covers, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for assistance. They’ll help you understand every detail to ensure you get the most out of your coverage!
About the Practice
At NeoSmile Dental Care, we strive to deliver comfortable and comprehensive dental services in one convenient location. Our team will always go above and beyond to ensure your family maintains optimal oral health. If you’re wondering whether or not your dental insurance will cover an emergency visit, feel free to ask an experienced team member. You can reach us via our website or call (215) 643-5220.