Dental insurance can be an invaluable tool in helping prevent or treat major medical procedures in the future. Regular visits with your dentist allow early diagnosis of issues that could cost more in the future, saving both money and effort in the process.
Preventive care includes bi-annual cleanings, oral evaluations, and regular X-rays, while basic treatment may include fillings, extractions, and root canals. Many plans offer different levels of coverage. Preventive measures typically consist of bi-annual professional cleanings and evaluations along with routine X-rays, while basic treatment could include fillings, extractions, and root canals.
1. Routine Cleanings
Routine dental cleanings are an integral component of preventive dental care, helping keep your smile in optimal health by identifying any problems early. A dentist or hygienist performs routine cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be reached with brushing and flossing alone.
Many dental insurance plans prioritize preventive care by covering services at 100% with no or low deductibles or copays, plus no annual maximums or waiting periods.
When selecting a dental insurance plan, be sure that your preferred dentist is included in its network and compare annual coverage limits and key features to get maximum value from your policy. Also consider opting for plans with higher annual coverage limits to lower monthly premiums.
2. Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to cavities and decay while also inhibiting bacteria growth that causes gum disease and tooth loss. Daily exposure through fluoridated water, toothpaste, and supplements should suffice for most individuals; those at greater risk for tooth decay could benefit from professional fluoride treatments, which are typically covered by dental insurance plans.
Fluoride treatments are quick and painless, usually applying a gel or varnish directly onto your teeth. Be sure to check your policy’s renewal date to make sure unused benefits do not expire; funds from flexible spending or health savings accounts could help cover these costs.
3. X-Rays
X-rays (or radiographs) provide internal images of the teeth and jaw, enabling dental teams to detect issues not visible during a visual examination. Most dental insurance plans cover bitewing X-rays annually, while panoramic ones should be done every 2-5 years.
Costs associated with X-rays may differ greatly between regions and clinics, as costs for living expenses and overhead expenses tend to impact them directly. Dental insurance policies usually offer fixed fees for certain x-ray types – those covered under employee-sponsored coverage should refer to their policy booklet or benefits document for details regarding coverage.
4. Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screenings should be an integral component of your dental care routine. Your dentist will use their fingers to palpate (feel) around your mouth, neck, and jaw for any lumps or sores and may use toluidine blue dye, which turns healthy tissue dark, allowing them to detect any areas that might be abnormal.
When your dentist suspects something may be cancerous, they may take a small sample for further evaluation (called cytology). This typically involves brushing a sticky substance onto the area in question and sending it off for lab analysis; depending on your dental insurance plan, these tests may even be fully covered.
5. Oral Pathology Reports
Oral pathology is the study of diseases and abnormalities of your mouth’s teeth, gums, bones, glands, and skin. Oral pathologists typically undergo 37 months of advanced education in this field before becoming experts in it.
Biopsies and tissue sample examinations can help detect potential sources of discomfort, such as cysts, ulcers, infections, or congenital diseases, and provide useful data in creating an effective treatment plan for each case.
Studies have established a connection between oral evaluation and preventive care prior to organ transplantation, such as screening services provided prior to organ transplantation, and improved results – such as decreased mortality and infection risks during the procedure – and subsequent results of organ transplantation surgery. This evidence supports Medicare coverage of preradiation dental services.
6. Oral Cancer Treatment
Oral cancer is an aggressive form of oral infection that should be detected and treated early with regular dental exams. Certain dental insurance plans offer coverage for screening exams for oral cancer; should your dentist notice any telltale signs (like persistent sore throat or hoarseness, red or white patches in the mouth or neck, or an ulcer inside a cheek), they will refer you to a specialist for further care.
Utilizing dentists within your dental plan’s network typically results in lower costs; many plans include deductible and copayment amounts that you can compare when comparing Marketplace health plans by entering income and household details.
7. Periodontal Disease Treatment
Periodontal disease, or inflammation and infection of your gums, can cause irreparable damage to both teeth and gums, as well as contribute to other health concerns. Thankfully, however, it’s usually preventable through good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.
Periodontitis can be identified by its symptoms: soft, red, or swollen gums that bleed easily. Your teeth may also feel looser or longer than usual, and your x-rays may reveal bone degeneration.
Scaling and root planing or laser dentistry with LANAP (Laser Advanced Periodontal Therapy) may be used to address this condition, with most insurance plans covering these treatments as soon as your annual deductible has been met. After which they may require you to pay an additional copayment.
8. Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer screenings are performed during routine dental appointments. Your dentist will conduct a complete oral cancer checkup that includes looking for changes in color or texture, sores that don’t heal, and lumps that might not be obvious.
If a dentist notices anything suspect, they may suggest additional tests like exfoliative cytology and brush biopsy, both typically covered by dental insurance under exam codes.
Dental insurance policies generally cover preventive and basic procedures up to an annual maximum dollar limit, with most policies rolling over any unused maximum into the following year. Deductibles still apply; this amount represents what you must pay towards any service before insurance starts covering it.
