Open Enrollment Tips for Dental Insurance
With open enrollment around the corner, there are looming questions about which dental plans to choose.
Dental insurance works differently than medical insurance. When it comes to picking a dental plan, topics like monthly premiums, deductibles, maximums and coverage amounts are without a doubt discussed.
There are several ways to find coverage: Some employers provide insurance, however if you are looking for a dental plan on your own it may seem like a daunting task even when going through an insurance broker.
Oftentimes what we see with some patients who went to find an insurance plan without any prior knowledge, is that they picked a plan that was not right for them. Either the insurance did not cover much on their first year of coverage, or their insurance did not allow them to go to the dentist of their choice.
Here are a few tips to better equip yourself when looking for a dental insurance:
PPO or HMO?
When it comes to choosing a plan, it is important to know what kind of plan fits your needs. PPO (preferred provider organization) are the most common. It gives the patient the flexibility to choose their provider, and offers a large selection of in-network providers. PPO plans give the opportunity for patients to choose an out-of-network provider as well. Our office is contracted with an extensive list of PPO insurance plans. Feel free to check them out HERE.
HMO (health maintenance organization) is restricted to in-network only. This is the cheapest option, but it comes with its downsides. With some HMO plans, you would have to live in the area where the HMO is available. This plan is not as flexible as a PPO when it comes to choosing your dental provider. That is one important thing to consider before enrolling.
Know what your policy covers.
It is important to look at what your policy covers. If your goal is to finally get those fillings done that you’ve been putting off, then a preventive only plan might not be right for you. Some plans have waiting periods before being able to utilize your benefits. For example, some plans might have no waiting periods on exams and cleaning, but have waiting periods on fillings and major work like crowns. Talk to your dentist about your treatment plan, this will help you to become more informed on the kind of plan you are looking for.
Consider the Insurance Carrier Reputation
Find out what other customers are saying about the insurance plan and how long they’ve been in business.
If you are looking for dental insurance, it can seem like you don’t know where to start. Schedule a complete exam to help you narrow down the kind of plan you will be looking for once insurance enrollment opens.
Schedule Your Next Dental Appointment Today!
Contact our office today at (602) 675-0896. You can also request an appointment by filling out our easy-to-use appointment request form!
