How Does a Dental Plan Work?

Dental Plans

Dental plans, also known as dental insurance, are policies which cover some or all of the cost of dental work for those who have the plan. A premium must be paid on a regular schedule. In addition to this, a deductible might be required (meaning that the plan holder would have to pay for dental work up to a certain amount, after which the plan would cover the cost). Depending on the plan that is chosen, some specific dental work may not be covered by the plan. Dental plans are often offered as an addition to standard medical insurance, though they can be purchased separately as well.

Basic Coverage

Basic coverage for most dental plans includes the cost of dental checkups, having teeth cleaned, x-rays, and a number of other common dental procedures. Many plans include the filling of cavities in their coverage as well. A number of dental plans also cover the cost of office visits, or reduce the amount that the plan holder has to pay for the visit. The amount of coverage offered by dental plan and the deductible associated with the plan often depends on the premium amount that is paid.

Optional Coverage

In addition to the basic coverage which is offered, many dental plans have a secondary set of coverage items which can be added for an additional fee. These optional items include a number of more complex procedures such as braces, root canals, and even oral surgery and dental implants. Plans which add these optional coverage items will have a higher premium, but may offer a reduced deductible or greater discounts on office visits in order to help justify this additional cost.