Dr. Douglas Ng, a trusted San Luis Obispo dentist, helps patients understand dental insurance coverage. Insurance benefits can be confusing. Most plans cover preventive care at 80-100%. This coverage helps patients save money on dental health.
Basic Insurance Coverage
Most dental plans cover two cleanings per year. They include regular examinations. Annual X-rays are part of preventive care. Insurance typically pays for fluoride treatments. Basic preventive supplies are often included. Some plans offer additional screenings at no cost.
Cost Breakdown
A routine cleaning costs $75-200 without insurance. Cavity fillings range from $150-400. Root canals can cost $700-1,500. Crowns often exceed $800. With insurance, patients pay $0-40 for cleanings. X-rays cost $0-30. Regular exams range from $0-25.
Insurance Maximums
Plans set yearly maximums between $1,000-2,000. Preventive care often bypasses deductibles. This saves maximum benefits for unexpected needs. Coverage starts immediately for preventive services. No referrals are needed for routine care.
Making Insurance Work
Schedule appointments early in the year. Keep regular preventive visits. Check your coverage details. Ask about service discounts. Monitor remaining benefits. Request coverage verification before procedures.
Prevention Saves Money
Regular care prevents expensive treatments. Early detection reduces costs. Routine visits catch problems early. Prevention helps avoid emergency expenses. Insurance benefits cover most preventive costs.
Emergency Care Costs
Emergency services cost more than routine care. After-hours visits have extra fees. Insurance may limit emergency coverage. Same-day care affects yearly maximums. Prevention reduces emergency risks.
Additional Benefits
Many plans cover dental sealants. Periodontal screenings are included. Cancer screenings have coverage. Treatment planning has no cost. Basic supplies are often covered.
Dr. Ng, the family dentist in San Luis Obispo, recommends reviewing your insurance benefits. Understanding coverage helps save money. Call today to create a preventive care plan. Smart use of insurance benefits supports long-term oral health.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
