Going through a dental emergency can be stressful enough. You’re already in pain, and to top it off, you’re worrying about how much your treatment will cost and whether your dental insurance will foot the bill. Many people aren’t actually aware of the extent to which their dental insurance will pay for their care. To make things a little bit easier, an emergency dentist in Springfield discusses whether your insurance will cover dental emergencies, and how to prevent these situations in the first place.
What Does Dental Insurance Cover?
The majority of dental insurance plans follow a 100-80-50 structure when determining coverage. This means that:
- Preventive care, such as teeth cleanings and dental x-rays, are often covered at 100%.
- Basic procedures, including fillings, are covered at a slighter lower percentage of about 80%.
- Major restorative procedures, like root canals, are typically only covered up to 50%.
Keep in mind that this is just a basic guideline and that the degree to which your treatment will be covered differs for every individual plan.
Will Your Dental Emergency Be Covered?
There is no definitive answer to this question. Dental emergencies, and the types of procedures needed to treat them, can vary wildly. For example, if all you need you heal your toothache is a filling, the majority of the cost will likely be covered. On the other hand, if you require a more significant procedure, like a tooth extraction, your insurance may only pay for half or less of the cost.
However, you should never let the potential cost of treatment keep you from seeing your dentist for emergency care. Oral health problems worsen the longer you ignore them. What starts out as a minor cavity that only needs a filling could spiral into a severely damaged tooth that needs to be removed. Not only does a filling cost less than an extraction, but you also save money on replacing that tooth. It’s best to contact your dentist right after the emergency strikes.
An Easy Way to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While dental emergencies are unpredictable, you can minimize your chances of developing one with regular preventive care. Most dental insurance plans cover two checkups and cleanings a year. At these appointments, your dentist can examine your mouth to identify and treat early warning signs of problems like infections before they turn into full-blown emergencies. Additionally, the hygienist can remove built-up plaque that contributes to gum disease and cavities. Routine dental visits dramatically reduce your chances of requiring potentially costly emergency care later on.
Ultimately, there’s no way to know whether your dental insurance will cover your emergency care without having your dentist evaluate the situation. One thing is for sure, though: seeking treatment for your emergency as soon as possible is better for your health and your wallet!
About the Author
Dr. Eric L. Tolliver is a dentist in Springfield, MO who obtained his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the dental school at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. He was then accepted into a residency program for Advanced Education in General Dentistry, where he underwent advanced training in various areas, including prosthetic restorations and implant dentistry. His practice treats emergency patients right away and will happily handle your insurance paperwork for you. If you have a dental emergency, contact Dr. Tolliver’s office for treatment by calling (417) 887-5757.