Four Things You Should Know About Insurance And Cosmetic Dentistry
Are you interested in cosmetic dentistry but afraid that your insurance won't cover it? Most people know that cosmetic dentistry isn't usually covered under an insurance plan, but there can be exceptions. Here are a few of the things that you can discuss with either your insurance carrier or your dentist.
1. Your Insurance May Cover Some Cosmetic Dentistry
If you have insurance through an employer, you might not be aware that some cosmetic services are already covered. Your employer can opt to include cosmetic dentistry riders if they choose to, and if you have a fairly comprehensive dental policy it might already be included. Some dental plans cover fairly inexpensive dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, while other dental plans will cover a small percentage of more expensive procedures like veneers.
2.Your "Cosmetic Dentistry" May Not Be Entirely Cosmetic
If you're looking into straightening your teeth, it may not be considered cosmetic -- this is especially true if it's necessary for the future of your oral health. This is generally governed under orthodontic procedures which are considered to be a separate coverage level. Make sure you ask your dentist clearly whether the procedure they are suggesting is entirely cosmetic. If it involves shifting your teeth in any way, it likely isn't.
3. You Can Add Cosmetic Dental Insurance
Are you thinking about getting dental work done in the next few years? You might want to add a cosmetic dental insurance policy now. You can add cosmetic coverage to your existing insurance policy, especially if you are already planning to get the procedures done. Just keep in mind that there might be a waiting period before the policy kicks into action before you get the maximum amount of coverage.
4. You Have Other Options In Addition to Insurance
If you really can't work with your insurance for your cosmetic dentistry needs, you can still often go through a medical credit line or through a dentist's payment plan. Most dentists have a financing specialist or financing office that will help you find the best ways to cover your costs.
If you want to make the process simpler for you, simply ask your cosmetic dentist which "codes" he would use for the procedure. You can then call your insurance carrier and ask them whether they cover those insurance codes under your policy. This can give you a far more definitive answer than trying to explain the work done. Contact a company like Charlottesville Dental Medicine at Forest Lakes for more information.