{"id":255,"date":"2022-10-13T19:06:00","date_gmt":"2022-10-13T19:06:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oakridgedentalsanramon.com\/blog\/?p=255"},"modified":"2022-11-04T19:06:52","modified_gmt":"2022-11-04T19:06:52","slug":"a-guide-to-understanding-dental-insurance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.oakridgedentalsanramon.com\/blog\/a-guide-to-understanding-dental-insurance\/","title":{"rendered":"A Quick Guide to Understanding Dental Insurance Coverage"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\"Dental<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Dental insurance<\/a> is a monthly investment designed to make caring for your smile more affordable. Despite this, many patients end up leaving valuable dollars on the table at the end of each year simply because they aren\u2019t familiar with their benefits or sure of how to maximize their coverage. If you\u2019re in the same position, don\u2019t worry \u2013 here is a quick guide to help!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

First, Dental Insurance Is Different than Medical Insurance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Many patients assume that medical and dental insurance are similar. While there are certainly some parallels, there is one noteworthy difference: dental plans are centered around prevention. As a result, the large majority of providers cover two dental checkups and cleanings annually. So, if you aren\u2019t sure how to maximize your benefits, one of the best things to do is start with the basics, like visiting your dentist twice a year!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Quick Break Down of the 100-80-50 Structure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

On your dental plan, you may see the sequence 100-80-50. In short, this is the basic coverage structure that many providers use to make understanding and utilizing your benefits easy. The \u201c100\u201d refers to 100% of essential preventive care being covered, like your routine checkups. From there, 80% of basic procedures, like fillings, are covered, and 50% of major treatments, such as dental crowns. It\u2019s important to note, however, that there are sometimes waiting periods, annual deductibles, yearly maximums, and other things that need to be considered as well. So, don\u2019t hesitate to reach out to your provider or talk directly with your dental team about the fine print on your plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why You Should Visit Your Dentist Before the End of the Year<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While dental plans aren\u2019t always the same from patient to patient, many of them reset on January 1st<\/sup>. As a result, there are only a few weeks left to utilize any available benefits you have! So, whether you\u2019re struggling with a toothache or it\u2019s been more than six months since your last visit, don\u2019t hesitate to get in touch with your dental team. From there, they can learn more about your dental needs and determine how to utilize your remaining coverage to benefit your smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About the Author<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Rashpal Deol<\/a>\u2019s 35+ year career began in India, where he obtained a Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Master of Dental Surgery in Periodontics and Oral Medicine, and Doctor of Dental Science. Throughout his career, he\u2019s continued to pursue advanced training through the University of Southern California School of Dentistry and active memberships with professional organizations, like SPEAR Education. As a result, patients at Oak Ridge Dental can rest assured their smiles are in the best hands. If you have a question about dental insurance or would like to schedule an appointment, don\u2019t hesitate to visit our website<\/a> or call (925) 735-6190<\/strong>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Dental insurance is a monthly investment designed to make caring for your smile more affordable. Despite this, many patients end up leaving valuable dollars on the table at the end of each year simply because they aren\u2019t familiar with their benefits or sure of how to maximize their coverage. If you\u2019re in the same position, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"\nA Quick Guide to Understanding Dental Insurance Coverage | Dr. Deol<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you having trouble understanding the fine print on your plan? 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