US Dental Insurance, USA Dental Insurance

By: EconomyWatch   Date: 26 May 2010

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US dental insurance is the financial coverage for all the dental needs of an individual.It is a necessity in today’s world and can save you up to thousands of dollars. Research also shows that USA dental insurance policy holders are more likely to visit their dentist regularly than those who do not have such insurance cover.

What Does a US Dental Insurance Plan Cover?

Routine and preventive care: These include

  • periodic checkups, cleanings, x-rays
  • fillings
  • fluoride and sealant applications
  • root canal treatments
  • gum care

Emergency care: This includes

  • cracked or broken tooth repair or extraction
  • treatment following a facial injury involving the teeth

Complex care: This includes dentures, bridges or orthodontia.

Many dental plans cover about half the cost of these types of procedures.

US Dental Insurance: Some Facts

The most recent data (2007) from the National Association of Dental Plans shows that 57% of the population in the United States has dental benefit coverage. Around 97% of the policyholders get insurance through their employer or through individual insurance policies, separate from their health insurance plan. The most common types of dental insurance plans are the Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO) or Dental Health Maintenance Organizations (DHMO), which come under the managed care program.

Types of US Dental Insurance Plans

  • Indemnity/Usual, Customary and Reasonable (UCR) programs: These allow the patient to go to the dentist of his/her choice. These plans generally pay a portion of the dentist's fee or a set dollar amount, whichever is less. The rest of the amount is paid by the individual.
  • DHMO (Health management organizations)/Capitation Programs: These are the least expensive of the dental plans. Agreed services are provided by dentists at no cost. Contracted dentists are paid directly by the insurance company for each individual, regardless of the usage of the covered services.
  • PPO (Preferred Provider Organizations): Individuals can go to their choice of dentist from a network of dental providers who have agreed by contract to work for reduced rates.

Many dentists offer their own financing arrangements to help patients pay for the treatment.

Cost Coverage in US Dental Insurance Plans

These plans typically cover a maximum of $1,000-$1,500 of dental services per year. They cover routine cleanings and one or two fillings. Even if the annual maximum is exceeded, the dentist will charge lesser for such procedures.

Further Resources

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