About 1 in 6 Americans will experience a dental emergency this year, whether it involves a toothache that keeps them up at night or an accident that results in a cracked or knocked-out tooth. In these situations, getting professional attention is essential for stopping the pain and preventing the problem from becoming worse. But, while a dentist will be more than happy to help, will your insurance do the same? How does dental insurance handle emergency dentistry? Will you be fully covered, or should you expect to pay for everything out of pocket?
Dental Insurance & Emergency Dentistry
While every dental insurance is different and provides unique benefits, fortunately, the vast majority of providers and plans offer at least some coverage for emergency dentistry. What might differ from policy to policy is what is placed under the emergency dentistry umbrella and how much they will pay for particular procedures.
Generally, most providers will cover an emergency exam and X-rays, and they likely will help pay for procedures like crowns, bridges, dentures, root canals, and extractions. However, that coverage may not extend to treatments that are considered to be cosmetic, like veneers, cosmetic bonding, and porcelain crowns. These may be recommended to recover your smile’s appearance after the structural damage has been repaired, but because many plans consider them to just be about aesthetics (and therefore “elective”), they probably won’t be covered. The same can be said for dental implants—many plans will partially cover a denture or bridge because they are relatively cheaper (at least in the short term).
How to Get the Most Out of Your Dental Insurance
Of course, if you’re hoping to maximize the dental insurance you pay for every month, the most effective way is to keep up with your regular checkups and cleanings. Most plans pay for 100% of these procedures, and the added benefit is that they allow your dentist to find and fix small problems before they turn into emergencies.
What If My Dental Insurance Isn’t Enough?
If you’re not able to afford the emergency dentistry you need because you don’t have insurance or your insurance isn’t enough to offset the out-of-pocket costs, don’t worry. Many practices offer low-to-no-interest financing options that allow patients to pay for treatment over time in smaller installments. That way, they can get what they need quickly without causing a financial burden.
Regardless of your dental insurance, it’s always best to see a dentist right away if you even think you’re dealing with an emergency. Early intervention is the most reliable way to keep your teeth (and wallet) in the best shape so you don’t end up paying for it down the line!
About the Author
Dr. Ben Sutter is a highly experienced general and emergency dentist in Eugene, OR. He is often able to see emergency patients on the same day they request an appointment. If you are struggling with a severe toothache or another urgent dental problem, or you would simply like to learn more about our practice, give us a call at 541-484-1955.