If you’ve recently purchased a new dental insurance policy, you may have a waiting period before you’re able to access all your benefits. Did you know you can still use your insurance during this time? Although some services may not be covered, you can visit your dentist for minimal out-of-pocket expenses during your waiting period. Here’s why some dental insurance will put a hold on some benefits and what coverage you can use during this time.
How Dental Insurance Works
Dental insurance focuses on prevention to stop common oral health issues from occurring in the first place. However, some of the expenses for common dental procedures are covered in case anything concerning occurs, like a cavity. Although every policy is unique, most plans include:
- 100% of Preventive Dental Services
- 80% of Basic Dental Work
- 50% of Major Dental Work
You can visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup for a co-payment. Preventive dental care is proven to stop oral health issues from occurring, like tooth decay and gum disease. However, if you require dental work, your insurance will pay some of the expenses after meeting your annual deductible until you reach your yearly limit. At the end of the calendar year, your dental coverage resets.
Understanding Dental Insurance Waiting Periods
Some dental insurance companies have a waiting period for new policyholders. Waiting periods are meant to prevent people from only purchasing dental insurance when they need dental work. Not everyone experiences waiting periods. They are most often put in place for people who have recently switched insurance companies. You can still use your coverage during this time, but not everything may be covered. Every situation differs, but here’s what benefits may be available during the wait:
- Preventive Dentistry: Many preventive services don’t have a waiting period. You can visit your dentist for cleanings and checkups with no delay.
- Basic Dental Work: You may have to wait 3-6 months before your insurance will cover basic dental work.
- Major Dental Work: Services considered major work by your dental insurance may have a waiting period of 6-12 months.
Your dental insurance may also waive the waiting period for certain situations. They may also still cover the cost of some procedures but at a much lower rate. Your dentist will work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize your coverage to lower the amount you will pay.
About Dr. Ivan Montijo
Dr. Montijo earned his dental degree at the University of Florida and has continued his training in various specialties, including dental implants, orthodontics, and sleep apnea therapy. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Montijo works with many dental insurance plans to keep a healthy smile affordable. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (407) 809-8815.
