Do you have dental insurance? If you do, you may not be aware that there are often waiting periods. This means that there is a certain amount of time that will need to pass before your insurance provider will cover a portion of your treatment cost. But why do these waiting periods exist? Keep reading to learn the answer to that question as well as how long dental insurance waiting periods usually last and what to do if you need treatment right away.
Why Dental Insurance Plans Have Waiting Periods
The short answer is that dental insurance plans want to encourage patients to seek out regular dental care throughout the year. This will discourage them from purchasing last-minute coverage for a major dental procedure just to drop the plan afterward.
Additionally, the hope is that people will have dental insurance even when they aren’t experiencing any oral health issues. This will keep the costs low for everyone involved. Preventing an oral health problem is also cheaper and easier than having it treated, so this is a win-win.
How Long Do Waiting Periods Usually Last?
The time frame for waiting periods can vary. Sometimes, they only last a month. Other times, they last an entire calendar year. Ultimately, it depends on the terms and conditions of your dental plan.
Even if your dental insurance waiting period is still ongoing, this doesn’t mean that you can’t visit your dentist during this time. Just make sure that you’re aware of the limitations of your coverage. Your dental team will be able to help you better understand your plan.
What If You Need Treatment During Your Waiting Period?
If you need to undergo a dental procedure but have a waiting period before it will be partially covered by insurance, speak with your dentist to learn about your options. Dental issues like cavities and gum disease worsen the longer you wait to have them treated, so it’s important to seek prompt treatment.
Many dental practices offer other financial options for those who won’t be receiving insurance coverage, such as dental financing. This allows patients to receive the care they need without having to cover all of the treatment costs upfront.
About the Practice
Dr. Rupeshwar Renkuntla is the skilled dentist who leads the team at Saginaw Dental. They truly love what they do, and it shows in the exceptional care they offer their Saginaw patients. If you have dental insurance and want to better understand how it works, they can help break down your benefits. They also offer dental financing for those who don’t have insurance or with plans that are presently in a waiting period. If you are ready to set up an appointment with Saginaw Dental or want to learn more about their services, you can visit their website or call their office at (817) 989-2832.