When you are going about your day and suddenly encounter a dental emergency, it can be quite alarming. In the moment, it can be difficult to keep calm and seek the help you need. Fortunately, emergency dentists specialize in unexpected dental treatments. If you have insurance, you may be wondering if it will cover your treatment costs. Keep reading to learn whether emergencies are covered by dental insurance as well as other ways to pay for treatment.
What Does Dental Insurance Cover?
Every dental insurance plan varies somewhat from the next. Even so, most of them follow a 100-80-50 structure when it comes to how much of the cost of dental care they cover, which means:
- Preventive care – This includes dental checkups, cleanings, and X-rays. Most insurance plans include 100% coverage of two preventive dental checkups per year.
- Basic treatments – This includes dental fillings and gum disease treatments. These procedures are usually covered at slightly less than 80%.
- Major procedures – This includes dental crowns and root canal therapy. Major procedures usually receive up to 50% coverage.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Emergencies?
Since no two dental emergencies are the same and the procedures they require will vary, the total cost of treatment will vary. For example, if a toothache requires no more than a simple filling, most of your visit will likely be covered by insurance. However, if you have a more severe toothache that requires root canal therapy, you may only receive around 50% coverage.
How to Save Money on Dental Emergencies
Even if you’re worried that the cost of a dental emergency is going to be high, you should never let this prevent you from receiving the care you need. The longer you wait, the worse the issue will get and the more expensive treatment will become.
For those who don’t have dental insurance or need payment flexibility, many dentists offer alternatives. One example of this is dental financing. This allows patients to split the cost of treatment into payments so they don’t have to pay for the whole thing upfront.
Another way to save on emergency dentistry is by being proactive. Be sure to brush your teeth twice per day for two minutes and floss every night to prevent cavities and gum disease. Additionally, avoid bad oral habits like smoking, drinking excessively, using your teeth as tools, and consuming too many sweet, starchy, and acidic foods and drinks. Additionally, wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports like football or hockey.
About the Practice
Nexus Dental of Lewisville offers patients in the DFW area a range of treatment options. This includes emergency procedures for when the unexpected happens. They can also work with you to make treatment more affordable so you can receive the care you need without being concerned about breaking the bank. Call Nexus Dental of Lewisville at (972) 436-4242 or visit their website to learn more about dental emergencies or to set up an appointment today.