Dental Crowns – Insurance Coverage

I have often wondered why dental insurance is a separate entity from other types of medical insurance… Last I checked, my teeth were still attached to my skull, and their potential to cause misery when not functioning properly is right up there with gallbladders and appendixes and the like.  Good dental care is critically important, and should be affordable and available for everyone.

Dental crowns, also called caps, are expensive, from several hundred to several thousand dollars, with insurance typically covering only part of the cost.  Dental insurance is the most commonly used to pay for major dental problems.  Dental crowns are also commonly referred to as tooth caps, teeth crowns.  Dental benefits plans can be categorized by the options offered for selecting a dentist.  Dental plans can be categorized into three types based on the compensation and treatment provided.  Dental insurance plans differ in the level of reimbursement offered for certain procedures and in annual dental spending caps.

Insurance plans vary, but in general most will not reimburse patients for a replacement until a crown is five years old.  Insurance only then covers up to a certain amount per year (e.  Insurance companies are still paying for bone grafts for bony defects around periodontally involved teeth.  Insurance companies also have all kinds of little rules and limitations, which most patients with very little dental knowledge wouldn’t even know to ask their insurance company.

Some typical features of these plans: High deductibles before coverage begins (well-designed plans don’t apply the deductible to preventive services) Probationary periods on certain procedures that last up to a year Annual dollar limit on benefits Chose your own dentist Your average monthly cost: $15 to $25 companies selling these plans are regulated by state insurance departments.  Dental insurance for family can significantly change the way teeth are improved.  Dental insurance for family can give you some more offers and freebies that no other plan can give.