An estimated 74 million Americans have no dental insurance coverage, and an estimated 6 million Americans lost access to their dental insurance during the pandemic. Simply, the fact remains that many Americans cannot afford to go to the dentist. Unfortunately, delaying your dental health needs can lead to significant pain, exacerbated health problems, and simple daily tasks (such as eating) can become a struggle.
Dentistry is essential health care. Furthermore, regular dental care is imperative to your oral health and has long been established as an integral part of overall wellness. Growing evidence suggests that the status of your teeth and gums are connected to your overall health.
Some have the option to acquire conventional dental insurance via an employer or an alternative purchasing plan through an independent provider. However, conventional insurance plans have their limitations. Luckily, our team at Lakewood Dental Group offers an in-house Dental Clinic Membership Plan to alleviate some financial stress, potentially saving you money on unnecessary out-of-pocket costs and pricy premiums.
In this blog, we dive in and take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of our Dental Clinic Membership Plan and conventional dental insurance in the hopes that you can affordably achieve a healthy, bright, and beautiful smile. Still, please get in touch with our East Dallas dental clinic if you have any questions regarding our in-house Dental Clinic Membership Plan, the conventional insurances that we gladly accept, or other financing options (such as third-party lenders).
Preventive Dentistry Coverage
The purpose of preventive dentistry visits is to monitor the condition of your teeth and gums. Furthermore, your dentist will look for signs of life-threatening diseases (such as oral cancer) and thoroughly clean your teeth, gums, and the spaces in-between. Also, general dentists offer advice and next steps on optimal oral hygiene practices at preventive appointments.
As a baseline, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends regular, preventive dental visits at least once or twice a year. However, this recommendation is individualized, and some patients with certain health conditions (such as gum disease) should visit more often.
The good news is that Lakewood Dental Group’s Dental Clinic Membership Plan and conventional dental insurance plans cover preventive services. Generally, the cost of x-rays, exams, and regular cleanings are included in preventive dentistry coverage. Ask our Lakewood Dental Group crew for more details.
Cosmetic Dentistry Coverage
Once upon a time, dentistry was mainly used to treat dental problems (such as tooth decay). Today, dentists still prioritize oral health, but the popularity of cosmetic dentistry is on the rise. Furthermore, experts predict that the cosmetic dentistry market will flourish to a hefty $32.73 billion industry by 2026. So, if you want a whiter, straighter, or all-around more aesthetically pleasing smile, cosmetic dentistry could benefit you.
Unfortunately, conventional dental insurance typically does not cover cosmetic dentistry. Some dental insurances cover some costs associated with orthodontic treatment for minors, but that’s generally the extent of cosmetic dentistry coverage. The consensus of most insurance companies is that cosmetic dentistry is not medically necessary. Thus, cosmetic dentistry shouldn’t be covered.
Cosmetic dentistry was only something that the rich and famous could realistically afford at one point in time. To combat this issue, Lakewood Dental Group offers 15% off minor and major treatments, including veneers and other cosmetic dentistry services.
Geographic Accessibility
Choosing a provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make about your dental health care. Conventional dental insurances require that you visit “in-network” providers. Sadly, you might be shocked at your bill when you go to an out-of-network provider with dental insurance. Some health plans only offer to pay part of your out-of-network care, while others offer no out-of-network coverage at all. Some even tack on out-of-network fees. This could leave you with medical bills that are more expensive than expected and even more than your copay.
Deciding between in-network and out-of-network providers can get complicated. To help you reach your oral health goals on a budget, Lakewood Dental Group accepts most PPO dental insurances, including (but not limited to):
- Aetna
- Cigna
- Delta Dental
- MetLife
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
While it’s true that you’re limited to one location with our Dental Clinic Membership Plan, we are a comprehensive family dentistry that serves a wide range of needs for patients aged 13 and up. Whether you need root canal therapy, fully guided dental implant surgery, Invisalign®, or other aspects of dentistry, we are equipped to handle what you need under one roof at our Mockingbird Lane dental clinic.
Insurance Premiums, Plan Maximums, and Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Conventional insurance plans consist of insurance premiums and maximums. Generally, an insurance premium is the amount of money a business or individual pays for an insurance policy. Annual maximums are the maximum amount you will pay toward your care during any one year—usually between $1,000 and $2,000.
No one wants to max out their benefits, and the National Association of Dental Plans estimates that less than 3% of people with a PPO dental plan reach or exceed their plan’s annual maximum. Plus, some corporations offer flexible spending accounts, which help reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
These are great options for people who have access to it, but what about those who don’t? Consider our in-house dental plan for discounted dentistry rates for those who still need affordable dental care.
Ask About Our Dental Clinic Membership Plan and Dental Insurance Support Services
What’s our verdict? Although both types of dental financing have advantages and disadvantages, your finances should not stop you from getting the quality of care you deserve. Lakewood Dental Group takes pride in supporting the Dallas community by receiving affordable dental care, whether with our in-house Dental Clinic Membership Plan, conventional dental insurance, and more. Reach out to our East Dallas dental clinic by calling 214-827-1885 or messaging us online.
