If you are just now getting dental insurance after time away from the dental office, you are likely eager to get back on track with your routine visits and resolve any issues that you are struggling with. But what about the waiting period? Does this mean that you can’t use your benefits right away? Continue reading to learn more about dental insurance and how waiting periods work.
What Is a Dental Insurance Waiting Period?
Regarding dental insurance, the waiting period is the length of time before your full dental benefits begin. At this point, your plan might not cover certain dental services or procedures. Depending on which plan you have, the waiting period could last anywhere from a month to a year after you sign up for coverage. The treatments and procedures that are and aren’t covered during the waiting period vary from plan to plan. For example, many plans cover routine care during the waiting period, but not more complex procedures. Alternatively, some plans don’t have waiting periods.
What Is the Purpose of a Waiting Period?
The idea behind the waiting period is to keep the cost of insurance lower in the long run. If people buy dental insurance coverage only when they need major restorative treatments as an effort to save money, this drives up the overall cost of dental insurance for time. Waiting periods encourage people to seek regular dental treatment, improving their oral health and preventing the need for restorative procedures later on. If customers keep their dental insurance, even when their teeth are in good health, it keeps the cost of premiums and coverage lower for everyone.
Can I See My Dentist During the Waiting Period?
In most cases, dental insurance companies apply the waiting periods to major procedures. If you have a waiting period, it will be listed on your benefits summary in addition to the length of time before you receive full coverage. It should also include which specific procedures the waiting period applies to. If you need a dental procedure that isn’t covered during the waiting period, you will be responsible for the cost. However, if you have a dental checkup scheduled, the waiting period may not apply to it, so you should be able to attend that without issues. Just remember to double-check your plan ahead of time so you don’t run into any surprises.
Dental insurance is a valuable tool, but it can be confusing at first. If you have questions regarding your plan, reach out to your dental team. You will be back on track with your dental visits in just a matter of time!
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Dean earned his dental doctorate from the Medical University of South Carolina. Since then, he has been committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, he is a proud member of numerous professional organizations, including the Georgia Dental Association, American Dental Association, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Academy of General Dentistry. To learn more about dental insurance or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (770) 786-3915.