Whether you’ve fallen while on a hike with friends or cannot handle the throbbing toothache that continues to worsen each day, a dental emergency can be surprising. As a result, you may find yourself not financially capable of seeing a professional for what could be expensive treatment. Although it might seem like the best option – to avoid seeing a dentist – the truth is that you may experience a more serious condition that requires additional time and money. Before you assume your dental insurance will be no good for these situations, keep reading to discover how much it can help you when faced with an emergency.
Will Dental Insurance Cover an Emergency Visit?
It’s important that you review your dental insurance plan or have a member of your team do it on your behalf. This will not only explain which services and which ones are not, but it will also likely include one free emergency exam each year.
Dentists understand that things can happen, especially those you do not expect (i.e., chipped, cracked, knocked-out tooth, etc.), so knowing that your policy is available to minimize the financial expense can feel like a burden has been lifted.
How Can I Receive the Greatest Savings?
You will also notice that the visit itself is not where the greatest expense exists. Instead, it is with the recommended restorative care that you will need to repair your damaged tooth.
During the examination phase of your same-day appointment, your dentist will discuss the state of your existing problem, as well as determine which method of treatment will be most effective. Generally, the most common methods of treatment for a dental emergency include antibiotics, a dental filling, a dental crown, root canal treatment, tooth extraction, etc.
No matter what kind of care your dentist suggests, as long as you’ve met your annual deductible, your insurance company will agree to pay more for the service(s) you receive. One caveat, though, is that you have an annual maximum – the allotted amount your insurer provides. This is what they agree to pay for one year. As long as you have not exceeded what is available, you can expect full or partial payment; however, if any out-of-pocket costs are accrued, your dentist will discuss additional ways to help lower your bill and respective fees.
Do not let your fear of money keep you from getting urgent dental treatment. Your smile is worthy of the investment, as you’ll get to enjoy better oral health for a lifetime.
About the Author
Dr. Ashish Nayak maintains an impressive resume of educational and professional experience that ranges from completing dental school in India in 2011, a Master of Public Health at Temple University in 2015, and a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at Howard University College of Dentistry in 2017. He then graduated with honors in prosthodontics and is set to receive Fellowship status from the Academy of General Dentistry in 2025. Alongside his colleague, the two work hand-in-hand to provide top-quality dental care in all forms, including emergencies. With same-day and Saturday appointments available, we can make sure you or your loved one gets the care you need right away. Just contact us at (540) 680-4880 and let us help alleviate your pain and restore your smile in no time.