When it comes to dental insurance, most people are familiar with the basics – cleanings, fillings, and perhaps even a crown or two.

However, there are many dental insurance extras that can be added to your policy to provide additional coverage and help you save money in the long run. In this article, we’ll break down some of the most common dental insurance extras and explain how they work.

Preventive Services

Preventive services are designed to help you avoid costly dental problems down the line. These services typically include things like regular cleanings, exams, and x-rays, and are often covered at 100% by most dental insurance plans.

Additionally, many plans offer discounts on preventive services such as fluoride treatments and sealants, which can help further protect your teeth from decay and damage.

Orthodontic Coverage

If you or someone in your family requires orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, you may be able to add this coverage as an extra to your dental insurance plan.

Orthodontic coverage can be particularly beneficial for children and teenagers, who may require more extensive treatment to correct serious issues like jaw misalignment or bite problems. Some plans may have age restrictions or waiting periods for orthodontic coverage, so be sure to check with your provider before enrolling.

Dental Implant Coverage

Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth, and can be a great alternative to dentures or bridges. However, they can also be expensive, with costs running into the thousands of dollars per tooth.

Dental implant coverage can help defray these costs, making it easier and more affordable to get the tooth replacement you need. Keep in mind that not all plans offer dental implant coverage, and there may be restrictions on the types of implants that are covered.

Cosmetic Dentistry Coverage

While cosmetic dentistry is often considered elective and not medically necessary, many people still choose to pursue these services in order to improve the appearance of their teeth and smile.

Common cosmetic dental procedures include teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding. Some dental insurance plans offer cosmetic dentistry coverage as an extra, although this is less common than other types of coverage.

Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery Coverage

In some cases, dental problems may require surgical intervention in order to correct or alleviate pain and discomfort.

Maxillofacial and oral surgery coverage is designed to help defray the costs of these procedures, which can include extractions, root canals, and other types of oral surgery. Depending on the severity of the problem, these procedures can be quite expensive, making this type of extra coverage particularly valuable.

Discount Programs

In addition to specific types of coverage, many dental insurance plans also offer discount programs that can help you save money on a variety of dental services.

These programs may provide discounts on things like orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and even routine cleanings and check-ups. While they may not provide the same level of coverage as a fully-fledged dental insurance plan, these discount programs can still be a valuable tool for those looking to save money on their dental care.

Dental Savings Plans

Finally, there are also dental savings plans, which are similar to discount programs but operate a bit differently. With a dental savings plan, you pay an annual fee in exchange for access to discounted rates on a wide range of dental services.

These plans are particularly helpful for those without dental insurance, as they offer an affordable alternative to traditional insurance plans. However, be sure to read the fine print carefully before signing up for a dental savings plan, as the terms and conditions can vary widely from plan to plan.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a variety of dental insurance extras available that can help you save money on your dental care, while also providing additional coverage and peace of mind.

Whether you’re looking for preventive services, orthodontic coverage, or help with cosmetic dentistry or oral surgery, there is likely a dental insurance extra that can meet your needs. Be sure to talk to your dental insurance provider to learn more about the options available to you, and to determine which extra coverage is best suited to your individual needs and budget.