Dental Insurance – Altavista, VA

A Dental Insurance-Friendly Dental Office

We know how important dental insurance is for making dental care affordable for many families. To that end, we’re happy to accept a wide variety of dental insurance plans, and our team members are ready to help you find the best way to get the absolute most out of your benefits. The guide below covers the basics of what you need to know when it comes to using dental insurance to pay for regular checkups and other smile-creating services.

Happy family smiling after visiting their dentist

Understanding How Dental Insurance Works

Man discussing dental insurance with dental team member

The focus of dental insurance can be summed up with one word: “prevention.” Dental checkups, cleanings, and other preventive services tend to receive the most coverage under any given dental plan. The idea is that by making it easier for you to attend your regular dental appointments, you can avoid tooth decay and other serious oral health issues altogether – which means that you are less likely to have to pay for additional services to repair a damaged or worn-down smile.

What Your Dental Insurance Plan Covers

Mother and child filling out dental insurance claim forms at dental office

You should check with your insurance company to see exactly what kind of coverage you’re eligible for when it comes to specific dental services. Many insurance companies will follow a 100-80-50 structure as follows:

  • 100% coverage for preventive care (checkups, cleanings, X-rays, and so on)
  • 80% coverage for basic treatments, such as placing a filling
  • 50% coverage for major treatments, such as a dental bridge

Note that some companies have a slightly different definition for what constitutes a basic and major dental treatment.