Dental Insurance - Some Questions Answered
A Insurance Article Contributed by Shobha Cutting
What is Dental Insurance
Dental insurance or the dental benefits plan is an agreement between the policyholder and the insurance company that provides for reimbursement of some dental expenses to the policyholder against payment of a fixed periodically payable premium to the insurance company. Dental insurance plans vary considerably, both in their coverage and the premium. Certain plans may omit or severely restrict some dental procedures.
The plan that allows a greater amount by way of reimbursement limit is not necessarily the better plan if it does not allow certain preventive procedures. Prevention is the best way of protecting your dental health.
Heath Insurance Compared with Dental Insurance
The diseases and problems of a person's oral health are generally preventable. Preventive care in respect of your dental problems will make catastrophic medical insurance redundant. The cost of medical attention may be subject to increase but the cost of prevention may not be.
Dental Insurance - Some Considerations
When buying dental insurance, check the following properties of the plan you propose to invest in.
· A good dental insurance plan must include reimbursement of expenses incurred in preventive care and not just treatment of problems that have occurred.
· The dental insurance plan must respect your right to choose your dentist and not insist that you approach one of the dentists on the panel of the insurance company.
· Whereas group dental insurance will reduce costs, the insurance that you opt for must satisfy your individual needs. A policy catering to the 'average' needs may not match your specific needs. The group insurance policy is a good idea only if also suited to you.
· The policy you pick should have your interest as the primary concern. Who determines the permissibility of your claiming reimbursement for a particular procedure? Is that person a qualified dentist? Is that person easily accessible in case of disputes?
· Does the policyholder have his/her say in the choice of insurance policy, regardless of whoever makes the payment? If your employer is providing the policy, it must be kept in mind that the policy is provided to the employee by virtue of his/her service, and forms a part of the employee's dues.
The policyholder must familiarize himself/herself with all the provisions contained in the policy document. Whenever in doubt, ask your insurance agent or employer. If the answers are not satisfactory, raise the issue with the insurance department of your state. Insist on a clear description of the cover that your policy will provide, and the limits. Are the limits realistic, considering the prevailing costs in your area? A fringe benefit that isn't used because it doesn't meet your needs wastes your employer's money. Speak up!
Familiarize yourself with the meaning and implications of terms like indemnity coverage and managed care programs; dental care service plans, and capitation plans etc. If your employer provides dental insurance, speak to the concerned person in your organization about the good and bad experiences that you may have had with your insurance company.
