Understanding Pre-Treatment Estimates
Pre-treatment estimates are instrumental in helping you budget for dental care
When you need a routine dental cleaning, it’s easy to figure out how much the procedure will cost: simply call the dental office and ask. But when it comes to extensive cosmetic or restorative dental work, you need to get a pre-treatment estimate. This is especially true if you plan to use your dental insurance to cover any portion of the cost.
What is a Pre-Treatment Estimate?
A pre-treatment estimate is a personalized breakdown of the cost of your desired or necessary dental services, based on your dentist’s careful examination of your teeth and evaluation of your needs. If you have dental insurance, the pre-treatment estimate will be sent to your insurance company for review, so that they can confirm the amount that will be covered under your plan and the amount you will need to pay out of pocket.
Key Terms for Understanding Insurance Estimates
Class of Service: Insurance plans typically break down preventative and restorative dental care into three classes of service. Class I services (cleanings, exams, and x-rays) are typically covered at 100 percent. Class II services (fillings) may be covered at about 80 percent, while Class III services (crowns, bridges, and dentures) are usually covered at just 50 percent. Cosmetic services are typically not covered at all.
Copayment: Many dental insurance plans require patients to pay a copayment out of their own pocket at every dental visit.
Deductible: For Class II and III services, you may be required to pay a certain amount yourself before your insurance will begin providing benefits. Class I services are often covered with no deductible.
Maximum Benefit: Dental insurance plans will only pay for care up to the maximum benefit amount, which is basically an annual limit for coverage. Your limit may be anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on your plan.
How to Pay for Out of Pocket Costs
If you need extensive dental work, if you want cosmetic treatment, or if you do not have dental insurance, you may be facing significant out of pocket costs. Fortunately, California Dental Group can help with a variety of financing options.
Get a No-Obligation Estimate from California Dental Group
If you need dental work, make an appointment with California Dental Group today. We accept a variety of dental insurance plans, and our care coordinators will work closely with you to help you understand and maximize your insurance coverage, as well as find solutions for financing your out of pocket expenses.
