What Are Dental Insurance Waiting Periods?

Dental insurance is an investment in a healthy smile. Your premiums give you access to a nationwide network of dental professionals, allowing you to visit your dentist regularly for minimal out-of-pocket expenses. If you’ve recently purchased a new policy, your dental insurance may have a waiting period. This doesn’t mean you can’t use your coverage. Instead, there may be certain limitations for a few months. Here’s what you need to know about dental insurance waiting periods.

How Dental Insurance Works

Dental insurance is meant to stop common oral health issues from occurring in the first place. Not only can you keep your mouth and body healthy, but you can also reduce your overall oral health expenses by avoiding costly dental work. However, if an issue occurs, your dental insurance is there for you. They’ll cover some of the expenses. Although every plan differs, most dental insurance covers:

• 100% of preventive dentistry
• 80% of basic dental work
• 50% of major dental services

You can visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup for a co-payment. You’ll benefit from the services you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy to avoid common dental problems. Your dentist can monitor your oral health to benefit from quick detection. You are given an annual allowance to use toward the cost of common restorative procedures after meeting your yearly deductible. At the end of the year, your benefits reset. 

Dental Insurance Waiting Periods

A dental insurance waiting period can occur if you’ve recently purchased a policy. This is meant to deter people from only getting insurance when they need dental work, and then dropping their coverage afterward. 

A waiting period is the length of time you must wait to have access to your full benefits. It can range from a few months to a full year. You can still use your coverage for preventive services. Some dental insurances allow you to receive basic dental work, but you’ll have to wait until after the waiting period for major services.

If you require major dental work during your waiting period, your insurance may work with you. They may cover some of the expenses, but at a lower rate. 

Not everyone will have a waiting period. It’s important to read your insurance plan to find out if you have any limitations. Your dentist will also work on your behalf with your dental insurance to maximize your coverage.

About Dr. Christopher Capehart

Dr. Capehart earned his dental degree at the University of Texas Health Science Center and has continued his education to provide the latest solutions in dentistry. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the Dallas County Dental Society. Book an appointment through his website or call his office at (817) 873-3780.