Why Do Dental Insurance Plans Have Waiting Periods?

Did you recently get dental insurance, only to realize the treatment you need has a waiting period? In short, this means a certain amount of time needs to pass before your provider will cover a portion of the cost. But why do they exist? How long do they typically last? What should you do if you need treatment right away? To learn the answers to these questions, keep reading!

So, Why Do Dental Insurance Plans Have Waiting Periods?

In short, dental insurances have waiting periods to encourage patients to seek regular care throughout the year instead of purchasing last-minute coverage for a major procedure and dropping the plan afterward. The hope is also that people will have dental insurance even when their teeth are healthy to keep the cost low for everyone involved. Since preventing a problem instead of treating it is better for your oral health too, it’s a win all-around!

How Long Are Waiting Periods Typically?

Since waiting periods vary, there isn’t a “typical” timeframe. While some are only a month, others are an entire calendar year. So, it ultimately depends on the fine print on your dental plan. Of course, you can still visit your dentist during this time; it’s just a good idea to be aware of the limitations of your coverage. Don’t worry – your dental team will be able to help with this!

What If You Need Treatment During Your Waiting Period?

If you need a specific treatment, like root canal therapy, but you have a waiting period before your insurance will cover a portion of the cost, talk to your dentist! Remember, many dental problems only get worse when neglected. Therefore, time is of the essence. For this reason, they may recommend you move forward with the treatment anyway. Fortunately, many practices offer other financial solutions, including flexible financing. As a result, you can still get the treatment you need without breaking the bank. Instead, you can space out your payments into manageable monthly chunks so you don’t have to stress about handling the cost all at once.

While waiting periods ultimately serve a good purpose, they can sometimes make it difficult to figure out exactly what is covered and when. The good news is that your dental team can help along the way so you aren’t left feeling unsure about your benefits!

About the Practice

Our team at Studio City Dental Arts wants every facet of your experience to be smooth, enjoyable, and positive. That’s why we go above and beyond to help with everything from scheduling your appointment to figuring out the financials. In addition to welcoming dental insurance and happily accepting flexible financing, our knowledgeable staff will answer any questions you have along the way so there are no unexpected surprises when it comes time to pay. If you have a question about dental insurance or you’d like to schedule an appointment, then don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (818) 760-0200.