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Why dental bills surprise people, and seven ways to spend less
Dental care is often paid for differently from the rest of health care, which is why bills catch people off guard. A little preparation goes a long way.
Why the bill can be a surprise
Many dental plans work like a small yearly allowance rather than insurance in the usual sense. They often have an annual maximum, a deductible, waiting periods for bigger work, and different percentages for different types of care. Original Medicare generally does not cover routine dental care.
Seven ways to spend less
- Keep up with prevention. Catching a small cavity is cheaper than fixing a broken tooth.
- Learn your plan. Ask about your maximum, deductible, waiting periods and which dentists are in network.
- Ask for an itemized treatment plan with each procedure listed, so you can compare.
- Ask what is urgent. Some work can be phased over months, which may help you use benefits across two plan years.
- Use tax-advantaged money. Health savings and flexible spending accounts can often pay for dental care.
- Look at lower-cost clinics. Dental schools, community health centers and sliding-scale clinics often charge less.
- Ask about payment options. Some offices offer payment plans or a discount for paying upfront.
Insurance, savings plans, and public programs
A discount (“savings”) plan is a membership that lowers fees at participating offices. It is not insurance. Medicaid dental benefits for adults vary a lot by state, and children’s coverage through Medicaid or CHIP is usually broader.
A note on getting a second opinion
For major or expensive work, it is reasonable to ask another dentist to review the plan. A second opinion is routine and most offices will send records on request.
What Crownivo does not do
We do not quote prices, recommend dentists or sell plans. We explain the terms so that you can ask better questions.
General information only. Crownivo is not a dental or medical provider and this is not dental or medical advice. Talk with your own dentist about your situation. In an emergency, call 911.