Dental Insurance Phoenix

How to Use Your Dental Insurance

Using dental insurance in Phoenix to help lower your out-of-pocket expenses is a common approach many patients take when visiting the dentist. As a worthwhile investment that offers greater savings on preventive and restorative treatment, these plans can help alleviate much of the stress associated with oral healthcare. We understand this here at Metro Refresh Dentistry; it’s why we are pleased to be in-network with several plans and will always work to maximize your available benefits.

How Dental Insurance Works

Male patient listening as dentist shows him X-rays

Dental insurance helps avoid high out-of-pocket costs associated with preventive and restorative treatments. While each plan is different, a general breakdown of benefits might look like:

  • 100% coverage for preventive care (i.e., dental exams and cleanings)
  • 80% coverage for minor restorative care (i.e., dental fillings)
  • 50% coverage for major restorative care (i.e., dentures, dental crowns)

You should not expect your dental insurance plan to cover the cost of cosmetic care, as it is generally considered a “luxury” treatment or non-medical service.

What is the Difference Between Dental and Medical Insurance?

Individual smiling in the mirror at the dentist’s office

The difference between dental and medical insurance is that one addresses reactive situations while the other focuses on prevention.

If you break your leg, develop an illness, or require hospitalization, you can expect your medical insurance to offer greater savings after the incident.

If you want to minimize the risk of developing dental decay, cavities, gum disease, infection, or damage, your dental insurance will reward you by covering most, if not all, of the cost of preventive care. The goal is to reduce the potential need for restorative dentistry, which is often more expensive.

In-Network vs. Out-of-Network

Female patient shaking hands with her dentist

There are two types of dentists: those who are in-network with dental insurance and those who are out-of-network. Choosing which one is right for you requires examining your plan and deciding what matters most.

In-Network

With an in-network dentist in Phoenix, you are more likely to save out-of-pocket on your preventive and restorative dental needs. This is because the dentist has a contract with the insurance company to provide certain services at a designated rate, so fees and terms are established in advance.

Metro Refresh Dentistry is pleased to be in-network with:

  • Delta Dental
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • United Concordia

Out-of-Network

An out-of-network dentist is not in a contract with any dental insurance company or plan, which means they can set their own fees and rates for the services they provide. If we are not in-network with your plan, do not worry. We will still file all the necessary paperwork and help you get the maximum reimbursement after treatment.