The Truth About Dental InsuranceCongratulations if you are one of the 60% of the population with the benefits of dental insurance! It is exciting when you get that dental insurance benefit-you just know that now you can get that smile you have always wanted. Dental insurance may have never been one reason you chose one job over another. It is a job perk that some receive as a addendum to their medical insurance or a separate negotiated benefit. That being said, it is not a piece of information that most people can interpret easily. Dental insurance can be like that legal-ez you and I skip over when we sign our life away for a mortgage or automobile. If any of these thoughts sounds familiar to you then read on. I am here to help you through this jungle! Some truisms about dental insurance you need to know:

1. Dental insurance is capped at a yearly maximum. For about all policies this is $1,000-$2,000 per year. It has been this way since the 1960's.
2. Dental Benefits paid for procedures vary greatly from company to company and even policy types within companies. It becomes a function of what your individual employer is willing to pay for. This is why it is very difficult for you and your neighbors to compare coverage "over the fence."
3. It's best and most effective use for most consumer is as a maintenance tool. It would be like you getting your oil changes paid for or most paid for, but major maintenance on your car is an out of pocket expense.
4. Some dental insurance policies give you the choice to see who you would like. Others give you a list to follow. By and large if you are restricted to a list the relationship with your dentist will be minimal at best.
5. Your dental insurance company will likely try to influence your decision about dental care you receive. Many times clerks who are giving you information have less dental knowledge than you. Yet they will give you opinions that should come from your dentist. Find a dentist who treats you like they would a family member and listen to them. You will win in the end.
6. Never base your dental appointment frequency on whether you have insurance. Keeping consistent hygiene maintenance appointments will save dollars and your smile in the long run.

All of this being said, the success of a dental relationship can have dental insurance as an aid. I espouse helping anyone get all of the benefits they are due-that's how I would like to be treated as well. However be aware of the fact that dental insurance can get between you and your dentist. The relationship that Dr. Lepard strives to create is medicated on trust and integrity between us and the patient. I believe that will give me the ability to help my patients achieve their dental goals. Health, function, and appearance are the primary reasons my patients seek my advice.