Panicking About Payments: Will Dental Insurance Help with Emergency Visits?

While the initial cause for panic may be your dental emergency, there’s a good chance that you’ll soon begin to worry about the potential cost of treating your cracked, broken, or knocked-out tooth. Before you allow yourself to go down the rabbit hole of “what ifs,” it’s important to remember that most dental insurance companies are designed to help in times of need. Keep reading to learn the truth about what kind of coverage is available when facing an oral injury and why you don’t need to panic when it comes to paying for treatment.

What is the General Rule About Dental Insurance & Emergencies?

Each dental insurance plan is different, so it’s always best to review your policy to see what kind of coverage is available. However, it is common for most companies to provide one free emergency exam every year.

Apart from the initial visit, real cost savings occur when it’s time to receive restorative care. Your dentist will identify what kind of treatment is required to repair the damage and restore your smile so that better oral health is achieved.

Depending on the recommended treatment, your dental insurance company may provide anywhere from 50-80% coverage. In most cases, dental fillings and simple extractions are viewed as minor restorative services (70-80%), while dental crowns, dentures, complex extractions, and oral surgery are considered major restorative services (50%).

The remaining balance is what you can expect to pay out of pocket when requiring emergency dental care.

How Can You Afford the Out-of-Pocket Expenses?

Even after filing with your dental insurance company, you may be worried about the amount you’ll be required to pay out of pocket. This is normal and is common among most patients. Fortunately, there are ways to take care of your portion without breaking the bank, such as:

• Flexible Financing: Many third-party financiers provide low- and no-interest payment plans, allowing patients like yourself to break down the cost of your care into manageable monthly installments.
• In-House Membership Program: Some dental offices offer in-house membership programs that are affordable for anyone who isn’t enrolled in a private dental insurance plan. These often require a low annual fee but provide preventive services and discounts on all other available treatment options.

When asking the question, “How much does an emergency dentist cost,” don’t assume the worst. By doing your research or working with a member of your dental team to find ways to maximize your benefits, you can get the timely care you need at a price you can afford.

About the Author
Dr. Marco Caballeros earned his dental degree at the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry before pursuing Baylor’s Advanced Education in General Dentistry post-doctoral program. As one of two dentists at On Point Dentistry, he enjoys helping patients who require emergency care, offering affordable restorative solutions that can repair and rebuild smiles to their former beauty and function. If you have a damaged or infected tooth that needs treatment but are concerned about the cost, contact us at (469) 476-4092.