As you most probably know very well, dental costs are very high and, unlike most other medical expenses, patients are required to bear major part of the burden. While you can carefully allocate money in your monthly budget for routine dental care, you may not have the luxury of time when an emergency appears. That’s the reason why it’s wise to plan ahead by getting some form of emergency dental care plan. Here are your best options:
Public assistance. If you are a Medicaid recipient, you may be eligible for dental coverage through this program, which is a partnership between the state and the federal government. Although all those who have enrolled under the age of twenty one receive dental coverage, only about half of the states offer it to adults too. So it is advisable to check with the case worker assigned to see if you can get Medicaid help with your dental emergency.
The next challenge will be to find an emergency dental care practice that accepts Medicaid, as many do not. Medicare, the federal insurance program for senior citizens and a few disabled Americans, does not help patients in times of dental emergency.
Traditional dental insurance. If you are covered under general medical insurance through your employer, you might be able to get dental coverage through the same plan. Ask someone in your Human Resources department if dental coverage is available. You will probably have to pay extra for it, but having coverage could save you a lot in the long run.
These traditional forms of coverage are certainly worth considering. However, they often contain hidden drawbacks including high premiums and deductibles, yearly maximums, complicated paperwork, and required waiting periods before you can have certain procedures done. For a dental emergency, they would only be a realistic option if you were already an active member.
Discount dental plans. For just pittance a day, you can gain access to a network of dentists and specialists if you sign up for one of these plans. Discount dental plans enable you to receive even emergency dental care right away, with no waiting periods and no complicated paperwork. Because you have complete access to all prices, you will never be unpleasantly surprised when it comes time to pay the bill.
Dental Care
