Navigating dental insurance can feel like trying to decode a foreign language. From deductibles and copays to covered services and waiting periods, it’s easy to get overwhelmed—especially when you’re trying to make the best choices for your family’s dental care.
At Bassett Creek Dental, we’re here to make things easier. As a trusted dental clinic for families in Plymouth, Golden Valley, and the surrounding areas, we believe everyone deserves to understand their dental benefits. Let’s break down the basics of what most dental insurance plans cover, and how to make the most of yours.
Important note: Insurance coverage does vary and you should always check with your provider with what is covered under your unique policy. Below you will find the “normal” items that are and are not covered by dental insurance.
Services Generally Covered by Dental Insurance
Preventive Care: The Foundation of Coverage
Most dental insurance plans fully cover preventive care. That’s because early detection and prevention are key to avoiding more costly procedures later.
Common preventive services include:
- Routine exams (usually every 6 months)
- Dental cleanings
- X-rays (as needed or once per year)
- Fluoride treatments (often covered for children)
- Sealants (typically for kids’ molars)
The goal of preventive care is to stop problems before they start—and when it’s covered at 100%, there’s every reason to take advantage of it. Note, not every policy will cover these procedures 100%, you may still be responsible for a portion of the cost. As stated above, always check directly with your provider so there are no surprises when your bill comes.
Basic Restorative Care: Covered, but Often Partially
Basic procedures—those that treat minor dental issues—are typically covered at 70–80% by insurance plans, after your deductible is met.
This includes:
- Fillings
- Simple extractions
- Some types of root canals
- Periodontal (gum) treatments
These are important treatments that restore the health and function of your teeth. If caught early, many of these issues can be handled simply and affordably.
Major Restorative Care: Covered Less, but Still Helpful
Major dental services are more complex procedures and are generally covered at a lower rate—often 50% after your deductible.
Examples include:
- Dental crowns
- Bridges
- Dentures
- Surgical extractions
- Implants (sometimes covered, but often only partially)
Because coverage levels vary, it’s important to get a pre-treatment estimate from your insurance provider, which our front desk team is happy to help with.
Orthodontics: Sometimes Covered, Usually for Kids
Some insurance plans offer orthodontic benefits, but coverage is typically limited to dependent children under 18. Coverage for Invisalign or adult orthodontics is less common and may be excluded entirely from your policy.
At Bassett Creek Dental, we offer Invisalign and can help you explore financing options if it’s not covered by your plan.
What’s Usually Not Covered?
Dental insurance doesn’t cover everything. While this varies by provider, some common exclusions include:
- Cosmetic treatments (like teeth whitening or veneers)
- Dental procedures for purely aesthetic purposes
- Some dental implants (depending on the plan)
- Adult orthodontics
If you’re unsure whether a treatment is covered, our team can help review your benefits and walk you through your options.
How to Maximize Your Dental Insurance
Here are a few tips to get the most out of your coverage:
- Use your preventive benefits: Schedule cleanings and checkups before the year ends.
- Know your plan year: Many dental benefits reset annually. Don’t let them go to waste!
- Understand your limits: Most plans have an annual maximum—typically between $1,000 and $2,000.
- Ask for estimates: We can provide treatment estimates so you know what’s covered and what you might owe.
We’re Here to Help Golden Valley, Plymouth and Surrounding Areas
At Bassett Creek Dental, we work with most major insurance plans and offer flexible payment options for patients without insurance. Whether you’re new to dental benefits or want to ensure your child’s first visit is covered, we’re here to answer your questions and make dental care simple.
Have questions about your plan? Give us a call or schedule an appointment today. We’re always here to help you smile with confidence.
