Brushing up on how to use Marketplace dental insurance

Published on August 25, 2016

When you enrolled in Marketplace coverage, you may have chosen a health plan that included dental coverage or purchased a separate, stand-alone dental plan.

Here are some tips to make sure you’re getting the most out of your dental insurance.

Know what services your dental plan covers

• Even though many dental insurance plans cover common dental benefits — like fillings, cleanings, care to fix decayed or fractured teeth, and dentures — different plans cover different services.
• Some dental plans only cover children and others cover families.
• Check with your dental insurance company to find out what’s exactly covered.

Understand your out-of-pocket costs

• With a high coverage level, you’ll have higher
  premiums

  The amount you pay for your health insurance every month. In addition to your premium, you usually have to pay other costs for your health care, including a deductible, copayments, and coinsurance. If you have a Marketplace health plan, you may be able to lower your costs with a premium tax credit.

  but lower
  copayments

  A fixed amount ($20, for example) you pay for a covered health care service after you've paid your deductible.

  and
  deductibles

  The amount you pay for covered health care services before your insurance plan starts to pay. With a $2,000 deductible, for example, you pay the first $2,000 of covered services yourself.

  . So you'll pay more every month, but less when you use dental services.
• With a low coverage level, you’ll pay less every month, but more when you get services.

Find a dentist that’s right for you

• Not all types of providers take all insurance plans or types of coverage. Call the office before you go to make sure they accept your coverage.
• When you make your appointment, have your insurance card or other documentation handy and know what services you want to get.

More advantages of having health insurance

• Your Marketplace plan also covers treatment for pre-existing medical conditions and preventive health benefits.
• Find out the other advantages of health insurance you get with your Marketplace plan.