When it comes to paying for your dental treatment, it’s unlikely that you want to dip into your savings to afford the expected costs. This is why many individuals turn to dental insurance to alleviate the strain of high out-of-pocket expenses. But do you know the difference between in-network and out-of-network plans? Read on to discover the benefits of both and how you can ensure maximum savings when seeing your dentist.
What Does In-Network Mean?
The term “in-network” means that a dentist has a contractual agreement with a specific dental insurance provider to provide certain services for a set fee. This means that by choosing an in-network dentist, you will likely pay less when preparing to receive one or more dental treatments.
Some of the most valuable benefits come from seeing an in-network dentist, such as 100% preventive care, 80% minor restorative care, and 50% major restorative care.
You will find that by choosing an in-network dentist, you will pay less out of pocket, you’ll receive greater coverage, and the prices you can expect with dental care are much lower.
What Does Out-of-Network Mean?
On the other hand, out-of-network dentists are not contractually obligated to provide services at a lower price because they’re not in-network with any particular dental insurance company. This means that you have more options when it comes to choosing a dentist in your area.
With an out-of-network dentist, you will likely pay more upfront for the services you receive; however, most dental teams are willing to file claims so that you can get the maximum reimbursement from your insurance company.
Which One is Right For You?
The decision you make between choosing an in-network or out-of-network dentist is yours and yours alone, but it’s important to remember that if you want to save the most money, selecting an in-network dentist is best.
Instead of emptying your savings to undergo root canal treatment or another general or complex form of treatment, use your dental insurance in a way that benefits you most – by opting for an in-network professional who doesn’t sacrifice quality but still delivers affordable and exceptional care.
About the Author
Dr. Nicholas Baioni is a trusted Pea Ridge dentist who cares about providing accessible and affordable dental care to patients. After completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Arkansas, he went on to the University of Tennessee Health Science Center to earn his dental doctorate. As the lead oral healthcare professional at Peak Dental Care, he and his team are pleased to be in-network with many PPO dental insurance plans so that you and your family can save. To find out if we accept your dental insurance, visit our website or call (479) 370-2239.