We all need regular dental check-ups. However, if your health insurance plan does not cover dental visits, the fees can be quite steep. A recent report by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health shows that 77 million Americans don't have dental insurance. So, you may be wondering what the options are when you need regular or emergency dental services and you lack dental insurance. Most people opt for low-income dental clinics, however, they are not the only option.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a state-run program that, depending on the circumstances, offers dental benefits. While the guidelines for eligibility are different from one state to the next, most provide emergency dental treatments for patients. However, patients have to be older than 21 years. It is important to note that the services offered by Medicaid are limited to emergency dental treatment.
Medicare
Are you 65 years or older or a person with disabilities? Medicare is the right program for you. There is a caveat; it does not cover routine dental care procedures. These include tooth extractions, dental implants, dentures, fillings, and cleaning. Medicare is clustered into four parts. Part A will cater to different dental procedures done in a hospital while Part C or private Medicare Advantage, may include dental insurance.
Children's Health Insurance Program
Children's Health Insurance Program or CHIP offers dental services to patients aged 19 years and below. Some of the services offered include treatment of infection, dental health maintenance, and teeth restoration.
Dental Schools
Dental schools offer quality, lower-cost dental treatment provided by supervised dentistry students. Teaching institutions often have state-of-the-art equipment, and innovative procedures. Even better, the procedures are supervised by professors.
Do not be worried about the rising cost of dental procedures. Give us a call today and we will provide you with affordable services. We will discuss the payment plans with you.