Do you ever wonder whether you’re truly maximizing your dental insurance benefits?
Most people don’t and end up losing hundreds of dollars every year in unused coverage.
At Steele Creek Smiles in Charlotte, NC 28273, we help patients understand how dental insurance typically works so they can make informed decisions, avoid last-minute surprises, and stay proactive with their oral health. Many PPO plans, including popular options such as Delta Dental PPO, offer far more coverage for preventive and basic care than patients realize.
Let’s break down what’s generally included… and what many people overlook.
Understanding Your Dental Insurance Benefits in Charlotte, NC
Dental insurance can feel confusing at first, but once you understand the basics, you can use your benefits more efficiently.
Many PPO plans such as Delta Dental PPO follow a structure where preventive care is usually covered at the highest level, followed by partial coverage for basic and major services.
However, coverage varies widely based on your specific plan, deductible, frequency limits, and waiting periods.
This general structure often looks like:
- Preventive care – typically covered at the highest percentage*
- Basic services – partially covered*
- Major services – partially covered at a lower percentage*
*Actual coverage depends on your individual plan, employer agreement, and insurance carrier policies.
What Dental Insurance Typically Covers
1. Preventive Care (Often Covered at the Highest Level)
Preventive care helps you maintain a healthy smile and avoid expensive procedures later. Many PPO plans, including Delta Dental PPO, commonly include:
- Routine cleanings
- Comprehensive exams
- Digital X-rays
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental sealants
- Oral cancer screenings
👉 These services may be covered fully or partially depending on your plan meaning many patients miss out on benefits they’re entitled to use.
2. Basic Services (Partially Covered Under Many PPO Plans)
These may include:
- Tooth-colored fillings
- Simple extractions
- Periodontal cleanings (for gum disease)
- Emergency exams
Coverage percentages vary by plan, but insurance often helps significantly with these procedures.
3. Major Services (Coverage Varies by Plan)
Common major treatments include:
- Crowns
- Bridges
- Dentures
- Root canals
- Surgical extractions
Delaying these procedures can sometimes increase long-term costs, so patients benefit from reviewing their plan before postponing treatment.
Commonly Overlooked Dental Insurance Benefits
Many dental plans including Delta Dental PPO and other PPO providers offer benefits that patients may not realize they have. Always check your specific policy for details.
1. Night Guards (for Teeth Grinding)
Some plans offer partial coverage for custom night guards used to treat bruxism.
2. Periodontal Maintenance
If you’ve undergone gum treatment, certain plans allow additional periodontal maintenance visits beyond standard cleanings.
3. Fluoride & Sealants for Adults
Some modern PPO plans now extend these benefits to adults.
4. Extra Cleanings During Pregnancy
Some insurance policies may allow additional cleanings during pregnancy due to increased gum sensitivity.
5. Orthodontic Benefits
Certain plans may include coverage for:
- Teen braces
- Adult orthodontics
- Invisalign® (varies widely)
6. Annual Maximums
Most plans reset annually usually January 1st but some mid-year. Unused benefits typically do not carry over, meaning many patients lose valuable coverage.
How to Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits at Steele Creek Smiles
Using a strategic approach helps you make the most of your insurance:
✔ Schedule preventive visits early
✔ Address problems before they worsen
✔ Know your remaining benefits our team can help you check your insurance
✔ Use your annual maximum before it resets
✔ Plan major treatments across benefit periods when possible
Who Benefits Most from Using Their Dental Insurance Wisely?
Patients in Charlotte, Steele Creek, Berewick, Ayrsley, Lake Wylie, Fort Mill, and nearby areas benefit the most if they:
- Haven’t used their routine cleanings
- Experience tooth sensitivity
- Grind their teeth
- Haven’t reviewed their benefits this year
- Have children needing sealants or orthodontic evaluations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does dental insurance typically cover?
Generally: preventive care at the highest level, partial coverage for basic treatments, and partial coverage for major services depending on your plan.
How much can I save by using my dental benefits?
Patients can reduce out-of-pocket costs by completing preventive care and treating issues early.
Do dental benefits expire?
Yes. Most plans renew annually and unused benefits usually do not rollover.
Can I get a cost estimate before treatment?
Yes. Steele Creek Smiles can request a pre-treatment estimate from your insurance provider.
Does insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Most cosmetic procedures are not covered. However, functional treatments such as crowns or orthodontics may have partial coverage depending on the plan.
How do I check my remaining insurance balance?
You can review your insurance portal, contact your carrier, or ask our front desk team for assistance.
Which dental insurance plans are accepted at Steele Creek Smiles?
Steele Creek Smiles Clinic accepts a wide range of dental insurance plans including Delta, Aetna, Cigna, Metlife, Humana, Altus Dental etc. To confirm whether your specific plan is accepted, you can check your insurance portal or contact our front desk our team will gladly verify your coverage for you
Conclusion
Your dental insurance is a powerful resource but only if you use it. Staying proactive helps you save money, maintain a healthy smile, and avoid unnecessary dental concerns.Ready to maximize your benefits?
Schedule your appointment today with Steele Creek Smiles in Charlotte, NC 28273.
📞 (704) 587-1010
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