Many West Augusta Dental Associates patients express frustration when they discover their dental insurance will only cover the "least expensive alternative treatment." This practice is common and built into most dental benefit plans; understanding why can help you navigate your coverage more effectively.
Dental Insurance 101
Dental insurance plans are designed primarily to provide basic coverage while keeping premiums affordable. To balance costs, insurers typically structure their benefits to cover what they consider functionally adequate treatment rather than optimal or premium options. For example, we can restore a tooth with either a silver amalgam filling or a tooth-colored composite filling, many plans will only pay for the less expensive amalgam option.
This approach allows insurance companies to provide some level of coverage for a wide range of treatments while managing their costs. However, it's important to note that the least expensive treatment isn't always the best choice for your specific dental situation or long-term oral health.
Patient-Centered Dental Care with Your Needs in Mind
At West Augusta Dental Associates, we recommend treatment based on what's best for your dental health, not what your insurance covers. We're happy to discuss all available options, including their benefits, limitations, and costs, so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Our team diligently works to help you maximize your insurance benefits while receiving quality dental care. If you have questions about how your specific plan works with our treatment recommendations, please contact our Augusta dental office at (706) 738-8070.