Dental Hygienist’s Role
The Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) is an integral
part of the oral health care profession. The dental hygienist
specializes in prevention, with knowledge and clinical skills
to prevent, detect, and treat diseases of the oral cavity. His/her
preventive and therapeutic skills should be part of your overall
dental treatment.
Expectations
Dental insurance is designed as a financial assistance for
your dental needs. Insurance should not determine your dental
care and treatment. For example, you may require 3-4 cleans
per year to control tooth decay or gum disease. Insurance
may pay for only two appointments. You will need to contribute
financially to maintain optimum oral health. Be informed.
Take responsibility.
Insurance Plans and Descriptions
Open Panel (Indemnity)
- allows choice of dental office
- insurance company & you each pay percentage of fees
- dentist reimbursed based on fee schedule
- wide variety of plans available
- encourages prevention
Managed Care (HMO)
- prepaid plan with specific network of dental offices
- treatment overseen by HMO
- dentist reimbursed less than usual & customary fees
- co-payment often required
Managed Care (PPO)
- choice of either dental offices within or outside network
listed
- more treatment options
- dentist reimbursed based on negotiated fee schedule
- co-payment often required
Self-Funded Insurance (Direct Reimbursement)
- allows choice of dental office
- employer directly reimburses you a predetermined amount
- employer/company sponsored
- simple and easy to use
- you & dentist play active role in your treatment and
oral health
Insurance Selection and Use
Can you choose your dental office or must you choose
from a list? Are you allowed to see specialists and how many
are available on your plan? How many providers in your area?
Are there co-payments for many services? Ask and Compare.
Remember - insurance coverage is just a partial assistance
toward good oral health.
Know your benefits - read your policy and compare.
Know your options - limitations and exclusions of your plan.
Practice good oral hygiene- follow the advice of your registered
dental hygienist and dentist.
Provide feedback- let others know of your experiences.
Ask questions- be interested and involved in your own health.
Ask for option alternatives at your insurance renewal.
Maintain Good Oral Health
Most dental plans provide coverage for selected diagnostic
services, preventive care and emergency treatment. These services
are basic for maintaining good oral health. However, depending
on your plan, the extent or frequency of the services covered
may be limited.
You may be required to pay the dentist directly for a portion
of the basic care, depending upon your individual oral health
needs. Good dental health is worth the investment.
Every dental care plan is different. Familiarize yourself
of the benefits of your dental plan to maximize your coverage.
During the negotiation and/or renewal of your coverage, ask
about different options and alternatives for your insurance
package.
Remember - the registered dental hygienist is an important
part of your dental visit.
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