How Does MetLife Dental Insurance Work?

Dental insurance helps ensure patients maintain good oral health. It also exists in case patients need services beyond routine care. Prevention is vital when it comes to good oral care. Dental insurance is important in maintaining a beautiful smile, healthy teeth, and also planning ahead for unexpected costs. Oral health issues can result in serious discomfort and expensive treatment. MetLife offers dental insurance coverage to customers in order to meet their oral health needs.

Dental Plans

A good dental insurance plan can help patients with a variety of oral healthcare needs. This can range from exams to routine cleanings, braces, or dental fillings for a cavity. Dental helps protect a patient’s finances and smile. A summary of how dental insurance works is outlined below:

  1. Dental insurance can cover the cost of preventive care. This includes routine visits for an examination and cleaning. These visits help maintain good oral health and prevent expensive bills in the future. Maintaining good oral health aids in preventing serious issues.
  2. When customers are selecting a dental insurance plan, it is important to consider their current oral health needs in addition to how they would handle an unexpected service, if needed. It is helpful to think about both current and future oral health care needs when evaluating dental plans.
  3. Customers who have children often benefit from more comprehensive coverage. This results in lower out-of-pocket costs and can include additional coverage for unique needs such as braces.

When dental issues occur, they can be incredibly painful and costly to treat. The cost for dental services can vary based on a variety of factors. Customers are often surprised to learn that it can cost over $1,500 for a dental crown.

Dental Insurance Benefits

Below are some of the key benefits associated with MetLife dental insurance plans.

Large Network

MetLife’s network of dentists includes thousands of providers. It is easy and convenient for patients to find a good dentist in their area.

Flexible

Dental plans give customers flexibility in visiting providers regardless of if they are in the network or not. In general, professional cleanings and examinations are fully covered by insurance.

Affordable

MetLife negotiates discounted rates for customers on covered services. These rates are usually 35-50% lower than the average cost for services.

Preferred Dentist Program

The MetLife Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans include a preferred dentist program. The program works to save money on dental services for customers and includes thousands of general dentists and specialists across the country. Customers also have lower costs for out-of-pocket services, which are in-network.

Participating Dentists

Participating dentists are general dentists or specialists who accept negotiated fees for the covered services. These negotiated fees are often reduced by 35 - 50%.

Finding a Provider

Customers can use a directory to find a provider in their area. The search tool includes helpful information on providers in the network, including languages, specialties, location, and contact information.

Emergency Service

In-network dental offices provide 24/7 access to emergency care. Customers who are unable to visit their selected dentist can visit another licensed dental care professional. Be sure to review the definition of emergency service within your specific policy.

Specialist

Customers who need to be seen by a specialist have access to a vast network of specialty providers. In most cases, the plan allows for direct referrals. The general dentist will provide customers with the contact information for the specialist, which does not require preauthorization. Customers are able to contact the specialist directly.

Dental insurance is important in maintaining good oral health. Call the office today to discuss any questions regarding our services. We can also answer any questions related to your dental insurance.

To learn more about our billing and insurance coverage, contact us.

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