Growing up and becoming an adult can be a trying time, especially when you enter the realm of forms and insurance premiums. Have you ever wondered why medical and dental insurance are separated in the healthcare system? It’s a great question.
Continue reading to learn the differences between medical and dental insurance, so you can navigate the complexities of insurance plans with confidence and make informed decisions for your health and well-being.
What Is the Difference in Coverage?
Dentists and doctors provide care in distinct ways, and their insurance plans reflect these differences in how they are presented to the customer.
Medical insurance focuses on covering the expenses incurred due to injuries and illnesses that have already happened. Given the potential high costs associated with medical treatment, these plans aim to shield you from the financial burden of substantial healthcare bills.
Dental benefits concentrate on preventive care—addressing potential issues before they happen. Dental insurance is designed to alleviate some of the financial obligations related to your oral health.
Regular dental maintenance, including routine checkups and cleanings, plays an important role in preserving a healthy smile. In fact, nearly all cases of cavities are preventable with proper dental care.
Why Are These Insurance Types Divided?
There are many reasons that medical and dental insurance are covered separately. The first reason is what has been discussed above: different mentalities on types of coverage. Here are some other reasons for this split:
Historical Differences
There is a long, storied history of the medical field not accepting dentistry into their purview. This is why you don’t typically go to the hospital when you need a tooth removed or go to the dentist when you have a fever.
In fact, dental insurance lagged behind its medical counterpart by almost a hundred years!
Company and Structural Differences
Medical and dental institutions work in fundamentally different circles. While medical providers work mainly with hospitals and doctors, dental insurance companies work with dentists.
Insurance Company Ideology
When it comes to dental issues, insurance companies typically face lower payout requirements. Dental coverage primarily focuses on preventive measures such as regular teeth cleanings.
After all, it costs much less for the insurance company—and the customer—to prevent a cavity than it does to fix a decayed tooth down the line.
Should I Get Both Types of Insurance?
You might believe you can forgo dental checkups and dental insurance, but it’s worth noting that poor oral hygiene is linked to conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Your physical and dental health are linked through your biology.
Consistent visits to the dentist play a vital role in maintaining overall health, just as regular checkups with your physician do. It’s in your best interest not to overlook dental coverage. It covers routine procedures like cleanings and assists with the cost of other vital treatments.
Investing in your dental health today can prevent future issues that may incur significant expenses in the future. The peace of mind offered by both insurance types is well worth the expenditure.
About the Practice
At Indy Dental Group, their mission is to provide state-of-the-art facilities to offer patients the most convenient and comfortable experience. Commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of the practice, delivering top-tier dental services in a welcoming and patient-centric environment. To schedule an appointment and learn more about our offerings for dental insurance, call (317) 846-6125 or visit the website to learn more.