Dental Insurance Terms Explained: Deductibles, Annual Maximums and Fee Guides
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Plain-language answers to common dental insurance terms, so you can read your benefits with confidence at your South Surrey dentist.
Insurance paperwork is full of terms that are rarely explained. Here are plain-language answers to questions we hear at our dental office in South Surrey.
What is an annual maximum?
This is the most your plan will pay toward dental care in a benefit year. Once you reach it, you pay the remainder yourself until your plan renews.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is an amount you pay before your plan starts paying. Not every plan has one, so check your booklet.
What does co-payment mean?
Many plans pay a percentage of a service, such as 80%, and you cover the rest. The percentage can differ for cleanings, fillings and larger treatment like crowns.
What is a fee guide?
A fee guide is a list of suggested fees. Our fees follow the BC Dental Association Suggested Fee Guide. Your plan may reimburse using a different schedule, which can leave a difference for you to pay.
What is direct billing?
With direct billing, we send the claim to your insurer and you pay only the portion your plan does not cover. We direct bill for most plans.
What is a pre-treatment estimate?
For larger treatment, we can request an estimate from your insurer so you know what to expect. Estimates can change with plan rules.
Can I use two plans?
Sometimes, through coordination of benefits. Bring both plans' details and we will help sort out the order.
Still unsure? Read our CDCP questions and answers or ask our team at your next visit.