That’s a really hard question to answer, but based on my 25 years of experience of working in the dental field, the plan that the patient gets the most out of is a good basic one.
1) Q: What is a basic plan?
A: This is one that usually offers the following services: examination and x- rays, cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, and gum treatments.
Having a good basic plan means that we would be able to complete Phase One of treatment for the patient.
2) Q: What is Phase One?
A: We encourage our patients to at least complete phase one of treatment.
Phase one means that we complete the treatment outlined in the basic plan. This would enable the patient to have the following treatment:
- A thorough and complete dental examination, in which we check the teeth and underlying gums.
- Have all of their necessary fillings done. This includes treating teeth with decay or any unacceptable fillings that already exist in the mouth.
- Remove any teeth that can’t be saved i.e. have a poor prognosis.
- Have their teeth cleaned and enable them to return for three, four or six month cleanings, depending on how often their teeth need to be cleaned.
- Gum treatments: This includes an evaluation of your gums and any possible procedures that may be necessary to improve the state of them.
- Any root canal treatments that may be necessary.
After the Basic Treatment is completed, there is the Major Treatment…and for this it is good to have a major component to the insurance plan.
3) Q: What is Major Coverage?
A: As previously mentioned, we want our patients to at least follow through with the phase one procedures mentioned above.
After this, it is always encouraged to get any major work completed as well.
Major work includes:
- Crowns: To provide protection to a tooth with a large filling or a tooth that has had a root canal; or both.
- Fixed Bridges: To replace a missing tooth or teeth (fill in gaps).
- Removable Dentures: To replace a span of missing teeth.
- Implants: A great solution to replace a single or multiple missing teeth.
- Orthodontics: To properly align the teeth and improve the patients over all aesthetics.
Do you have questions regarding your dental insurance plan? Please feel free to ask us by calling (905) 791-3867 or e-mail us to learn more. It’s your insurance…make sure you’re getting the most out of your dental insurance plan.