Understanding pre-treatment estimates

Posted on September 8, 2020 in Dental benefit information

When planning for any dental treatment, it’s important to know the costs involved – understanding what is covered by your dental carrier and what you may owe your dentist. Delta Dental of Illinois offers a complimentary pre-treatment estimate for its members so they have an idea of how much a specific dental procedure will cost ahead of time. This helps both you and your dentist make the right decision for you regarding your treatment options.

How to obtain a pre-treatment estimate

Getting a pre-estimate is easy. The process starts with contacting your dentist, who will then submit a proposed treatment plan and supporting X-rays and documents to Delta Dental of Illinois. Once Delta Dental of Illinois reviews the documentation sent by your dentist and your benefits, you’ll receive an estimate which outlines your out-of-pocket costs. The estimate is based on the type of dental plan you have, your eligibility and current plan benefits and the amount remaining in your annual maximum.

Keep in mind, a pre-treatment estimate is not a guarantee of payment and it may not include additional coverage that may apply. Estimates are normally returned in a matter of days, but more complex treatments can take longer to prepare.

Pre-treatment estimate benefits

Pre-treatment estimates are especially beneficial when budgeting more extensive treatments, such as crowns, wisdom tooth extractions, bridges, dentures or periodontal surgery. They can also help determine how you and your dentist decide to proceed with a treatment. Based on what your dental plan covers, your dentist may be able to recommend alternate treatments that will better fit your budget.

The next time you need a dental procedure, enjoy peace of mind by requesting a free pre-treatment estimate. Talk with your dentist at your next appointment to learn more.