Choosing a dental insurance carrier should not be based solely on cost. While cost is a large factor in choosing one dental insurance carrier over another, some importance must be placed on the coverage rates for silver amalgam fillings versus tooth-colored, resin composite fillings for tooth restoration. Restorations, or fillings, are generally considered Class 2 procedures for dental insurance purposes, meaning that they fall into the basic spectrum of care where coverage is generally a high percentage of the cost. Silver amalgam fillings will often be covered in their entirety or nearly so, leaving little to no out-of-pocket expense to the dental patient. However, resin composite restorations are usually not completely covered, with the cost only covered up to what the dental insurance provider would normally pay for a silver amalgam filling. The difference between the costs of a silver amalgam versus a resin composite filling could be quite significant, depending upon size of the tooth restoration needed.
Cost Versus Appearance
Silver amalgam is cheaper than resin composite, but resin composites are more attractive. Silver amalgam fillings cost considerably less than resin composites. A tooth-colored, resin composite filling can cost easily cost double or more than the cost of having a silver amalgam filling placed in a decayed tooth. Cavity prone families or individuals should carefully consider the costs associated with both restorations. Depending upon which tooth needs restored, choosing one restoration option over the other can add up to a significant cost for the dental patient. In addition, due to controversy over the mercury used in amalgam, many dental patients are now choosing resin composite when their old silver fillings need replaced.
Resin Composites Becoming More Popular
Dentists are moving toward resin composites for restorations. Another thing to consider is that some dentists prefer to restore teeth with resin composites because of its aesthetic value. While a particular dental insurance plan may offer excellent coverage for silver amalgam restorations, it may be difficult to find a dentist who is willing to restore a tooth with amalgam. Be sure to contact a potential provider to ask if they still use amalgam for restorations before designating a primary dental provider.
When choosing a dental insurance plan, careful consideration should be given to a preference for amalgam versus resin composites for use in tooth restorations. Dental insurance seekers should pay special attention to the rate at which composites are reimbursed, because resin composites can cost significantly more than silver amalgam fillings and many dental providers are steering their practices toward resin composite restorations.
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