- PremiumThe amount you (or your employer) pay each month to keep the plan active, whether or not you use it.
- DeductibleA set amount you pay out of pocket each year before the plan starts paying its share, often waived for preventive visits.
- Annual maximumThe most the plan will pay toward your care in a year — commonly $1,000 to $2,000. Once you reach it, you pay the rest yourself.
- Preventive coverageCleanings, exams, and routine X-rays are often covered at or near 100% when you stay in network.
- Network participationPlans pay more when you see a dentist who is contracted with that plan's network. Participation can differ between a company's plan types.
- Copay & coinsuranceYour share of the cost for a covered service — a flat copay, or a percentage (coinsurance) such as 20% of a filling or 50% of a crown.
- Treatment estimateBefore major treatment, our office can submit a pre-treatment estimate so you know your expected portion in advance.
Want to see costs without insurance in the picture? Our fee schedule lists standard prices, and our membership plan is a flat-fee alternative.