Delta Dental Mouth Guard Coverage: Understanding Your Options
Mouth guards are an essential piece of equipment for athletes, especially those involved in contact sports such as football, basketball, and hockey. Not only do they protect the teeth and gums from injuries, but they also help prevent concussions and other head trauma. However, purchasing a mouth guard can be costly, and many individuals may wonder about their Delta Dental insurance coverage for these protective devices. In this article, we will explore Delta Dental mouth guard coverage and help you understand your options.
What is Delta Dental?
Delta Dental is one of the largest dental insurance companies in the United States, providing coverage to millions of individuals and families. The company offers various dental plans, including PPO, HMO, and indemnity plans, which may offer different levels of coverage for mouth guards.
Understanding Delta Dental Mouth Guard Coverage
The coverage provided by Delta Dental for mouth guards varies depending on the specific plan and the type of mouth guard. Here are some key points to consider:
1.
Types of Mouth Guards Covered:
– Custom-fitted mouth guards: These are typically made by a dental professional and are considered the most effective in protecting teeth and gums.
– Boil-and-bite mouth guards: These mouth guards are pre-formed and can be customized to fit the user’s mouth by boiling and biting down on them.
– Stock mouth guards: These are pre-formed and come in different sizes, making them the least expensive option but also the least effective.
2.
Coverage Amounts:
– Delta Dental plans may cover a percentage of the cost of custom-fitted or boil-and-bite mouth guards, while stock mouth guards may not be covered at all.
– Some plans may have a maximum coverage amount per year, which can range from $50 to $500 or more.
3.
Eligibility:
– Coverage for mouth guards is often available for individuals under the age of 18, as they are more susceptible to dental injuries.
– Some plans may require a dental exam or approval from a dentist before covering the cost of a mouth guard.
How to Check Your Delta Dental Coverage
To determine whether your Delta Dental plan covers mouth guards and the specifics of the coverage, follow these steps:
1.
Review Your Insurance Plan:
– Carefully read your Delta Dental insurance policy or contact customer service to understand the details of your coverage.
2.
Check the Insurance Website:
– Visit the Delta Dental website and search for information regarding mouth guard coverage. The website may provide a list of covered services and the associated costs.
3.
Consult Your Dentist:
– Discuss your Delta Dental coverage with your dentist, who can provide guidance on the best type of mouth guard for you and how to navigate the insurance process.
Conclusion
Delta Dental mouth guard coverage can help alleviate the financial burden of purchasing a protective device for athletes. By understanding the types of mouth guards covered, the coverage amounts, and eligibility requirements, you can make an informed decision about your dental protection. Always consult your insurance provider and dentist for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your Delta Dental coverage for mouth guards.
