Dental Insurance & Costs – Dental Q&A
Does The Smile Method accept Delta Dental insurance?
Yes. The Smile Method is in-network with Delta Dental and other major dental insurance plans. Patients with Delta Dental coverage can use their benefits for exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, and other covered services at our Gahanna location. Call our office to confirm your specific plan's participation status.
Do you see patients with Medicaid dental coverage?
Contact The Smile Method directly to ask about current Medicaid participation in Ohio. Medicaid dental coverage for adults in Ohio has specific limitations on covered services and accepted providers. Our team can review your coverage and help you understand what is included before your visit.
How much do affordable braces cost in Gahanna, Ohio?
Braces in the Gahanna and Columbus, Ohio area typically range from $3,500 to $7,000 depending on the treatment type and case complexity. Traditional metal braces are usually the most affordable option. Most orthodontic practices, including The Smile Method, offer interest-free payment plans to spread cost over the treatment period.
What does dental insurance typically cover?
Most dental insurance plans follow a 100-80-50 structure: preventive services (exams, cleanings, X-rays) are covered at 100%, basic restorative services (fillings, simple extractions) at 80%, and major restorative services (crowns, bridges, root canals) at 50% — all after the deductible. Annual maximums typically range from $1,000 to $2,000.
What if I don't have dental insurance?
If you do not have dental insurance, you still have options. The Smile Method offers an in-house dental membership plan that covers preventive care and provides discounts on other treatments for a flat annual fee. We also offer financing through third-party lenders so you can spread treatment costs over monthly payments.
Does dental insurance cover dental implants?
Most standard dental insurance plans do not cover dental implants, or they may cover a small portion of the crown placed on top of the implant. A growing number of premium dental plans are beginning to offer partial implant coverage. Check your specific policy's 'missing tooth clause' and major restorative benefit.
Can I use an HSA or FSA for dental expenses?
Yes. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) can be used for most dental expenses, including exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, dentures, and orthodontia. Cosmetic-only procedures like whitening or veneers for aesthetic purposes are typically not FSA/HSA eligible.
Why are dental procedures so expensive without insurance?
Dental procedures have significant costs behind them: specialized training, expensive equipment, dental materials, lab fees for crowns and bridges, staff salaries, and office overhead. A porcelain crown, for example, requires a custom lab fabrication that costs hundreds of dollars alone. Without insurance to offset these costs, patients pay the full fee.
Does dental insurance have a waiting period for major work?
Many dental insurance plans impose waiting periods of 6 to 12 months before covering major restorative services like crowns, root canals, and bridges. Preventive services like cleanings and X-rays are typically available from day one. Some plans also exclude treatment for conditions that existed before coverage began.
Does The Smile Method offer payment plans for dental work?
Yes. The Smile Method offers in-house financing and works with third-party financing companies so patients can pay for dental treatment in monthly installments. Options include interest-free plans for qualified patients. We also offer an in-house dental savings plan for patients without insurance.