Insurance Problems•3 min read

Why Doesn't Insurance Prevent Problems?

The Problem: The 'Cleanings Only' Mindset

Most plans cover two cleanings a year at 100%. We're trained to think that if we go to those two appointments, we're 'preventing' problems. But insurance rarely covers the tools needed for true daily prevention like high-quality electric toothbrushes, specialized rinses, or more frequent monitoring.

Why This Backfires

You follow the rules, go twice a year, and still end up with a cavity. It feels unfair. You thought you were covered for prevention, but you were only covered for detection. The insurance model waits for you to get sick (get a cavity) before it pays to fix it, rather than helping you stay well.

The Simple Truth: Prevention Requires Insight

True prevention happens in the 363 days a year you aren't at the dentist. It requires knowing your specific risk areas and monitoring them. Insurance pays for the 30-minute visit, not the daily habit or the early detection technology that could actually stop the disease.

What Should Happen Instead

You should monitor your health year-round. You need a feedback loop that tells you, 'Hey, you're missing this spot when you brush,' or 'That gum area looks inflamed.' Prevention should be active and continuous, not just a bi-annual event.

How DentaSmart Helps

DentaSmart supports continuous awareness. We fill the gap that insurance leaves wide open. Our AI helps you monitor your oral health at home, between visits. We give you the feedback and tools to actually prevent problems, turning 'dental coverage' into true 'dental care.'

More insights to help you understand your oral health.

Insurance Problems3 min read

Why Does Dental Insurance Feel Misleading?

You pay your premiums every month, so you assume you're covered. Then you go to the dentist, get a treatment plan, and find out your insurance pays... almost nothing. Or worse, you get a bill weeks later for a procedure you thought was '100% covered.' It feels like a bait-and-switch.

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Insurance Problems3 min read

Why Do Annual Maximums Run Out So Fast?

You need a crown and a root canal. The total is $2,500. Your insurance says, 'Sorry, your annual maximum is $1,500.' You're responsible for the rest. In 1970, the average dental maximum was $1,000. Today, it's... still about $1,500. The cost of care has skyrocketed, but the coverage cap has stayed frozen in time.

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Insurance Problems3 min read

Why Are Waiting Periods Risky?

You sign up for a new dental plan because you have a toothache. You go to the dentist, only to be told, 'Your plan has a 6-month waiting period for major work.' You can't get the crown you need unless you pay full price. So, you wait. And while you wait, the tooth gets worse.