Dental Plans

Carney Cargill, Inc.
375 NE Ericksen Avenue
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Phone: 206-842-8987 In Washington State, the most comprehensive dental coverage is available through employer-sponsored group plans. There are a few managed care individual health plans that offer limited dental coverage as a rider. While some group carriers offer a dental rider on their health insurance plans, most insurance companies require a minimum of five employees. Freestanding dental plans generally require 10 employees or more. However, membership in the Bainbridge Island Chamber of Commerce entitles employer-sponsored groups as small as two non-related employees access to excellent dental insurance.

Good insurance coverage for dental expenses is based on prevention and helps patients establish and maintain good oral health. Typically, a good plan covers three levels of care:

Class I procedures are preventative and diagnostic, such as periodic exams, x-rays, cleaning, and sealants for children. These procedures are usually covered by the insurance carrier at 80% or 100%.
Class II procedures are called "basic procedures," and include fillings, extractions, and root canal treatment. These procedures are generally covered after a small deductible at 70% or 80%.
Class III procedures are called "major procedures," and include dentures and crowns. These treatments are usually covered at 50% and on some plans may have a separate waiting period.

Most dental plans have a benefit period of one year which is usually, but not always, the calendar year. Also, dental plans have an annual dollar maximum, which is the maximum dollar amount that the plan will pay toward dental expenses during the benefit period. The patient is personally responsible for paying costs above the maximum. In addition, most plans have an annual deductible, typically $25 or $50 per person, usually only for Classes II and III. If you are planning to have extensive dental work done, we recommend (and some plans require) that you ask your dentist to submit a request for an estimate called a "predetermination of benefits." This allows you to know in advance exactly what procedures are covered, the amount the carrier will pay, and the costs that are your responsibility.

To receive more information on coverage and costs, please click on "Request a Quote." If you are an employee with questions about your plan, please click on "Contact Us." Or call us at (206) 842-8987 for more information.