When it comes to your health, it’s always best to trust your instincts. If you feel unsure about a dental diagnosis or treatment plan, you may consider getting a second opinion from another dentist.
Dental benefits
Get the facts about second opinions
What are the advantages?
Second opinions are great for verifying proposed procedures or finding new ways to tackle problems. They’re best for evaluating treatments that require complicated or costly dental care like root canals, implants and more.
Will it be covered by my dental plan?
It might be, but dental plans differ when it comes to second opinions. To find out if your plan will cover the cost, contact your benefits provider before scheduling an appointment. Ask for details on what is and isn’t covered so you can make the best decision for your budget.
Whom should I see?
To find a dentist for a second opinion, try asking friends and family, researching online, calling your local dental society or speaking with someone at a local dental school. Verify that each potential dentist participates in your plan’s network to ensure you’re getting the best value from your dental benefits.
What should I do prior to my appointment?
Ask your current dentist’s office to send existing dental records including your X-rays. This will give your new dental professional the information needed to make an educated evaluation.
Get the most out of your appointment by creating a list of questions to ask. Here are some examples:
• What is your diagnosis?
• What treatments are available and how would each one improve my dental health?
• What are the risks associated with each option?
• Will I need future treatments?
When facing complex dental issues, second opinions can be helpful for managing your care and feeling confident about the decisions you make. Before scheduling an appointment, remember to select an in-network dentist and check your plan materials for details about your coverage.
