02/12/2026
🦷 Common Misconception About “Out-of-Network” Dental Insurance
Many patients hear out-of-network and immediately think:❌ “My insurance won’t pay anything.”❌ “I can’t go there.”❌ “It will cost double.”
That’s usually not true.
Here’s what out-of-network really means:
✅ You can still visit the dentist of your choice✅ Most plans still pay a portion of the cost✅ You’re not limited to a small provider list✅ You may only be responsible for the difference between the office fee and the insurance allowance
In many cases, the total difference is smaller than people expect — and you get to choose the provider you trust and feel comfortable with.
Insurance is there to help pay for care — not choose your dentist for you.
If you’re unsure about your benefits, ask your dental office to review your coverage and estimate your portion before treatment. Transparency matters!