Short Description
Having two dental insurance plans that provide benefits for the same individual, often coordinating benefits to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Long Description
Dual coverage occurs when a patient has two active dental insurance plans that provide coverage for their treatment. This can happen when an individual is covered under their own plan and also as a dependent on a spouse’s or parent’s plan.
When a patient has dual coverage, insurance providers use the Coordination of Benefits (COB) process to determine which plan is primary (pays first) and which is secondary (pays remaining costs). Dual coverage can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses, but it does not mean double benefits or full reimbursement for all services.
Patients with dual coverage should inform their dentist and both insurance companies to ensure claims are processed correctly and they receive the maximum allowable benefits under both plans.