When buying and using a dental insurance plan it is important to understand who pays what to whom.  Dental insurance plans can be categorized into three types based on the compensation and treatment provided.

Take a look at a Dental PPO Insurance Plan.  One of the benefits of choosing a plan provider (a dentist that is in the plan network or providers) is that often times they will file the claim to the insurance company and then bill you any unpaid balances. Allowing for you to have dental services render but not paying on the bill until the insurance company pays their part. Note: you will still need to confirm with the dental office their policy on payment

Where as if you go out side the plan network of provider the dentist may in fact charge you for the total cost making you wait for a refund from your insurance company.

The other possible payment option is based on your policy coverage’s the dental office may only bill you for your co-pay and bill the insurance company.  Then charge or refund you depending on what the insurance paid out.

Don’t just assume you are going to receive dental services without paying the dental office for services render, just because you have an insurance plan.