Learn about root canal treatment, how it’s covered by Maryland Healthy Smiles, and the preauthorization process for both the procedure and follow-up care.
Is Root Canal Covered by MD Healthy Smiles?
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, you may be wondering about the process and whether it’s covered by Maryland Healthy Smiles. Root canal treatment (RCT) is a common procedure used to save a tooth that has become infected or damaged. For those insured through Maryland Healthy Smiles, the good news is that this procedure is typically covered, but there are a few important things to know about the process and insurance approval.
What is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or damage in the pulp of the tooth. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected due to decay or injury, it can cause severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity.
During a root canal, the dentist will remove the infected pulp, clean and disinfect the inside of the tooth, and then fill it to prevent further infection. After the root canal is completed, the tooth will typically need a crown to provide additional strength and protection.
Is a Root Canal Covered by Maryland Healthy Smiles?
In most cases, Maryland Healthy Smiles covers root canal treatment. However, there are some important steps that need to be followed to ensure coverage.
Preauthorization is Required: Before we can begin the root canal, we must obtain preauthorization from your insurance company. This is to ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and covered by your plan. Our team will handle this process for you, but it’s important to note that treatment cannot begin until the preauthorization is approved.
Post-Treatment Care: After the root canal is completed, the tooth will need a crown and buildup to restore its full function. This is a two-step process: first, we place a buildup to provide a foundation for the crown, and then we place the crown itself. Just like the root canal, these follow-up procedures also require preauthorization from the insurance company.
When Is a Root Canal Not Covered?
While root canals are typically covered by Maryland Healthy Smiles, there are situations where the procedure may not be approved. If the tooth is deemed “non-restorable”—meaning it cannot be saved with a root canal and crown—then the insurance may not cover the procedure. In these cases, an extraction might be recommended instead.
What Happens Next?
If you’ve been told you need a root canal, don’t worry—our team is here to guide you through the entire process. We will work with your insurance company to get the necessary preauthorization for the procedure and any follow-up care, such as the crown. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the treatment you need to restore your smile and relieve any pain or discomfort.
In conclusion, if you’ve been told you need a root canal, it’s important to address the issue quickly to avoid further complications. Root canal treatment is typically covered by Maryland Healthy Smiles, as long as the tooth can be restored. Our team in Laurel, MD is here to guide you through every step of the process, from preauthorization to follow-up care like crowns and buildups. Don’t let tooth pain disrupt your life—contact us today to schedule your consultation and ensure you receive the treatment you need for a healthy, pain-free smile.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been advised that you need a root canal, contact our office in Laurel, MD today to schedule a consultation. We accept Maryland Healthy Smiles insurance and will help you navigate the approval process for your root canal treatment. Let us help you get back to a pain-free, healthy smile!
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