Pre-Treatment Estimate: What is it? How do I get one?

A pre-treatment estimate will give you an idea of what a procedure may cost, how much your insurance may cover, and any out-of-pocket expenses you might be responsible for paying.

To get an estimate, simply tell your dentist you’d like a cost estimate for the procedure they are recommending. Your dentist will contact us and request a “Confirmation of Treatment and Cost” or a COTC.

This will allow you and your dentist to discuss treatment options that are within your budget, while also getting the most out of your dental benefits.

You can ask your dentist for a pre-treatment estimate at any time, but there are a few instances where requesting one may be beneficial:

• If your dentist is recommending and extensive treatment plan or procedure
• If you’re unsure if a recommended procedure is covered by your dental insurance
• If you’re dentist is recommending a covered procedure, but you want to know how much you will be expected to pay out-of-pocket

If your dentist has access to our Provider Portal, they may be able to offer you a cost estimate right away. If they don’t, you will receive a notification in your MySmile account when the information is ready. Or you will receive your pre-treatment estimate in the mail.

A pre-treatment estimate is good for 90 days* from the time you receive it. After that, you’ll have to ask your dentist for another one to ensure you’re getting the most accurate and up-to-date information.

See below for an example of you and your dentist will receive from us: