{"id":168,"date":"2026-03-10T16:43:42","date_gmt":"2026-03-10T16:43:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.onedentalnewjersey.com\/blog\/?p=168"},"modified":"2026-03-24T21:29:49","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T21:29:49","slug":"waiting-period-dental-insurance-what-is-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.onedentalnewjersey.com\/blog\/2026\/03\/10\/waiting-period-dental-insurance-what-is-it\/","title":{"rendered":"Waiting Periods: Why Do Some Dental Insurance Companies Include Them?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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You\u2019re reviewing your dental insurance<\/a> plan when suddenly you come across terminology you don\u2019t recognize. What is a \u201cwaiting period?\u201d When enrolling, you were under the impression that you had immediate access to your benefits as long as you paid your monthly premium. But now, you must wait? Don\u2019t let confusion cause you distress. Learn what waiting periods are all about and why they\u2019re included in certain plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What is a Waiting Period?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you are a new member who recently enrolled in a dental insurance plan, you may find there is a waiting period that is required. This is when certain services (i.e., restorative treatments and complex care) may not be covered for a specified period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some waiting periods may only last a few months, while others can extend to a full year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Services Are Included & Not Included?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Generally, preventive dental services, such as regular checkups and cleanings, are not included in your waiting period. You are covered right away, especially since they are designed to prevent more serious oral health issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you recently enrolled and learn that you need a dental filling, dental crown, or tooth extraction, you will need to wait. Other similar services that fall under the necessary waiting period include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n