Seeking Advice: Confusion Over Double Billing from Dental Provider
Hi everyone,
I’m relatively new to navigating dental insurance and I’ve run into a confusing situation with my dental provider. Two months after having all of my wisdom teeth removed, I received another bill that was unexpected.
Initially, the dentist quoted me a payment of $724, which included some coverage from insurance while the rest was deemed non-billable. I was informed that if the insurance required anything additional, they would adjust it accordingly. This amount of $724 was also reflected on Principal’s website. However, a few days later, I noticed the amount changed to $863, which seemed odd, but on the day of my surgery in December 2024, they asked for the original $724, and I paid it, thinking everything was settled.
Now, two months later, I’ve received a notice stating that I owe an additional $445. I don’t quite understand this. After reviewing my Explanation of Benefits (EOB), I noticed that some items were removed, which I thought would lower my payment obligation; instead, it appears to have increased.
I’ve attached the screenshots of my documents for reference. Can someone help me make sense of this situation? Is there any chance I could contest this charge, or will I have to forgo purchasing that digital piano I was saving for in order to cover this unexpected bill? 🥲🥲
Here’s the EOB from December: https://imgur.com/a/39ILrPg
And from January, which the dental provider sent me in February: https://imgur.com/a/T66JA4i
It sounds like you’re understandably confused and frustrated by this situation. Here are a few steps you might consider taking to clarify things:
Contact Your Dental Provider: Reach out to your dental office directly. Ask for a detailed explanation of the new bill and why the amount changed. It’s possible there was a billing error or a misunderstanding in how the services were coded.
Review Your EOBs Closely: Examine the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) documents you attached. Look for any changes in the coding, adjustments, or additional charges that could clarify why there’s a new amount owed. Sometimes, insurance will adjust the way they process claims after more information becomes available.
Check Your Insurance Policy: Review your dental insurance policy to understand what procedures are covered, what your deductible is, and if there are any limits on coverage. This can help you understand whether you are liable for the additional charge or if it should be covered.
Ask About Denied Claims: If certain items were removed from the billing and your responsibility increased, ask the dental office if any of those items were denied by the insurance. This could explain the shift in your balance due.
Keep Your Documentation: Hold onto all invoices, EOBs, and any correspondence with your dental provider and insurance company. This documentation will be valuable if you need to escalate the matter.
Consider Filing a Formal Complaint: If you can’t get a satisfactory resolution after speaking with the dental office, you may want to file a complaint with your state’s dental board or your insurance provider.
Budget for the Unexpected: While it’s disappointing to have an unexpected bill come up, it might be wise to set aside some money for it, just in case the dental provider maintains their position.
Regarding the digital piano, it might be a good idea to put that purchase on hold until you have clarity on your dental bills. It’s tough, but better to be safe and know exactly what you’re responsible for financially.
Stay persistent, and good luck!