If you’re covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina (BCBS of SC), you might be wondering if your dental cleanings are included. At Beach Family Dentistry, we want to help you understand your coverage so there are no surprises when it comes time for your visit.
✅ The Short Answer:
Yes—most BCBS of SC dental plans cover routine cleanings, but the level of coverage depends on whether you have a Basic or Plus plan.
🦷 What’s Typically Covered?
Most BCBS dental plans include:
- Two cleanings per year
- Routine exams
- Bitewing X-rays (typically once a year)
These are usually covered at 100%—but only up to the amount allowed by your specific plan.
⚠️ A Closer Look: BCBS Basic vs. Plus Plans
Here’s where it gets a little tricky:
BCBS Basic Plans
There is no provider network.
BCBS pays 100% of a reduced fee set by the insurance company—not the dentist’s actual fee.
This often leaves a significant difference between what is covered and what is charged.
The language used by BCBS can make it sound like services are fully covered when they are not.
BCBS Plus Plans
These plans do include a provider network.
Preventive services are typically covered at 100% of the in-network rate, meaning minimal or no out-of-pocket cost when you visit an in-network provider like Beach Family Dentistry.
🖼️ What About X-rays for New Patients?
For new patients, some initial diagnostic X-rays may not be covered at 100% due to frequency limitations. This means that if you’ve had these X-rays taken at another dental office within the last 3 to 5 years, your insurance may not cover them again until the benefit resets.
You have three options:
- Provide your previous X-rays for our team to review (contact your former provider to request them).
- Have the X-rays retaken at our office, which would be charged at the in-network rate.
- Proceed with the exam without the full set of X-rays—though this is not recommended, as it limits our ability to give a thorough and accurate diagnosis or answer questions about your oral health.
💬 So What Should You Do?
We recommend:
Checking your plan type (Basic vs. Plus)
Calling BCBS of SC or logging into your member portal to confirm your benefits
Contacting our office with your insurance info—we’re happy to verify your coverage and give you an estimate ahead of time
🏖️ Let Us Help You Get the Most from Your Benefits
At Beach Family Dentistry, we understand how confusing insurance can be. Our team is here to walk you through it and make sure you get the care you need—without surprises.
📞 Ready to Schedule?
Call us at 843-903-8800 or schedule your appointment online. Don’t forget to have your insurance card handy—we’ll take care of the rest!
