Principal Dental Provider in Hillsboro, OR – East Wind Dental Care
East Wind Dental Care is proud to accept Principal dental insurance, serving patients in Hillsboro and the surrounding Portland metro area. We help Principal members maximize their benefits while providing exceptional, patient-centered dental care.
What’s Covered by Principal Dental Insurance?
Principal dental plans typically offer three tiers of coverage:
- Preventive Services (100% Coverage, No Deductible): Routine dental exams (twice yearly), prophylaxis cleanings, fluoride treatments for children under 19, dental X-rays (bitewing, panoramic, periapical), oral evaluations, sealants for children
- Basic Procedures (80% Coverage After Deductible): Amalgam and composite fillings, simple extractions, emergency dental treatment, non-surgical periodontal therapy (scaling and root planing), recement crowns or bridges, space maintainers
- Major Procedures (50% Coverage After Deductible): Crowns (all types), bridges (fixed and removable), complete and partial dentures, root canal therapy, surgical extractions, periodontal surgery, implants (if covered by plan)
Coverage levels vary depending on your specific Principal plan. We’ll verify your exact benefits before beginning treatment.
How to Maximize Your Principal Dental Benefits
- Schedule Two Annual Cleanings: Principal covers two preventive visits per year at 100% with no deductible. Regular cleanings prevent costly dental problems.
- Know Your Plan Details: Understanding your specific Principal plan (network requirements, coverage levels, limitations) helps you make informed decisions about your care.
- Track Your Annual Maximum: Most Principal plans have an annual maximum benefit (typically $1,000-$2,000). Keep track of your usage throughout the year.
- Use Benefits Before They Expire: Dental benefits don’t roll over. Schedule needed treatment before December 31st to avoid losing unused benefits.
- Request Pre-Determination: For major procedures, we can submit treatment plans to Principal for pre-approval, providing clear cost estimates before treatment.
- Meet Your Deductible Strategically: If you need multiple treatments, scheduling them together helps you meet your deductible once and maximize coverage.
- Consider Treatment Timing: If you’re near your annual maximum, split remaining treatment into the next benefit year to maximize coverage.
- Stay In-Network: As a Principal provider, we offer contracted rates that significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Common Procedures and Principal Coverage
| Procedure | Principal Coverage | Your Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Exam | 100% | $0 |
| Prophylaxis Cleaning | 100% | $0 |
| Fluoride Treatment | 100% (under 19) | $0 |
| Bitewing X-rays | 100% | $0 |
| Composite Filling | 80% | 20% + deductible |
| Root Canal (molar) | 50% | 50% + deductible |
| Porcelain Crown | 50% | 50% + deductible |
| 3-Unit Bridge | 50% | 50% + deductible |
| Complete Denture | 50% | 50% + deductible |
Tips for Principal Dental Patients
- Verify Benefits Before Treatment: Call us at (503) 648-8971, and we’ll contact Principal to verify your coverage, deductible status, and remaining annual maximum.
- Bring Your Insurance Card: Always bring your Principal dental insurance card and valid photo ID to every appointment.
- Understand Frequency Limitations: Some procedures have frequency limits (e.g., cleanings every six months, X-rays annually). We’ll ensure you stay within covered timeframes.
- Ask About Treatment Options: If cost is a concern, discuss alternative treatment approaches with our dentists that may be more budget-friendly.
- Review Your EOB Carefully: After treatment, review your Explanation of Benefits from Principal to verify claim processing.
- Schedule Preventive Visits Consistently: Regular preventive care catches problems early, preventing expensive major procedures.
- Leverage HSA/FSA Accounts: Use health savings or flexible spending accounts to pay for out-of-pocket expenses with pre-tax dollars.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- Principal dental insurance card (with member ID and group number)
- Valid photo identification
- Complete list of current medications and supplements
- Medical history updates, including allergies and health conditions
- Payment method for copays, deductibles, or non-covered services
- Previous dental records (if new to our practice)
Frequently Asked Questions About Principal Dental
Q: Does East Wind Dental Care accept Principal dental insurance?
A: Yes! We are a participating provider with Principal and accept their dental insurance plans.
Q: How many cleanings does Principal cover per year?
A: Most Principal plans cover two routine cleanings per calendar year at 100% with no deductible.
Q: What is the typical deductible for Principal plans?
A: Deductibles commonly range from $50-$100 per person per year. Preventive services are usually deductible-free.
Q: Does Principal cover dental implants?
A: Coverage for implants varies by plan. Many Principal plans offer 50% coverage for implants, while others may exclude them. We’ll verify your specific benefits.
Q: Will you file my Principal claim?
A: Yes! We file all insurance claims electronically on your behalf and handle all communication with Principal.
Q: How long does Principal take to process claims?
A: Electronic claims are typically processed within 10-14 business days. You’ll receive an Explanation of Benefits from Principal.
Q: What if I need treatment beyond my annual maximum?
A: We offer flexible payment plans and accept CareCredit financing to make dental care affordable even after exhausting your insurance benefits.
Q: Can I see specialists with my Principal plan?
A: Most Principal plans don’t require specialist referrals. We can help coordinate specialist care when necessary.
Schedule with Your Principal Benefits Today
Your oral health is essential to your overall wellness. At East Wind Dental Care, we make using your Principal dental benefits simple and straightforward. Our experienced team will verify your coverage, maximize your benefits, and provide clear, transparent pricing.
Don’t let your benefits go unused! Call (503) 648-8971 or book online to schedule your appointment today.
East Wind Dental Care – Your trusted Principal dental provider in Hillsboro, Oregon.
Contact Us Today
Have questions or ready to schedule? Contact East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro, OR.
Written by Dr. Merat Ostovar, DDS
Doctor of Dental Surgery | 15+ Years Experience
Aloha Modern Dentistry | Beaverton, Oregon
Last updated: November 28, 2025