Many people don’t like to go to the dentist because of the costs associated and because they’re fearful. But failing to maintain good oral health can have negative consequences on overall health. Dental insurance can help and save you money at the same time, but only if you have the right plan.
The average dental insurance premium ranges from $14 to about $30 per month. [1] Compare that with your typical dental emergency and you’ll realize dental insurance pays off. So, if you’re ready to get insured, here are four steps you need to take.
Consider Group Coverage
Group coverage is a single policy issued to a group, and dental coverage is usually a part of a general health plan. Group coverage is typically part of an employer program. Advantages of group coverage include:
–Flexibility. With group coverage, you often get a preferred provider organization product (PPO) that lets you pick any licensed dentist.
-Prearranged benefits. Group coverage saves you the trouble of having to read through confusing insurance contracts. You get fewer choices and all you have to do is check a box.
–Lower cost. Group coverage offers lower rates since the insuring company has less risk as the policy is spread over many different people. Moreover, rates are based on average age and gender, and physical exams or detailed questionnaires are uncommon.
–Guaranteed coverage. Serious dental issues are covered with group coverage for as long as you work, and sometimes for a period after you change or lose your job.
–Dental coverage for dependants. Group policies often cover children and spouses, as well as dependants up to 26 years of age. Even unmarried partners can qualify for benefits sometimes under the Affordable Care Act. [2]
Look Up Individual Policies
Individual dental insurance policies can cover you or your family and they let you choose the coverage, company, and plan, as well as create custom plans.
According to BankRate.com, [3] an average individual policy costs $350 per year, and these policies are often more expensive than group coverage or employer-sponsored plans. Individual dental insurance plans still cover you even if you don’t have a job, and many of them use PPO programs which are the most affordable option. Others use HMOs (Health Maintenance Organization) which limit your choice in doctors and require approval for anything but regular checkups.
Check the Dentist List in Your Network
Before choosing a dental plan or provider, check if the dentist you want is in-network for a specific plan, or you’ll have to pay out of pocket. Check even when booking, because dentists will accept appointments even if they’re not in-network.
Figure out What a Policy Covers
Don’t rush reading the fine print of a potential insurance plan, and always consider your current needs. Most dental policies offer seven areas of care:
– Preventive services like cleaning and regular checkups
– Restorative services such as crowns and fillings
– Endodontics like root canals
– Minor oral surgery
– Orthodontics with a purchased ride
– Periodontics like infection and scaling management
– Prosthodontics such as bridges and dentures
Conclusion
Having dental health coverage is critical. But before signing on the dotted line, check to see whether a policy covers your needs. The best way to do this is to research online and compare multiple options.
[1] https://www.nadp.org/Dental_Benefits_Basics/Dental_BB_8.aspx
[2] https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/faqs/young-adult-and-aca
[3] https://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/dental-insurance-1.aspx