When it comes to insurance, many people often overlook the value and importance of dental
coverage. Not a lot of people think it's necessary to even have this coverage just so long as they
take care of their teeth. (click to learn more about dentistry) The tough thing about dental health is that like any other physical feature, there is no telling when an unwanted condition will come about. If you're still not convinced on why
you should invest in this insurance, then there are a couple more things you should know.
Is buying dental insurance worth it?
Those with a good plan for dental insurance (see how we handle dental insurance) will usually have what's known as the 100-80-50 coverage. This simply means the coverage will pay for 100% of costs on routine diagnostic and
preventative care treatments. Annual checkups, cleanings, and 80% of fillings like root canals and
basic cavities are covered. 50% of charges on bridges, crowns, and major teeth conditions will also
be covered by your dental insurance. The cost of dental work without insurance is also significantly
higher than without coverage. Many practices also are not open to offering payment plans without insurance.
The likelihood of dental problems does not completely decrease just because you take good care of
your oral health on your own. Certain dental factors require routine check-ups and monitoring to
take care of. Even the cleanest of people will have an occasional cavity at least once in their
lifetime. Without the care of a dentist, letting a cavity just be can lead to serious health issues that
can lead to internal problems with time.
How much coverage you need all varies on the type of services you wish to get done regularly.
Some coverages in the area start as low as $13 a month and does not require any waiting periods
to start. Many dental policies emphasize the value of prevention when it comes to dental work. This
coverage will cover two cleanings, x-ray work, and fluoride treatment with just tiny added fees for
if you want to add your children or partner in the coverage. With dental insurance, you will have a
much less chance of having to get any major dental work done in the future.
A single dental procedure done without insurance can really create a huge dent in your savings.
Many employers also offer basic coverage for their employees that only charge an annual premium
that's normally less expensive than getting it on your own means. Personal premium coverages
cost around $350 a year on average, while the one you can attain from your employer can go as
low as $230 annually. Obviously, the care that goes beyond routine check-ups, the annual
expenses can go up to over $1,000.
There are 3 major plan options that you can choose from HMO, PPO, and indemnity plans.
Dental insurance comes in three varieties: PPO, HMO, and indemnity plans. The most popular plan
which is PPO (preferred provider organization) allows for you to see your dentist outside of the
preferred network. The rate charges are usually reduced however when you do go to an in-network
dentist. HMO (health maintenance organization) on the other hand is an option that simply restricts
you to one limited dental network. The last option known as the indemnity plan enables you to see
all types of dentists, but costs are generally higher.
Regardless of the dental insurance plan, you choose to get, as long as you have the coverage you can
have peace of mind in case of dental emergencies. There is absolutely nothing wrong with being
prepared in fact it is advised by all medical fields. Insurance will simply equip you for the unknown
of life that happens without your control.
Next Up: How much is the average visit to the dentist?
