What You Need to Know About Dental Insurance
May 29th, 2010 by Bill E. Kidd
Good dental insurance is a lot like most other things in life, there are many policies available, but good ones are difficult to find. If your employer offers dental insurance, you may be wondering if it’s worth the cost and the hassle to sign up. The answer is generally yes, especially if you have children.
Determining the value of Dental Insurance
Even the most basic dental insurance policy provides some coverage for routine procedures, exams, and cleanings, but you must read the details of your policy to make sure you are getting your money’s worth out of your policy. Keep in mind that children are likely to visit the dentist every 3-6 months, and adults at least once a year. Add up the savings your policy offers for these services, and subtract the cost of your premiums to get an idea of how much your dental insurance will save you every year. In most cases, dental insurance helps a family save money in the long run.
Inadequate Dental Insurance Options
If you find yourself with an inadequate dental insurance policy, you do have options. When your employer’s dental plan is truly stingy, it may be in your best interest to opt out of your employer-sponsored plan and look for a private dental insurance policy that better suits your needs. Many health or life insurance companies also offer dental policies. Ask your insurance agent about dental policies, and also ask about special discounts for purchasing bundled insurance policies from the same company. You may be able to save money by buying dental insurance from the same company that covers your life, auto, or homeowner’s insurance as well.
Another option is to forgo the dental insurance and set aside what you would pay in monthly premiums in a special account to help pay for dental services when you need them. This plan works best for single persons and can lead to the temptation to skip a dental appointment over the cost. If you are without dental insurance, be sure to let your dentist’s office know. They may offer special pricing brackets or payment plans for individuals and families without dental insurance.
Getting the most out of your dental insurance, like any other insurance policy, requires reading the fine print. Not all dental insurance policies offer good coverage, and a few are simply not worth the bother, but most employers research the plans available before selecting a decent one for employees. If you get the chance to opt into a good dental insurance plan, it can save you hundreds of dollars every year, especially if a member of your family will need any special procedures or orthodontics.
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