Whether you currently have dental insurance or are looking into getting dental insurance for you or your family, you need to be aware of the options that are out there and what is best for your family. Not all options or plans are created equal, so thorough research and investigation is needed to find the best solution for your situation. 

We have compiled ten key points about dental coverage and dental insurance you should consider when making your final decision. 

Employer-Based Coverage

While not everyone has access to it, employer-based coverage is usually the most affordable there is in the dental world. Employers can pool their resources and purchase a less costly group plan, which is a benefit to the employees. If your employer has this as an option, make sure to investigate the rates and coverage before you start looking independently. 

Services Coverage

Remember: not all services are covered under all plans. Some dental policies are extremely comprehensive, while others are way more limited. Consider what you need and read the fine print carefully so you know exactly what is and what is not covered. 

Providers + Policies

Your current provider may not accept your dental policy. Each dental office determines which insurances will and will not accept. Make sure to check with your current dentist, whether that is The Complete Dentistry of Orland Park or someone else, and find out if the policy you have or are looking to invest in will be accepted. 

Preventative Care

Preventative dental care is a priority when it comes to selecting your dental insurance policy. Most policies available focus on preventative care—this typically includes things such as routine cleanings, annual exams, and fillings. If you know you or a family member will be needing more extensive dental work, shopping around for the right policy coverage is crucial. 

Deductibles

There will most likely be a deductible tied to your dental plan. Having dental insurance, like health insurance, does not mean you will pay nothing for the services. Be prepared to pay a deductible every time you visit your dentist. Be aware of how much the deductible is and what you will be responsible to pay.  

Limited Dental Care

It is possible that your health insurer will offer some limited dental care as part of your overall health care policy. Some health care policies do include basic dental care, however that care is usually limited. 

Prices Vary

Prices for plans and deductibles are going to vary widely. It is important to shop around for a plan that fits your budget, lifestyle, and dental health needs. Shopping around will get you the best coverage at the most affordable cost. 

Review Your Coverage

It is important to review your coverage. You should always review your policy annually with your insurance representative. This makes sure that the coverage you are paying for is correct and that no changes have been made to your policy. You need to make sure that the policy you have in place continues to meet the needs of you and your family. 

Your Policy + Braces

Just remember, it is likely that your policy will not cover braces. Whether for an adult or a child, braces can be an expensive investment and not all policies will provide coverage or deductions towards braces. If you believe braces to be in your or your child’s future, shop around very carefully for a plan that helps cover that cost. 

Discounted Plans

Another option for your dental health plan is to do a discounted plan instead of full-coverage dental insurance. This option will cost significantly less than full-coverage insurance, but if your needs are minimal when it comes to dental health, this could be a viable option. Discounted plans typically provide savings on cleanings, fillings, and other routine dental work. 

Get serious about your dental plan.

Whether you determine a dental insurance plan is the best for your family or you, choose to budget your dental care into your annual expenses, making time and space for regular cleanings and exams is important for your dental hygiene. We hope these insights will help you make a decision that is right for your family.

If you need any other assistance in determining your dental health care plans, please reach out to The Complete Dentistry of Orland Park so we can help you make the choice that is right for you.