Choosing the right dental insurance is important, but it isn’t an easy task. You have to take into consideration that even if your gums and teeth are completely healthy right now, unexpected problems can arise at any time in the future. That means that you may eventually have hefty bills if you need certain dental procedures done. With that said, you have to consider plenty of factors when you choose dental insurance.
First, think of what kind of dental insurance you need. If you have already experienced dental problems like gum disease or the need for braces, you might want to get a more inclusive plan. The same can be said if you have kids you want to include on your plan.
Research dental insurance plans that are available in your area. If you already have a dentist, you might want to contact his or her office and inquire about the types of insurance accepted there. Compare a few different policies so that you can decide on the one that offers the best value for your money based on your dental needs.
Consider what the monthly premium you’re required to pay amounts to. You want to ensure that this charge fits within your monthly budget so that you aren’t spending past your means. Many plans also cover a wide array of treatments, so you should explore that as well. Does the plan cover anything beyond regular six month checkups, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, root canals, root planing for gum disease and other procedures?
Many dental insurance plans don’t cover certain procedures, especially those that are cosmetic in nature. For instance, you may be able to get regular metallic braces if you need to straighten your teeth, but Invisalign is usually not covered by insurance. In addition, procedures like dental implants may be covered but require a considerable out of pocket charge for which you are responsible.
Deductibles and maximum annual limits must be considered as well when choosing a dental insurance plan. Most plans have a cap of around $1,000 to $1,500 per year for dental related costs. Beyond that amount, you are responsible for any additional costs. You will also have to meet your deductible before the insurance kicks in to cover your dental care. Most dental plan deductibles are between $25 and $50 per person, depending on the policy.
Of course, the choice of dentist is extremely important as well. You will want to have a dentist who is in plan of the insurance policy you select. That means that if your current dentist does not take the insurance, you will have to pay more to see him or her because that would mean the dentist is out of network.