Dental Insurance vs. Discount Dental Plans

When it comes to dental care, individuals know the importance of a good dental insurance coverage plan. There are basically two types of dental plans available. The first is the more traditional dental insurance paid for through monthly, quarterly or semi-annual premiums. The second is basically a plan that offers discounted dental procedures for an annual fee. The problem with the second type is that out-of-pocket expenses are often larger than the discounted allowance for the dental procedure required. The question of whether your health insurance policy will cover dental insurance depends on several factors like:

1. Is the policy provided by an employer?

2. Will the health insurance provider allow an individual employee covered by an employer’s plan to pick up an individual dental option?

3. Does the health insurance provider offer dental for those not covered under an employer’s plan?

These are important questions to ask your provider. In most cases, an HMO or health insurance provider may offer dental insurance. Some providers will even consider this on an individual basis. However, it’s important to remember that not all health insurance providers will add dental insurance even if it’s paid for separately by the individual. Others offer a “rider” that doesn’t in any way interfere with the original health insurance policy. The rider can then be separated from the original policy and activated in a way that allows dental insurance as a separate part of coverage.

The Cost of A Dental Insurance Rider

Depending on each health insurance provider’s rates, the cost of a dental insurance rider can range from $350 to $650 annually for single coverage. When you consider the cost of dental procedures, these rates may still be well worth the cost. That’s likely the defining point for most people considering a dental insurance plan. The easiest way to assess the value of a policy is to project the cost of the dental work to be performed for a 12-month period of time. Contact your particular health insurance provider of your current policy. They provide specific information on dental insurance coverage.