Dental Insurance can help protect against the high costs of dental care and promote improved health through proper oral hygiene. As you would expect, early detection is key to maintaining a healthy smile and the prevention of gum disease and tooth decay. Most dental plans provide full coverage (100%) for preventative maintenance, for example at least 2 annual exams, xrays, and cleanings. It also provides substantially discounted costs for basic repairs (80%) and coverage for major work if needed (50%).
Each dental plan will have an annual limit of what the dental policy will pay. Plans with a $1000/yr or $1500/yr annual limit are typical. Higher limits will naturally increase the monthly premium. Dental plans may also include coverage for Orthodontia and/or implants. Coverage for ortho or implants will usually have a separate coverage limit that is considered a “lifetime” limit and in addition to the amount allocated to preventative, basic, or major services.
The most common types of dental insurance plans are Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO) or Dental Health Maintenance Organizations (DHMO). Both types are considered managed care. A PPO offers a larger network of dentists to pick from, however, the DHMO provides the best coverage through a negotiated fee schedule for procedures.
