The Difference Between Insurance and Discount Dental Plans

“distinct differences you should be aware of before committing”

Modern medicine has removed a lot of the fear attached to dental visits. The use of novocaine and nitrous oxide makes root canals, fillings, extractions, and the placement of dental crowns virtually pain-free. While dental pain may be a non-issue, your bill may be the cause of several headaches. You could alleviate this by deciding not to pay cash and choosing dental insurance, or discount dental plans. Like insurance, discount dental plans can help save thousands and dental costs. However, there are distinct differences you should be aware of before committing to a plan of action. Here’s a look at some of theses variations.

Discount Dental Plans

Discount dental plans are ideal if you are looking for discounts on dental procedures. Dental plans are easier to use than insurances, as there is no waiting period, deductibles, or annual limitations. These are much cheaper than insurance and could cost you just $100 per annum, or $150 per family.

Fees are straightforward here and you could get a discount of between 10%-60% on each dental visit. These dental plans are a lot similar to joining a club membership where you get discounts. There’s also no need for you to fill out insurance claim forms every time you visit the dentist. Simply show them your card after your procedure to receive your savings. You also do not need anyone to co-sign for you when taking out discount dental plans.

You could sign up for a discount dental plan in conjunction with dental insurance. This is ideal if you’d be needing extensive dental work where the costs would exceed your yearly benefit limit. Dental plans could save you more than the cost you spend on your membership fee.

Be sure to find out which dentists in your area subscribe to the dental plan network attached to your membership. Many people are only comfortable with their existing dentist. If you’re one of them, ask if they accept dental plans. Doing your research beforehand is always a must. You don’t want to sit in the waiting room in the middle of having a crown placed, to discover your dental plan is not accepted. It’s also easy to get a dental plan fee schedule at your dentist’s office. This will make you privy to their summary of fees for everything.

Choosing Dental Insurance

Dental insurance is sometimes offered by an employee, or you can sign up independently and pay premiums. It’s a lot like personalized health insurance and you can opt between dental indemnity insurance, a dental health maintenance organization (DMOs), or a dental preferred provider organization (PPO). Unlike dental plans, there are deductibles sometimes and a yearly maximum to consider. You will need to consider co-pays here. You will also need to fill out an insurance claim form every time you visit the dentist.

Your insurance pays your dentist the full or partial fee until you reach your annual maximum limit. Employers also use Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs). There are no maximum limits for benefits here. You are expected to pay predetermined copay here for every visit with the HMO.

Your dental PPOs include a deductible and a yearly benefit maximum. It also covers you partially for each visit. These partial percentages are calculated according to whether your dental work is basic, preventive, or extensive. Your basic procedures include root canals or fillings. Preventive visits comprise cleanings, scaling, and bitewing x-rays. Extensive work would include implants or having a crown placed. Some dental PPOs will also allow you partial benefits with a dentist who is not part of your service provider network.