Dental Insurance
Does one need Dental Insurance? This question is asked by us in
parlance with any kind of insurance. Well, insurance is a tool
that offsets financial losses due to accidents or incidents or
unforeseen circumstances. With this in view, insurance is always
advocated but if one is young and healthy and doesn't need to
visit a dentist more than twice a year, dental insurance will
not be a requirement, since the premium for such insurance may
be more than the annual tooth maintenance bill.
People with a turbulent dental history are advised to purchase
dental insurance or join a discounted dental plan for the simple
reason that dental bills can turn out to be very steep. Millions
of Americans are undergoing root canal and cavity procedures
despite the fluoride in drinking water. Dental health in the USA
has not been of very high standard over the decades. Dental
health depends upon a variety of factors including dental
hygiene, stress, personal eating habits, nutrition etc.
The programs of dental coverage available are Indemnity Plans,
Preferred Provider Plans, HMO Plans and Discount Plans
Dental Indemnity Insurance Plans
These are normal, traditional insurance coverage plans where you
get a percentage of your dental bills covered for a monthly fee
or premium. Normally a indemnity plan covers 100% of preventive
services, 80% of restoration services and 50% of major treatment
like orthodontics.
Dental Preferred Provider Plans
These plans cost an average of $40 per month and give you highly
discounted rates of dental procedures within the specified
network. A few benefits are available outside the network also.
These plans are regulated by state insurance departments and
fall in the insurance category.
HMO Dental Insurance
These insurance plans are also known as capitation plans. They
operate like Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO). These are
also regulated by state insurance department and cost between
$20-$40 a month.
Dental Discount Plans
Discount dental plans are like clubs where you get the best
deals when you show your membership card. These are again
network based. They give best value to individual and family
memberships. This membership is only purchasing a discounted
access to a network dentist and is not considered insurance.