Health insurance plans usually do not cover the cost of dental treatments, so people must buy a separate policy to care for their teeth. While the market has many dental plans, choosing one can be tricky. Before deciding, individuals must consider several factors, like coverage limits and policy terms. Avoiding these seven common mistakes when choosing a dental plan can simplify the process and ensure one gets a good deal!
Ignoring the basics
One of the most common mistakes people make is ignoring the basics. What should my dental plan cover? Knowing the answer can prevent individuals from signing up for policies that cost too much but offer little value. Unlike health insurance, dental plans do not cover many expensive treatments. Instead, they tend to follow a 100-80-50 coverage breakdown:
- 100% of preventive care coverage (like exams, X-rays, and cleanings)
- 80% coverage of basic procedures (like fillings, root canals, and extractions)
- 50% of major procedures (like crowns, bridges, and implants)
Any other expense must be paid out of pocket. However, many policies have an annual out-of-pocket maximum, which can help lower the cost of treatment.
Rushing through enrolment
Far too often, people blindly choose the plan their friends and family recommend and rush through the enrolment process. However, this is a mistake because everyone has different dental needs. So, one must carefully read the policy’s features and scan the fine print before signing up. Comparing policies is also essential. Individuals may consult a dentist to estimate how much it would cost them to maintain good oral health. They can then use that estimate to compare plans and choose the best one. Those with a preferred doctor, clinic, or hospital may also want to check for in-network coverage for the selected policy. Skipping this step and rushing the process can cause one to pay extra for dental care.
Forgetting to ask for group coverage
Before buying a private dental insurance plan, one should check if they are eligible for group coverage. Group coverage programs usually have several benefits, one of the most important being a lower premium. Those working at larger firms may also get coverage with employer-sponsored plans. Individuals should consider these options, as they may be cheaper than an individual dental plan.
Undermining a preventative maintenance plan
Many people ignore preventative maintenance plans and opt for other policies with specialized coverage, which could be a huge mistake. Regular preventive maintenance at the dentist’s clinic can help keep one’s teeth in good shape. It can prevent oral problems from worsening to the extent that the individual needs expensive procedures, like root canals and implants.
Failing to research the plans
All dental plans look the same but aren’t. Each offers different tiers, add-ons, and booster packs, so understanding them is essential. For instance, some policies may cover preventive work from the beginning of the term. However, they may have a one-year waiting period before coverage for major procedures, like dental implants, crowns, gum disease treatment, and dentures, begins. One can find such details in the fine print.
To find the best policy for one’s current and future needs, one should:
- Start by shopping around at various dental insurance providers.
- Compare plans to find one that fits well within the budget.
- Read the fine print, as providers may have different terms, conditions, inclusions, and exclusions that impact the policy’s usability.
Hiding medical history
Sometimes, people may feel tempted to leave out a part of their medical history, thinking this would get them cheaper premiums. However, it could be a big mistake in the long run, as insurance providers deny claims, citing undisclosed medical information. So, individuals should always provide a clear medical history when signing up for any policy. It helps get a realistic estimate of the premiums and other costs involved.
Choosing the cheapest provider
Another mistake people often make is just picking the cheapest insurance provider. While this may sound like a cost-effective idea, it isn’t. Cheap plans do not offer comprehensive dental coverage or provide access to skilled, high-quality dentists. So, price should not be the only deciding factor when choosing a dental insurance provider. Individuals should also consider other aspects, such as coverage, in-network doctors, and add-on benefits.
