Are you having dental problems but can’t afford to go to a dentist? You are not alone. Not having access to dental care is the biggest cause for the lack of oral care in the US. Publicly financed reimbursement programs often limit or don’t even cover dental care for adults.
One option available to help you get the dental care you need is dental financing. Continue reading to learn why dental savings plans may be a good choice.
What’s the Difference Between a Dental Savings Plan vs Insurance?
To begin with, dental savings plans aren’t the same as insurance. With a savings plan, the rate for your dental work is decided upon before you receive care. This negotiation takes place between your dental savings plan and your dentist.
Dental savings plans often charge an annual fee to be part of the plan. In some cases, you may receive a discounted rate for dental work. You don’t have a waiting period before you can have dental care.
There is no yearly maximum limit on dental charges or monthly fees. Not all dentists participate in these plans, so check with your dentist.
These savings plans often don’t cover preventative care. This means you will need to save your money to pay for the amount owed after your discount.
Dental insurance often offers two main plans. The basic version covers dental cleanings and X-rays. Comprehensive plans cover the same as the basic as well as root canals, crown, and bridges.
You must have access to obtain dental insurance. A premium is often charged each month. You may also have to wait up to one year for dental work beyond a cleaning.
What Is Dental Financing?
If the dental work you need, such as braces, exceeds your dental insurance, you may consider financing. First, get a detailed estimate of the expected charges from your dentist. Then find out how much your insurance will cover so you know the out of pocket amount.
Check your credit score. If it’s low or you have an unstable credit history, financing may not be an option.
Dentists that perform orthodontics or cosmetic procedures may use a third-party financing company. Often, you don’t have to pay anything upfront. You can choose low monthly payment plans or extended payment plans.
Is a Dental Savings Plan Worth It?
One of the biggest benefits of a dental savings plan is that you don’t have a waiting period. For some insurance plans, you must wait up to a year for major dental work.
Savings plans often cover cleanings, root canals, and crowns. Some plans even cover cosmetic procedures. You can also save between 15% and 50% from the start.
Are You Looking for Healthcare Coverage Options?
For dental care, you have the options of dental savings plans, dental financing, or insurance. If you would like help in deciding what’s best for you, FutureWise can help. We work to protect you from unexpected life events.
Our team works to determine the best choices for you now and in the future. We offer health, life, supplemental, disability, dental, and vision plans. We also work with small business groups, Medicare health and supplement plans, prescription plans and more.
Contact us today to ask questions and make an appointment.