Are Dental Discount Plans Worth It?

August 7, 2014

Getting regular preventive care from your dentist can save you a lot of pain, money, and hassle down the road. The expenses from the checkup as well as any necessary follow up treatment can quickly become quite costly. The good news is that there are a variety of insurance and dental plan programs that can relieve your financial burden while keeping your oral health in tip top shape.

If you’re weighing the differences between dental insurance and a dental discount plan, here’s what you need to know to make the decision that is right for you.

Dental Insurance vs. Dental Plans

Dental insurance works in the same way your medical insurance plan does. You may participate in an employer-sponsored plan, or you can consider purchasing private dental insurance on your own. Depending on your level of coverage, you may pay a bigger mandatory monthly premium but have a smaller copay — or you might exchange lesser coverage but have a bigger copay or deductible.

With dental insurance, you pay the premium regardless of whether or not you ever visit the dentist. This can add up to hundreds of dollars in wasted funds, particularly if you and your family members practice sound oral hygiene and suffer few dental problems. If you have serious issues that require multiple procedures or treatments, your coverage may max out — meaning you’re responsible for paying thousands of dollars out of pocket anyway.

With a discount dental plan, you only pay for the services you actually use on a reduced-fee basis. There are no deductibles, no maximums, and no waiting periods before you begin treatment. When you sign a Dental Savings Plan contract with AZ Family Dental, for example, you receive benefits from our Glendale, AZ office as soon as you register and pay for the program. You can register yourself and any eligible family members. Eligible family members include your legal spouse and any dependent children under the age of 23.Dental Savings Plan

Discount dental plan fees are also typically less than what you might pay under an employee-sponsored plan, yet the plan includes services that might not be covered at all under dental insurance. Fluoride treatments, and x-rays are common services covered under the plan that dental insurance typically charges extra for. A dental plan can also help you save on crowns, bridges, implants, fillings, extractions, and laser treatments.

Modern Dentistry, Done Right

If you’re interested in finding out more about dental insurance versus dental discount plans or the Dental Savings Plan offered by AZ Family Dental, call our Phoenix-area office for information today.

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