Statistics report that over half of the population of the United States is not covered by dental insurance or some type of dental plan. The statistics go to show that not everyone is taking advantage of the enormous savings that result from dental plans. And in a world of lower and middle class domination, perhaps more should indeed pay more attention to the benefits of dental plans.
Dental Insurance Vs Non-Insurance Dental Plans
Typically there are two categories of dental plans: those that are typical insurance plans, and those that aren't. As dentists have come to find, there is a better favor for the non-insurance counterparts, since there is less paperwork involved.
Insurance plans are commonly restricted in what they pay, how they pay, and for what reasons they pay. Insurance plans also demand that those taking advantage of the cost cuts must pay deductibles. These deductibles, which are usually a fixed rate, help the insurance company's hold onto their money and discourage any gaming of the system.
On the other hand, non-insurance dental plans are much easier to work with. They, on average, cut around one third of the total cost. There is little to no paperwork to fill out, and best of all, there is not deductible to pay. Dentists prefer this method just as much as patients do, due to the large cut in paperwork.
The only drawback to non-insurance dental plans is that they are only present in participating dentist offices. For this reason, you'll be hard pressed to find a dentist at random who participates in non-insurance dental plans. This is compared to insurance dental plans, which should be taken virtually everywhere there is a dentist's office.
Smart Choices in Dental Plan Shopping
If you're looking to purchase a dental plan, be sure to shop around. The majority of those who do have dental insurance tend to spend more than they should. To avoid this, there are a few tips that can get patients by with spending less money both on dental insurance and dental bills.
After ensuring that you have looked at several different plans, and have found the best cost saving option, there is a little verification work to be done. First ensure that the dental plan being offered is guaranteed- meaning that the insurance company won't reverse a decision for menial reasons. Also get a quote on around how much one would save on a specific procedure and ask about the deductible that insurance companies demand patients pay.
Also be aware of dental plans that are offered from foreign sources (usually outside of one's own state). These plans may indeed be legit, but there is slightly more risk that is run as a result of the distance. Don't let a good dental plan get away because the provider is located in another state, however but be cautious nonetheless.
Final Thoughts on Dental Insurance
Dental insurance, families will find, can save a large amount of money over the course of a few years. The money saved in high-cost operations and checkups is more than worth the fees paid. But to ensure the best plan, follow the fore mentioned steps to make sure you're making money in the long run- not losing it.
After all, you buy a dental insurance plan to save money, not spend it.
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