Taking care of your teeth and gums is essential for overall health, but dental care can be expensive which is more reason you need dental insurance.
From routine cleanings to more serious procedures like root canals and crowns, the costs can add up quickly. That’s where dental insurance comes
There’s Anold joke about why millionaires smile so much. It’s not because their wealth makes them happy — it’s because they can afford a decent dentist.
For the rest of us, it’s even less of a smiling matter when we crack a tooth, need veneers or find an abscess lurking painfully under a molar.
It’s an expensive business to get these things put right – even on the NHS.
But if we have the right dental insurance, the pain seems suddenly more bearable — particularly if we’ve chosen a policy that covers the bulk of the treatment costs.
So it’s surprising that so many people are careless with dental insurance, and either trust to luck or choose a policy that doesn’t cover their circumstances.
That’s why we’ve put together our top 5 reasons for buying adequate dental insurance. Read them carefully – and when your dentist next smiles, don’t let it be because you’re footing the bill.
5 good reasons for buying dental insurance
- It can cover 100% of NHS dental charges
If you’re one of the lucky people who is registered with an NHS dentist – and in some towns there are now no NHS dentists taking on new patients – insurance can help you keep your dental costs down.
NHS dental treatment isn’t necessarily cheap. As at the start of 2013, while a check up, polish and scale will cost you only £17.50, fillings cost from £48 and crowns and bridges can set you back £209.
So if you crack a tooth and need a crown, you could be faced with a large and unexpected bill. But with the right dental insurance, you won’t have to pay a penny more – many policies cover 100% of the cost of NHS dental appointments and treatments.
- It makes private dental care more affordable
Private dental care can be very expensive, especially if you need emergency treatment or regular dental work.
Depending on the policy you choose and the premiums you pay, dental insurance will cover you up to a certain annual cost limit – and sometimes sets limits on individual treatments, such as bridges.
And while most policies require you to contribute to your dental costs, they typically cover about three-quarters of dental fees – but be sure to shop around for the best deals.
After all, if you have an emergency, it’s reassuring to know a skilled private dentist is ready to help you, quickly and affordably.
- Dental insurance is flexible
Many dental insurance policies don’t tie you to a particular dentist, unlike most dental plans.
So you can choose different dentists to undertake different procedures if you prefer. Some policies also allow emergency treatment to be undertaken by other dentists while you’re away from home.
Better still, you can choose policies that not only cover you, but other family members as well – helping you make wider savings.
- You can pay low monthly premiums
Dental insurance needn’t be expensive – it could cost as little as a pound or two each week to get the dental cover you need.
- You can benefit from a no-claims discount
Got a dental insurance policy, but haven’t claimed on it? Then you may well qualify for a no-claims bonus, making subsequent cover even cheaper.
Choosing dental insurance
Dental insurance is often a very economical way of keeping your dental costs down, also giving you peace of mind that emergency treatment won’t break the bank – or could even cost nothing.
But it’s important to shop around for the best deals to suit your own situation. To qualify, your teeth will need to be in good repair (i.e. not requiring immediate treatment), and you will normally won’t be covered for accidents or emergencies for at least the first 30 days of cover.
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Also, be sure to choose cover that is adequate for your needs – insurers do cap the amount they will pay out over a year, so don’t choose the cheapest policy unless you’re confident it will cover your dental needs. And be sure to check other ways of covering your dental costs aren’t more appropriate.
With the right cover, though, you’ll be laughing – and your dentist will keep on smiling too, happy your insurance company is paying out on your behalf.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What is dental insurance, and why do I need it?
Dental insurance is a type of health insurance designed to cover a portion of the costs associated with dental care. It typically helps with routine checkups, cleanings, and more extensive procedures like fillings, crowns, and extractions. Having dental insurance can save you money by reducing out-of-pocket expenses for preventive care and major dental work.
Is dental insurance worth it even if I have healthy teeth?
Yes, dental insurance is beneficial even if you have healthy teeth. Regular checkups and cleanings, which are often fully covered, can help prevent costly issues in the future. Dental insurance also provides peace of mind knowing you are covered in case of unexpected dental problems, such as cavities or gum disease.
Can dental insurance help with expensive procedures like root canals or braces?
Yes, dental insurance can help cover a portion of the costs for expensive procedures like root canals and braces. However, coverage for orthodontic treatments like braces may not be included in all plans and might be offered as an optional add-on. Be sure to check if your plan covers these treatments before purchasing.
What is the difference between in-network and out-of-network dentists?
In-network dentists are part of your insurance provider’s network, and they have agreed to offer services at reduced rates. Visiting an in-network dentist will usually result in lower out-of-pocket costs. Out-of-network dentists are not contracted with your insurance company, so you may pay more for the same services if you choose them.
How much does dental insurance typically cover?
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive services (e.g., cleanings, X-rays) at 100%. Basic procedures like fillings or simple extractions are usually covered at 70-80%, while major procedures like crowns, bridges, or dentures may be covered at 50%. The exact coverage varies by plan, so it’s important to read your policy details carefully.
