Are you looking for a way to save on dental costs? Nobody wants to pay 100% of their dental bills out-of-pocket. Many options are available to help you save on your dental care costs – but what’s the best option for you?
More and more people are turning to dental discount cards. Regardless of how you currently pay for dental care, a dental discount card is worth consideration. Let’s take an in-depth look at how dental discount plans work.
What is a Dental Discount Plan?
Are you familiar with the American Automobile Association? A dental discount plan has the same basic structure. For an annual fee, plan members are offered discounts on a variety of dental procedures within a large network of participating dentists. The phrase “dental discount plan” is often used interchangeably with the phrase “dental savings plan.”
What Procedures are Covered?
The specific procedures covered will depend on the type of discount plan purchased and the specific procedures offered by the dentist. Generally, dental discount plans let you save on a wide variety of procedures. Both minor and major procedures often have significant discounts.
Unlike most dental insurance policies, dental discount plans often cover a variety of cosmetic procedures such as tooth whitening and gum contouring.
Discount plans also cover dental problems you had before you purchased the plan. Insurance companies often don’t cover pre-existing conditions such any current cavities or orthodontic needs. With a dental discount plan, everyone is accepted regardless of their current dental health status. Discounted relief can finally be available for your existing dental problems.
What Discounts are Available?
Savings range between 10% and 60%. The exact discount will depend on the type of procedure and the dentist’s customary fees.
With a dental discount plan, savings are applied instantly right at the dentist’s office. You simply present your membership card during your visit. There’s no paperwork to fill out or reimbursements to wait for.
Also, dental discount plans can be used as often as you like each year. Participating dentists will accept your dental discount card for every eligible procedure performed. This is typically a sharp contrast to an insurance policy. Dental insurance annual maximums can often limit your coverage, especially regarding major dental work.
Who Accepts Dental Discount Plans?
Dental discount plans are accepted by over 100,000 dental professionals across the country. Aside from general dentistry, the network also includes many specialists such as orthodontists, pediatric dentists and more.
Before being accepted into the network, all dental professionals must first pass a credentialing process. Each member must be appropriately licensed and qualified. Your existing dentist might be in the network already. The plan provider can help you determine available dentists near you. You can visit as many different in-network providers as you want to each year.
Are Dental Discount Plans a Type of Insurance?
No. Dental savings plans are different than dental insurance. Dental savings plans are often described as an affordable alternative to dental insurance. Unlike dental insurance, dental savings plans have no premiums, deductibles or co-pays.
Note that insurance policy rules prevent the use of both dental insurance and a dental discount plan for the same procedure. You can’t apply a membership discount if insurance coverage is also used. However, treatments can be coordinated by your dentist for maximum savings.
When are Discounts Available?
Almost instantly. Once you purchase a membership, processing takes about 72 hours. Then you’re free to start using your card for discounts. The lack of any significant waiting period means you can get the care you need right away.
Plus, the plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can purchase a plan, meet with a dentist, discuss your needs and have a clear understanding of how much you’ll save. If the plan doesn’t meet your needs, the membership costs will be completely refunded.
Is a Dental Discount Plan Right for Me?
If dental care costs are preventing you from getting the care you need, know that you do have options. While dental insurance can help you save, policies don’t always make financial sense for everybody. A dental discount plan lets you save on many of the specific procedures you need, without complicated paperwork or long wait times.
Great oral health doesn’t have to break the bank. No matter how you currently pay for dental care, consider using a dental discount plan to save big at the dentist’s office.
