I need to purchase dental insurance.?

My employer does not offer it. I have good teeth and just need the basic coverage. Is this typically expensive? And where do I go about finding it?

I need to purchase dental insurance.?
If you have good teeth and just want the basics you probably don't need any plan. A yearly cleaning and exam will cost you less without insurance.





However, if you need more you have three options with dental.





Insurance - Depending upon the policy: cost $30-$60 per month. $50 deductible, annual maximum of $750 - $1500, waiting period up to 18 months for major work and then you're paying 50% of the charges. Example - average cost for a root canal in my area is $829. With insurance you pay $414 after paying 18 months of premium (around $800 or $900). Advantage - you can use any dentist with most plans.





Discount plans - Cost - $5-$10 per month. No deductible, no annual maximum and no waiting periods. Also, hardly any dentists will accept the plan and when they do you MIGHT get a 10% discount, which is about the same discount you can get by paying cash. Example - average cost for a root canal in my area is $829. With discount plans you pay around $746.





Fee for Service discount plans - Cost $7-$15 per month. No deductible, no annual maximum and no waiting periods. Many dentist will accept the plan (check providers first before signing up with any plan). When you use the plan there is a set fee that the dentist will charge you. Example - average cost for a root canal in my area is $829. With fee for service plans you pay as little as $404.





I'm an insurance agent and my personal plan is the fee for service plan. I got mine here http://www.dpbrokers.com/default.aspx?lo... specifically the Aetna Dental Access plan but which one you get depends upon your area and comparing the fee schedule to find the best for what you need covered.
Reply:Individual dental insurance is not widely available because it is a money looser for the insurance company. You might be able to purchase a "basics only" plan through your state (I know Washington State offers one), but you could be better off putting money aside in the bank instead of paying premiums.





Insurance companies make money by taking in more in premiums than they pay out in benefits. While this may work in a group of insured people, it does not work with an individual.





Avoid internet-based dental discount plans such as Ameriplan. Please follow the link to see why this is not such a good idea.
Reply:You can try to call 1-800-332-7068; they offer coverage for all who apply. Please bear in mind that any dental insurance is meant to be a supplement, it is not like traditional medical coverage.





If your teeth are in good shape-- you keep up with somewhat regular hygiene appointments and are vigilant about brushing your teeth and tongue and flossing--you may consider paying out of pocket. Many dentists offer a discount for cash-paying patients.





For an individual, dental coverage can cost $65-$150 a month; depending, of course, on whether you opt for more complete coverage or add vision to your plan. There are many independant contractors who sell dental coverage, but I'd suggest calling the number above to start.





Good luck!
Reply:If you have medical, call them and see if they have dental programs. I found mines by talking with a few agents either by phone or in person (Blue cross, Kaiser, Delta Dental or do a search for dental plans). It was free and I was under no obligation to go w/them. Shop around. My dental cost $18 a month. Good luck!
Reply:You can check the internet for some dental plans that offered. They are basic plans that cover teeth cleaning and check ups with no co-pay sometimes. Look at the plan you might want, all the information is there.