The good news is that Americans have more choices than ever to help cover the expense of dental services. Though many people with dental benefits get them through their employers, individual plans are also available through the Health Insurance Marketplaces established by the Affordable Care Act. It’s essential to understand all your options when selecting the right dental plan for you and your family. Not all employers offer dental benefits. If you’re struggling to find affordable dental care, here are some places to start.
Massachusetts Dental Insurance Resources
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers resources for applying for dental insurance and accessing dental and hygiene clinics that provide reduced-cost oral health care.
Health Connector Marketplace
The Health Connector is a state-based health insurance marketplace that makes shopping for affordable health and dental coverage easier for individuals, families, and small businesses in Massachusetts. It offers plans from the state’s leading insurers that have been awarded the state’s Seal of Approval, so you can be sure the plan you choose meets both state and national coverage standards.
What to Consider When Selecting a Dental Plan
Don’t let confusion over dental costs stand in the way of good oral health. Use the resources below from the American Dental Association to learn more about options for covering the expense of dental services:
What Does a Dental Plan Cover?
Even for covered services, most dental plans share the costs of treatment with you. If you have benefits through your work, the amount the plan covers is determined by how much your employer contributes to the plan. If you have an individual plan, the terms will be spelled out in a contract. Although you may be tempted to make dental care decisions based on what your plan will pay, the least expensive option is not always the healthiest option. Before committing to a plan, make sure you understand how you and your plan share costs.
Under in-office or dental membership plans, patients pay the doctor or dental office a fixed amount of money on a monthly or annual basis. In return, the patient generally receives preventive services at no charge, with other procedures offered at a discounted fee.
Common Dental Treatment Terms
When it comes to dental treatments, it might sometimes sound like your dental benefit plan is speaking a different language. If your dentist mentions these terms, you can ask questions; however, your dental plan documents may not provide the answers you need immediately. This guide outlines terms frequently used in dental benefit plans, as well as the more common terms that non-dentists typically use when discussing them.