Dental Plans - 4 Ways Of Finding Affordable Dental Care In A Recession
Seeing a dentist is something that should be a higher priority for many people. The fact of the matter is that only 3 out of every 10 individuals in the USA have any type of dental plan. This number doesn't look to change in the near future either, with a tough economy that's on the verge of recession and over 40 million people without any regular health care, most people have no choice but to put their oral hygiene on the backburner. Unfortunately, in many situations, there's simply no way to continuously ignore a toothache or teeth that are rotted to the point where you won't smile anymore. These are things that simply can't be avoided any longer. So what are your options? Here are 3 things that might help you.
Dental Insurance
Dental insurance is maybe the most mis-understood of any type of healthcare. Some people are under the impression that they can purchase dental insurance today and be immediately covered for any conditions that they may have had in their entire lifetime. This is absolutely inaccurate. Some people are surprised when the dentist tells them that the problems with their teeth are pre-existing conditions and that their dental insurance won't pay for it. This means that you'll be paying 100% of the costs yourself with no help from the insurance company.
Most policies provide a certain amount of protection if you buy it BEFORE anything major happens. But that's it. Also, a standard policy won't cover orthodontics (braces) and have annual coverage limits, such as a maximum amount payable of $1000 per individual and $2500 per family.
Discount Dental Plans
Discount dental plans don't provide "coverage" as an insurance policy does. This plan is only designed to provide you with professional care at a reduced price. Some of these providers offer savings of 10-60%, depending on what you need to have taken care of. There aren't any premiums or co-pays like you would have with a traditional policy. You just make one payment which covers the entire year, and then you're allowed to visit dentists and specialists within the "network" of the plan. You will get discounts on pre-existing conditions, braces, dentures and more.
The one thing, that could be challenging for some people, about a dental discount plan is that you must pay in full at each appointment. An example of this might be an individual that hadn't been seen in a long time so they needed an in-depth check-up, x-rays, cleaning, etc. They might save up to 60% off of these costs, but they'd have to pay in full at the time they were seen. If you have money put aside for dental care then this is could be a good option for you.
Colleges And Universities
Some colleges and universities have dental schools where they offer reduced rates on the most basic dental care needs. These are mostly simple things like extractions, cleaning, fillings, etc. The work is performed by students which are supervised by licensed professionals. This is great way to save a few dollars, as long as you aren't in need of anything major performed. Most of the time these services are limited so you should take advantage of them any time you can. You should check and find out what's available in your area.
Dental Financing
Another option you might consider is to find a dentist that offers financing. This can become expensive quick because in most cases you'll have to pay full price plus interest, but if it's an emergency then it's something you may want to consider.
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