Dental Insurance Cost Per Month: Everything You Need to Know

Dental insurance is an important aspect of healthcare. It can help you save on costs for routine checkups, dental procedures, and other related expenses. However, the cost of dental insurance per month can vary depending on several factors. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about dental insurance cost.

Factors Affecting Dental Insurance Cost

The cost of dental insurance per month can be influenced by several key factors. These include:

Factor
Description
Geographical Location
The cost of living and healthcare services in each state can affect the cost of dental insurance.
Age
Older individuals may have to pay more due to higher chances of dental problems.
Family Size
The number of dependents on the plan can affect the monthly cost.
Plan Type
The type of dental plan you choose can greatly affect the cost. Basic plans with limited coverage may cost less than comprehensive plans.

Now that we’ve covered the factors that can influence the cost of dental insurance per month, let’s explore each one in more detail.

Geographical Location

The cost of living and healthcare services vary from state to state. This means that the cost of dental insurance can also differ depending on your location. For example, living in New York City may cost more than living in a rural area. Dental insurance providers may also charge more in areas with a higher cost of living or where healthcare services are more expensive.

To better understand how location affects the cost of dental insurance, let’s take a look at some examples. In California, the average cost of dental insurance per month is around $50 to $80 for an individual. Meanwhile, in Florida, the average cost is around $30 to $45 per month for an individual. These numbers can change depending on the type of plan and the specific location.

Age

As we age, we become more prone to dental problems such as gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss. For this reason, dental insurance providers may charge more for older individuals. They may also limit coverage for certain procedures or include waiting periods for older policyholders.

The average cost of dental insurance per month for an individual aged 50 or older is around $55 to $105. Meanwhile, the average cost for an individual under 50 is around $35 to $60 per month. The cost can vary depending on other factors such as family size and plan type.

Family Size

The number of dependents on the plan can greatly affect the cost of dental insurance per month. Generally, adding more dependents to the plan will increase the monthly premium. Some dental insurance providers offer family plans that can cover up to four or five people.

For example, a basic family dental plan may cost around $120 to $180 per month. Meanwhile, a more comprehensive family plan can cost around $200 to $400 per month. These costs can vary depending on the location and the number of dependents on the plan.

Plan Type

The type of dental plan you choose can greatly affect the monthly cost. Basic plans with limited coverage may cost less than comprehensive plans with extensive coverage. Typically, dental insurance plans are divided into four categories: preventive, basic, major, and orthodontic.

  • Preventive: This type of plan covers routine checkups, cleanings, and X-rays. It may also provide coverage for basic procedures such as fillings and extractions.
  • Basic: This type of plan includes coverage for preventive services as well as more extensive procedures such as root canals and crowns.
  • Major: This type of plan includes coverage for preventive and basic services as well as major procedures such as bridges, dentures, and implants.
  • Orthodontic: This type of plan includes coverage for braces and other orthodontic treatments.

As you can see, the more coverage a plan provides, the higher the cost may be. The average cost of dental insurance per month for a basic plan is around $20 to $40 for an individual. Meanwhile, the average cost for a more comprehensive plan can be around $50 to $100 per month for an individual.

FAQs

Is it worth getting dental insurance?

Yes, dental insurance can be worth it if you want to save on healthcare costs. Routine checkups and cleanings can help prevent major dental problems down the line. Dental insurance can also provide coverage for more extensive procedures that can be costly without insurance.

What is the average cost of dental insurance per month?

The average cost of dental insurance per month can range from $20 to $100 or more depending on several factors such as location, age, family size, and plan type. Basic plans with limited coverage can cost less than comprehensive plans with more extensive coverage.

What does dental insurance typically cover?

Dental insurance typically covers routine checkups, cleanings, and X-rays. It may also provide coverage for basic procedures such as fillings and extractions, as well as more extensive procedures such as root canals and crowns. Some plans may also cover orthodontic treatments such as braces.

Can I get dental insurance outside of my employer?

Yes, you can purchase dental insurance outside of your employer. There are several dental insurance providers that offer individual and family plans. You can also compare plans and prices online to find the best option for your needs.

What should I consider when choosing a dental insurance plan?

When choosing a dental insurance plan, you should consider factors such as location, age, family size, and plan type. You should also compare costs and coverage options to find the best plan for your needs. It’s important to read the fine print and understand what is covered and what is not covered under each plan.

Conclusion

Dental insurance can be a valuable investment for your health and your finances. The cost of dental insurance per month can vary depending on several factors such as location, age, family size, and plan type. By understanding these factors and comparing plans, you can find the best option for your needs and budget.