Premium Dental Insurance: What it is and Why You Need it

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about dental insurance until you need it. But when that time comes, having the right coverage can make all the difference—especially if you have a complex dental issue or need extensive work done. That’s where premium dental insurance comes in. In this article, we’ll break down what premium dental insurance is, how it differs from other types of dental insurance, and why it’s worth considering for yourself or your family.

What is Premium Dental Insurance?

Premium dental insurance is a type of dental insurance that provides more comprehensive coverage than standard dental insurance plans. It typically includes benefits such as higher annual maximums, lower deductibles, and coverage for more complex procedures like orthodontics and implants. Premium dental plans also tend to have more provider options, allowing you to choose from a larger network of dentists and specialists.

One thing to keep in mind is that premium dental insurance tends to be more expensive than standard plans. However, if you anticipate needing extensive dental work in the future, the higher premiums may be worth it in the long run. Premium dental insurance can save you money on out-of-pocket costs and help you get the care you need without breaking the bank.

How Does Premium Dental Insurance Differ from Other Types of Dental Insurance?

There are several types of dental insurance available, each with its own set of benefits and limitations. Here’s a quick overview of how premium dental insurance differs from other common types of dental plans:

Standard Dental Insurance

Standard dental insurance plans typically cover preventive care like cleanings and checkups, as well as basic procedures like fillings and extractions. They often have lower annual maximums and higher deductibles than premium plans. While they can still provide valuable coverage, they may not be sufficient if you need more extensive work done.

Discount Dental Plans

Discount dental plans are not insurance, but rather a way to save money on dental care. You pay a yearly fee for access to discounts on certain services from participating providers. These plans can be a good option if you don’t anticipate needing a lot of dental work, but they don’t provide the same level of coverage as insurance plans.

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans

PPO plans are a type of dental insurance that allows you to see any dentist you like, but you’ll typically pay less if you choose a provider within the plan’s network. PPO plans tend to have higher annual maximums than standard plans, but they may not cover as many procedures as premium plans.

What Are the Benefits of Premium Dental Insurance?

Now that we’ve covered the basics of what premium dental insurance is and how it differs from other types of coverage, let’s explore some of the specific benefits of this type of plan:

Expanded Coverage

As we mentioned earlier, premium dental insurance typically covers more procedures than standard plans, including orthodontics, implants, and other complex treatments. This expanded coverage can be especially valuable if you have ongoing dental issues or need extensive work done.

Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs

While premium dental insurance may have higher premiums than other plans, it can also save you money in the long run by reducing your out-of-pocket costs. With higher annual maximums and lower deductibles, you may end up paying less overall—even for more expensive procedures.

More Provider Options

Premium dental plans tend to have larger networks of providers than other plans, giving you more options when it comes to choosing a dentist or specialist. This can be especially helpful if you live in a rural area or have specific needs when it comes to dental care.

Peace of Mind

Finally, one of the biggest benefits of premium dental insurance is simply the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re fully covered. You won’t have to worry about unexpected bills or surprise expenses, which can make a big difference when it comes to your overall well-being.

FAQ

Question
Answer
How much does premium dental insurance cost?
The cost of premium dental insurance varies depending on the plan and your individual needs. On average, you can expect to pay between $50 and $100 per month for individual coverage.
What procedures are typically covered by premium dental insurance?
Premium dental insurance plans often cover a wide range of procedures, including orthodontics, implants, and other complex treatments. They may also cover cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening or veneers.
Are there any downsides to premium dental insurance?
The main downside of premium dental insurance is that it can be more expensive than other types of plans. However, if you anticipate needing a lot of dental work or have ongoing issues, the higher premiums may be worth it in the long run.
How do I know if premium dental insurance is right for me?
It’s important to evaluate your individual needs and dental history before deciding on a plan. If you have ongoing dental issues or anticipate needing extensive work done in the future, premium dental insurance may be a good option for you.

Conclusion

Premium dental insurance can provide more comprehensive coverage and peace of mind when it comes to your dental health. While it may be more expensive than other plans, the benefits can be worth it if you need extensive work done. If you’re considering premium dental insurance, be sure to do your research, evaluate your individual needs, and compare plans to find the one that’s right for you.