There are a number of dental vision plans available. Some of the major medical carriers such as United HealthOne, Assurant, Humana and Anthem/Blue Cross Blue Shield all have dental plans available. There are also plans available from carriers specializing in dental.
Vision coverage is available from United Healthcare and VSP.
A few notes on dental coverage:
- All plans restrict benefits for basic (standard fillings, etc) and major services (oral surgery). Typically this restriction comes in the form of a waiting period before these benefits are covered. Typical waiting periods are 6 months for basic services and 12 months for major services.
- Preventive services and teeth cleaning are covered with no waiting period
- Orthodontia coverage is rare and when found is very limited
- There are yearly maximums ranging from $1000/person to $2000/person
In general, if you want dental coverage, you should purchase it before you need it.
Another options is a dental discount plan. These plans are not insurance as the provider of the plan does not pay out any benefits. What you are doing is purchasing access to a dental network with negotiated rates. The advantage of a discount card is there is no waiting periods involved so you have immediate access to the negotiated rates. I have a Dental discount card from Cal Star that provides access to the Aetna dental network. Here are some features:
Discount Dental and Vision savings and more!
Save 15% – 50% through the Aetna Dental Network.
Save 20% – 60% through the Coast to Coast Vision Network
Save 10% – 60% on Prescription Drugs
Save 15% – 60% through the Beltone Hearing Network
Save up to 60% off on Diabetic Testing Supplies
Savings on Vitamins
Access to a Medical Loan Program
Download CalStar discount dental brochure.