Dental Insurance Articles
Maintaining Your Dental Health Without Employer Insurance
2010-05-27
Maintaining Your Dental Health without Employer Insurance
It doesn't cost anything to smile but maintaining those pearly whites can be challenging without employer insurance. One important benefit that is no longer offered by many employers is dental insurance. In these hard economic times, many people are not only faced with impending layoffs but also the possibility that the work benefits they have today will be gone tomorrow. Maintaining your dental health is an important part of maintaining your overall health. So, what options are out there when you don't have dental insurance through your employer? Take a look at some options below.
Purchase Dental Insurance Directly from an Insurance Provider
While it's true that major health insurance providers offer group insurance to companies, many also give individuals the option of purchasing different kinds of coverage from them directly with dental insurance being one of them. These dental plans work much like your basic HMO or PPO in that one plan may require you to visit a dentist in their network while the other will allow you to go to a dentist of your choosing. Preventive care usually includes: cleaning and x-rays, basic care: fillings, simple extractions and root canals with major services such as crowns and dentures.
Finance Your Dental Plan
Obtaining a loan from a financial institution to pay for medical expenses such as dental work is not unheard of today. These lenders offer loans that can be used at any medical facility. In many cases, you can apply for financing from one of these lenders at your dentist office. The dental staff will be able to fill out an application for you over the internet with some individuals receiving instant approval after a credit check. Once approved, the loan amount is paid directly to your dentist office and repayment of your loan is made to the finance company.
Check out Your Local Dental College
Checking with your local dental college is certainly not a bad idea when your dental health is on the line. More often than not, dental colleges offer the same services that you would find in a regular dentist office but without the hefty costs. Treatment is severely discounted mainly due to the fact that their staff is primarily made up of those learning the trade but certified dental professionals are still on hand to ensure a job well done.
As you can see, not having dental insurance through your employer does not have to spell disaster for your dental health. Being proactive in searching for the best options for you and your family is key when you are responsible for your own coverage. Cheers to a healthy smile!