DarrylVK
Expert
If you run the numbers, most dental discount cards are not worth it either.
If someone has an immediate need (such as a crown) the numbers might work but a dentist willing to take a discount card is just as willing to discount for cash payment. Which, if you read the disclaimer, the discounts are not applied if you can't pay at the time of service.
You can also find dentists that are not in network willing to work with you in exchange for cash if you ask.
I have sold Ameriplan's card for 10 years. The first 2 years my family & I saved over $3,000.00 without begging a dentist for a discount.
Early on I had a lady call me needing work done at an oral surgeons. The wanted about 150.00 just to examine her, which she did not have. We put her on our plan for $31.95 using a friends credit card. She went back to the same office & got taken care of for under a 100.00.
She called 3 times thanking me!
The dentist's were unwilling to cut her a deal, but they were willing to honor our contract. Real compassionate folks.