Individual Dental Insurance

[roger_lockless]

I'm an agent in Maryland. I've never really messed with dental insurance, but I'm trying to help a co-worker whose daughter is going to need some orthodontic work. The work policy doesn't cover this, and I'm having trouble finding any stand-alone policies or discount programs that will assist with orthodontia. Is this just a Maryland thing, or are there not really options for individuals to seek out their own orthodontic coverage? Is there anyone out there more familiar with dental insurance who can clarify this for me or possibly even point me in a direction?

 

[arnguy]

Take a look at Dominion Dental. They may have a plan covering orthodontia, but there may be a waiting period. Usually there are substantial limitations on the amount of the coverage.

 

[leevena]

Based on what I have read here, she may very well not be able to get a plan. She may be able to negotiate a discount and then pay if off over time. A few years ago when my child needed ortho, my plan did not cover it. I went to dentist and asked for a cash price, which was a discount off of his normal charge. We paid for it, with cash, that was deposited in our FSA plan.

 

[VolAgent]

"Hi, GEICO? Yes, I just wrapped my car around a telephone pole. I'm looking to get some car insurance to cover this, can you help?"

That is the equivalent of every call you'll get for dental insurance. There is a reason its expensive and doesn't pay for anything, people only buy it when they know they'll need work.

Tell your friend to just stick the money in a savings account, he'll come out about the same.

 

[arnguy]

So true, Vol!

 

[GreenSky]

The DHMO plans that include ortho have no waiting period.

The drawback is that the copays are still relatively high, and your dentist smells of onion and garlic.

Rick

 

[AllenChicago]

The DHMO plans that include ortho have no waiting period.

The drawback is that the copays are still relatively high, and your dentist smells of onion and garlic.

Rick

I don't know why, but the "Garlic and Onions" comment gave me a big laugh. Are you saying that the HMO Dentists are of lower caliber?

OnTopic:.. The DentaSaver stand-alone plan has been very popular at our agency. It grants immediate substantial discounts on all services via the AETNA dental network. $10.00 @ mo for an individual or $20.00 for a family. (ref: Dentsaver Home )

-AC

 

[jbage007]

This story reminds me about why dental insurance is not really insurance at all but rather, just a social welfare product. Most people only think about buying it (on their own) when they know they are going to need it and then they want someone else to help foot the bill.

People have a distorted view of what insurance really is.

Except for life insurance I guess.

 

[DS4]

Prospect: "I'm looking for dental coverage that would include orthodontia".

Translation: "Will any of your insurance companies give me free money?".

 

[arnguy]

That's a big help, Ronnie!