How dental plans work
Most adult health plans don't include dental, so many people add a separate dental plan. Dental plans usually group care into three levels.
| Care | Examples | Typical coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Preventive | Cleanings, exams, X-rays | Often covered at the highest level |
| Basic | Fillings, simple extractions | Partly covered |
| Major | Crowns, bridges, root canals | Covered at a lower level, often after a waiting period |
What to look for
- Waiting periods. Some plans make you wait months before covering basic or major work.
- Annual maximum. The most the plan pays in a year. After that, you pay the rest.
- Network. Whether your dentist accepts the plan.
Vision coverage
Vision plans usually cover a yearly eye exam and give you an allowance toward glasses or contact lenses. Compare the exam copay, the frame and lens allowance, and which eye doctors and stores are in network.
For kids
Marketplace health plans must include pediatric dental and vision coverage, either in the health plan or through a separate dental plan. Davis checks how your family's plan handles it before you add anything extra.
Common questions
Can I buy dental insurance without a health plan?
Yes. Stand-alone dental and vision plans can be bought on their own.
Will a dental plan cover work I need right away?
Preventive care is often covered right away, but basic and major work may have waiting periods. Davis can help you compare.
Is vision included in my health plan?
Adult vision usually isn't. Pediatric vision is an essential health benefit on Marketplace plans.
