Nobody really knows how important having dental insurance is unless they don't have it.
It's one of those necessary evils in life.
If you are currently without it but are looking to get it, you should take a little time to compare dental insurance policies.
This will ensure that your needs are met, and just as importantly, you don't overpay.
Here are the things you should look at when you compare dental insurance.
1) Choice of dentists.
This is important to some, not important to others.
Often, the less expensive policies have limitations on the dentists who participate in their plans.
If going to a specific dentist is important to you, you must take this into consideration.
2) What's covered? Some plans are designed to only cover moderately priced procedures.
If you need to have emergency surgery or any other expensive procedure, the amount the plan will cover can be minimal.
Read the fine print here and take the time to learn how much each procedure will cost you out of pocket should you need to have them performed.
3) Drugs.
How much is the co pay for certain drugs or medicines associated with dental problems and conditions? These amounts can vary tremendously.
4) Premiums.
Of course you will compare the monthly or annual cost of the different policies, but don't forget to look at planned raises in rates.
Some policies have increased rates already planned and if you intend to stick with the coverage for a given amount of time, you will be charged these increased rates eventually.
5) Children.
Keep in mind that children tend to have more dental work done than adults.
When you compare dental insurance, find out how much the plan covers the cost of dental procedures common for kids, and find out what you will have to pay out of pocket.