August 9, 2017
Buying dental insurance has become just as confusing as health insurance has, thanks to the many changes that came with healthcare reform and the Affordable Care Act. In the past, you could essentially select any carrier at any point of the year, compare coverage options and simply choose the one that best suited your needs.
Today, though, things are a bit more complicated. That doesn’t mean you’ll have to go without coverage for your pearly whites. In this article we’ll look at some of the things to consider if you’re currently without dental insurance, and how to go about getting signed up in time for that next trip to the office.
Limited Carriers During Closed Enrollment
There are limited choices on who you can buy dental coverage from after the fixed Open Enrollment period has ended. Some of the bigger names like Blue Cross Blue Shield only offer plans during Open Enrollment, though other well-known carriers like Humana and Delta sell coverage all year. As with most plans, there's typically a wait time or delay before coverage becomes effective, so keep that in mind if you’re dealing with a serious issue.
Be Sure Your Dentist is In Network
If you do end up purchasing a dental coverage plan during closed enrollment, it is strongly advisable to visit the carrier’s website to ensure that your dentist, orthodontist or oral surgeon is within their network. And even if they do, in fact, list it on the website, it doesn’t hurt to make a phone call and verify this before showing up for treatment. Networks change rapidly in the new healthcare system, and website provider listings aren’t always 100% spot-on.
Beware of Dental Insurance Scams
Anyone who turns on a TV has undoubtedly seen a commercial for some unknown outfit offering full coverage dental insurance at rock bottom rates. Now, we’re not saying that every one of these organizations is a scam, but scams do exists. So before impulsively rushing to the phone, look the company up to see if others are complaining. And remember that old adage, if it sounds too good to be true… you know the rest.
Get a Free Quote or Compare Dental Insurance Plans
If you’re in Illinois or the Chicagoland area and need a dental insurance plan you can rely on, Premier Financial Insurance is here to help. There are no fees for our consultation or enrollment services and we can show you a full offering of options from trusted carriers.
To learn more or speak with one of our staff agents immediately, call Premier in Lisle toll-free at 800-369-0287, or write to us through our website’s secure contact page.